Why Is My Cat Eating Cat Litter? 10 Vet-Reviewed Reasons

Cats often do things that leave us puzzled. Figuring out if their strange behavior is normal can be tough. When it comes to eating cat litter, it's not normal, and it's usually linked to a health problem that needs medical attention. Here are reasons why your cat might be eating cat litter and how to stop it.

The 10 Reasons Cats Eat Cat Litter

1. Pica

Pica means cats chew or eat non - edible things like cardboard, plants, soil, wood, and sometimes cat litter. It can be due to medical conditions like endocrine or gastrointestinal diseases, or parasitic infections, or it can be a behavioral problem.

2. Dietary Deficiency

Cats may eat cat litter if they lack nutrients in their diet. It's important to consult a vet and ensure they're on a high - quality diet with proper portions. Adjusting their diet might stop the litter - eating habit.

3. Anemia

Anemia, especially related to iron deficiency or deficiencies in riboflavin, vitamin B12, and niacin, can make some cats eat cat litter. Other signs are low energy, pale gums, and lethargy. Once the cat's health improves, the behavior usually stops.

4. Curiosity

Cats are curious. They might play with and taste cat litter out of interest. But if they keep eating it, it's likely not just curiosity.

5. Flavor

If cats like the flavor of their cat litter, which might be made of natural materials, try switching to a different type. You can also offer cat grass as an alternative.

6. Coprophagia

Coprophagia means cats eat their own feces. It often indicates other health problems like malnutrition, colitis, or dementia. See a vet if your cat does this.

7. Boredom

Bored or stressed cats may eat cat litter. Ensuring they get enough exercise, playtime, and mental stimulation can stop this behavior.

8. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism can make cats eat cat litter. Other signs are weight loss, increased drinking, and an enlarged thyroid gland, common in older cats.

9. Brain Tumors

Brain tumors, though rare, can affect a cat's behavior and increase hunger, especially in older cats over 10.

10. Intestinal Parasites

Some cats with intestinal parasites like worms may develop pica and eat inedible items. Treating the parasites usually stops the pica.

Is It Safe for Cats to Eat Cat Litter?

Eating cat litter is not safe. Some litters can cause intestinal blockages, especially clumping clay and silica litters. It's also unsanitary, leading to gastrointestinal problems.

How to Prevent Cats from Eating Cat Litter

First, take your cat to the vet as eating cat litter is often related to a medical issue. The vet may run tests and provide a treatment plan. If the cat still eats litter, try a different brand or type of litter. Also, play with the cat regularly to distract it.

Conclusion

Cats eat cat litter for various reasons, often due to health issues. See a vet if you notice this behavior. Ensure your cat has a healthy lifestyle with a nutritious diet, exercise, and mental stimulation to prevent such habits.

Featured Image Credit: Oleg Opryshko, Shutterstock