Overview
prat chasing is a mountain all cat parents have undoubtedly witnessed at some point . The scene start with a subtle tush twitching , only to escalate into a whirlwind of feline acrobatics as your cat-o'-nine-tails spirals and somersaults in a on the face of it badly - propose attempt to capture their own fundament .
This singular display sparks a multitude of question : Why do big cat trail their butt ? Is it a simple var. of play , or is there a more complex or serious account ? Let ’s unravel the reasons behind cat tail chasing and whether or not it ’s a cause for concern .
Do Cats Chase Their Tails?
While tail chasing is more commonly connect with weenie , cuspid are n’t the only 1 who indulge in these antics . kat also rent in this odd behaviour , although less frequently than cad .
rear end chasing is particularly predominant among kittens — grownup cat typically outgrow this behavior as they suppurate . If you find that your adult computerized tomography is ofttimes or obsessively give chase their shadow , it could indicate an underlying health or behavioral issue that requires treatment .
Why Do Cats Chase Their Tails?
The reasons behind tail chasing range from wide-eyed fun to potential wellness concerns . As a cat parent , it ’s authoritative to seek to understand why your quat is chasing their tail and control they receive the necessary support they need . Let ’s explore some of the most vernacular factors driving our feline friends to operate in this behavior .
#1: Play and Exploration
According to Heather Alvey , a certified true cat conduct consultant and founder ofFelidae Behavior Consulting , seat chasing is a normal kitten demeanor . Young cats are naturally curious and playful creature and may give chase their tail coat as a variant of ego - amusement and exploration . As computed tomography farm older , this behavior typically fades off , but may persist in some .
#2: Predatory Instincts
Cats arenatural - hold hunters , and their instinct ram them to stalk , pounce , and capture quarry . “ It ’s not unusual to see a kitten , young African tea , or even an honest-to-god cat who has a secure quarry drive chasing their tails , ” says Dr. Rachel Geller , Ed . D. , a attest cat behaviorist and laminitis ofAll Cats All the Time . Kittens , in particular , will chase jolly much anything that moves , she says .
These quarry instincts may become especially prevalent when there ’s a deficiency of stimulation or chance to engage in hunting activities , which brings us to our next potential cause .
#3: Boredom or Stress Relief
In some case , tail chasing may be a manifestation of tedium orstress in cats . Inactive , understimulated , or stressed feline might recur to tail assembly chasing to self - soothe , pass the prison term , or entertain themselves . “ Boredom and want of stimulation can also turn innocent backside chasing into a compulsive behavior , ” says Geller .
#4: Medical Concerns
While rear chasing can be attribute to toy or boredom , it ’s all important to be aware of potential health concerns that might be make this behavior . If your cat seems obsess with their tail or is biting it , they could be experiencing discomfort or pain . Some likely health issue that may result in rear end chasing admit :
How to Reduce or Stop Tail Chasing in Cats
casual tail chasing , especially in kittens , is usually harmless . However , if you notice that your computerized axial tomography is engaging in this behavior frequently or obsessionally , it ’s essential to see the root lawsuit and provide them with the necessary aid . Here are some suggestions for cat parent to curb excessive bottom chasing in cats :
1. Rule Out Medical Issues
First and foremost , refer with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health problems that might be stimulate your cat to chase their tail end . address medical concerns promptly can prevent further complications and ascertain your cat ’s wellbeing .
2. Provide Mental and Physical Stimulation
Because tedium and a want of arousal can chip in to tail chasing , keeping your cat engaged and entertain is imperative . Some ways to reach this include :
3. Create a Calm Environment
Since tension can be a impart broker to tail chasing in computerized axial tomography , creating a unagitated , predictable environment — with designated secure spaces for your cat to withdraw — can help assuage tenseness andanxiety . To promote relaxation , you could also consider usingcat pheromone diffusers , such as the Feliway Classic Calming Diffuser .
4. Redirect Your Cat’s Behavior
If your cat ’s fag end chasing is deemed to be a behavioural issue ( rather than a medical egress ) , Geller recommends distracting , disrupting , and redirecting your cat aside from compulsive tail chasing and toward a cocksure action — such as interactive play with a wand toy , as mentioned above .
After a play sitting with a verge toy , pay back your quat withfood , as cats expect to be able to use up what they caught and “ belt down , ” advocate Geller . “ The food at the end is a natural and instinctual signal to the big cat that the hunt is over — they ’ve been successful and it ’s time to relax or nap . ” Consistent redirection and confirming reinforcement can assist your cat establish new habits and decrease the oftenness of ass chasing .
5. Consult a Cat Behaviorist
If you ’ve ruled out aesculapian way out , taken steps to provide an piquant surroundings for your cat , and essay to redirect their behavior to no help , consider enlisting the aid of a professional cat behaviorist . “ A professional will be able to determine the rudimentary cause of the deportment and workplace with the pet parent on a doings alteration design , ” says Alvey .
Putting an End to Excessive Tail Chasing
Although occasional prat chasing is in all likelihood not a suit for concern , persistent tail chasing may signal an underlying issue . By addressing likely aesculapian problem , providing genial and physical stimulation , and creating a calm , wage environment , you may help your darling kitty overcome excessive tail chasing and enjoy a well-chosen , respectable sprightliness .
