Why does my cat attack its own tail

Sometimes cats attack their tails and bite to the point of injury. This is a complex problem for which the cause may be difficult to determine. It may be due to illnesses or behavioral problems.

 

Why does my cat attack his tail?

Kittens may spin around and grab their tails when they discover they have tails... This is normal kitten behavior!

However, as an adult, it is not normal for a cat to attack its tail. Cats may even injure themselves and develop impressive wounds. Generally speaking, all repetitive behaviors in cats (repeated scratching of the neck, excessive licking, etc.) should be taken seriously.

A cat may first attack its tail if it has a health problem. Many causes are possible: anal gland infections, epilepsy, parasitic diseases, allergies, etc...

Behavioral problems can also explain why cats bite their tails (anxiety for example). The repetitive behaviors can be indicators of unhappiness in the cat, that the environment in which they live does not suit them, etc.

In particular, there is what is known as cat anxiety in a closed environment. This anxiety concerns cats who live exclusively indoors, in an environment with little stimuli. The environment is not adapted to the animal and this can result in abnormal behaviors such as tail attack behavior.

 

What should I do if my cat bites its tail?

We recommend that you consult a veterinarian to examine your cat and assess its health and behavior. A veterinarian specializing in neurology or dermatology may be needed for diseases.

If a behavioral disorder is identified, a behavioral veterinarian may be called in. Behavioral therapy is usually provided to make the cat feel comfortable in its environment. Medication may also be necessary.

In the case of anxiety in a closed environment, for example, the animal's environment will be enriched (cat trees, toys, scratching posts, etc.) and the anxiety will be treated (anti-stress food supplements, soothing pheromone diffusers, or even medication if necessary). Changes in the environment are sometimes enough to solve the problem.

 

Loving and educating your pet also means protecting it against the hazards of life. This is why we strongly recommend that you take out health insurance as soon as possible. This will save you astronomical veterinary fees in case of accident or illness.