Abnormal Eating Habits in Dogs
- Unusual eating habits, consuming objects non-food items, this problem, called Pica, is defined as the persistent chewing and consumption of non-nutritional substances that provide no physical benefit to the animal.
- This behavior can be a symptom of an underlying medical problem, such as nutritional deficiencies, or a behavioral problem, such as anxiety, boredom, or true compulsive behavior.
- Pica can lead to medical problems including poisoning, dental problems, and gastrointestinal obstructions.
Causes
- A nutrient lack or another medical issue
It is critical to rule out an underlying medical condition as the cause of pica. Some animals, for example, ingest soil when they are deficient in minerals.
- Boredom/lack of stimulation
Dogs will seek out their own pastimes and toys if they are not given enough exercise, mental stimulation, interactive toys, or social engagement. Dogs that aren't given adequate chew toys, for example, may gnaw on pebbles or wood, wearing down their teeth.
- Anxiety
Anxious dogs, such as those with separation distress, may channel their anxiety into odd eating behaviors.
- Teething
It's natural for puppies to chew on items to stimulate their gums when they're teething. They will chew inappropriate objects if appropriate chew toys are not given. While the majority of dogs do not eat the objects they chew, a few do. Dogs may acquire a continuous preference and habit for an object if the behavior is not diverted to appropriate toys.
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