Why do cats chase their tails

If severe enough, an infection may occur. Treatment usually consists of neutering the male cat and proper hygiene. This poorly understood but rare disease can affect cats of all ages and is caused by overactive nerve endings. This may lead to a tingling sensation in the tail or your cat being overly sensitive when touched. Cats with this issue may also have episodes similar to panic-like attacks where they run around wide-eyed and crazy for 20 to 30 seconds and then fall back asleep as if nothing happened.

Any abnormal behavior should be discussed with your veterinarian. Depending on the situation, a cat chasing their own tail can be absolutely normal. Those kitties that are extra playful or those that are bored from spending the day alone are more prone to tail chasing than others. Tail chasing in kittens is more common than in adults. An adult cat is more likely to continue tail chasing behavior if they did it as a kitten. An adult cat that has never chased their tail before and suddenly starts doing it should be a red flag that needs to be looked into.

Most health issues that cause tail chasing come with other observable signs you should look out for. If your cat suddenly starts to chase their tail, then examine them for fleas, injuries, infections, or anything out of the ordinary. You should also note any other odd behaviors such as a change in affection, appetite, or energy level. Playful tail chasing is one thing, but if your cat has started chasing and then biting their tail, be on the lookout for self-inflicted injuries and possible infections.

Always have injuries or bite wounds to the tail be looked at by a vet. Playful kitties are attracted to movement whether it be their tail or the tail of a feline roommate. If these kitties are on good terms, one cat may actually try to bait the other in with quick small flicks of the tail. This is all fine as long as both cats are on the same playful page. This can lead to damage. In these instances, take note of both cats' body language during the interaction.

Of course he is well aware that it is part of his body. That's why when cats finally wrestle down their own tail, they will start licking and grooming it. Cats make a lot of cute and silly antics. Chasing their own tail is definitely one of them.

However, there are a few cases where chasing their own tail could be a medical cause if the cat detects discomfort or irritation from their tail. In those cases, it is better to fully examine their tail and make sure everything is OK. You May Also Like. Gift Guide. Megan Thee Stallion. Viral Videos. Trader Joe's. Now You Know. Latest Dogs, Cats, and Other Pets. Customize Select the topics that interest you:. Pop Culture. Love and Sex.