How to Break Obsessive Behavior in Cats

Obsessive behavioris defined as an unwanted or destructive pattern of unending, compulsive actions. Obsessive behavior in cats can include licking, scratching, fighting and behavioral problems. Some types of obsessive behavior are caused by environmental stressors, while others are caused by underlying medical problems. For best results, consult a licensed vet to help you determine the best course of action for diagnosing and treating your cat̵7;s obsessive behaviors.

Instructions

    • 1

      Take your cat to your vet to rule out any physical or medical problems that may be promoting her obsessive behavior. For example, a cat that licks herself to the point of having raw skin patches may have a behavioral issue, but she may have an underlying skin disorder. Likewise, a cat that continually urinates outside of her litter box may have a kidney infection, which is serious, or she may not like the brand of litter you are using (which is serious in its own way -- get the cat her preferred litter!). Ruling out medical problems is the first step to identifying and breaking obsessive behavior in cats.

    • 2

      Try to pinpoint the specific obsessive behavior you observed and look for clues as to what is causing it. Cats often exhibit obsessive behavior if they feel stressed, have a change in their routines or are bored. Defining the cause of the behavior and its precipitating factors can help you focus in on successful techniques for breaking the behavior.

    • 3

      Distract your cat when obsessive behavior begins. Entice her to play with a feather stick or other favorite toy, or provide her with a treat or with lap time and other forms of attention. Giving the cat something other than her behavior and her boredom to focus on can break the obsessive cycle.

    • 4

      Deter your cat from obsessive behavior in a nonviolent manner, such as squirting the poor thing with a water bottle when behavior begins.

    • 5

      Remove your cat from the behavioral situation when possible. For example, if a cat regularly urinates in an area other than her litter box, pick her up when you see the action starting and move her to the appropriate place.

    • 6

      Eliminate behavioral triggers. For instance, if a cat always scratches the same chair, replace the chair with a scratching post. If she continually cries at birds outside a particular window, cover the window or keep the cat from entering that room.

    • 7

      Discuss sedation or therapy options with your vet if necessary. Sometimes cats with obsessive behavior benefit from short- or long-term therapeutic pheromones or anxiety-relieving medications.