Mental health disorder is one of the most common diagnoses in modern healthcare.
For example, a person who washes his hands too often, again and again, day and night, undoubtedly suffers from this disease. Freud defines it this way:
"The patient is involved in activities that give him absolutely no pleasure, but he is unable to stop them."
Cats can show similar symptoms, especially after stress. For example, a cat that was alone with its owners may show signs of mental illness after another cat is taken into the house.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder in cats
All cats, without exception, take care of their appearance, carefully licking themselves. But sometimes these actions look inappropriate. It happens that, being in a state of excitement or confusion, a cat suddenly begins to lick its paw or wash its face.
People and animals crave a safe and predictable environment, and their loss of control over the situation leads to stress. Under stress, the animal cannot control itself, and rhythmically repeated movements are aimed at distracting itself. Later, such behavior aimed at turning off consciousness will be observed during any period of strong arousal. However, scientists say that these repeated actions do not change the body's physiological responses to stress.
If unconscious behavior was manifested earlier, it often resumes later when the animal finds itself in stressful situations.
Cats most often lick and pull hair from areas located between the thighs and lower abdomen, and sometimes the damage is so severe that some parts of the body have to be amputated to save their lives. Unconscious behavior can come in many forms. For example, sucking wool and other types of tissue, as mentioned earlier, can be considered as one of the manifestations of obsessive states or as a form of diseases associated with hyperesthesia.
Treatment of neuroses in cats
Treatment of mental disorders consists of identifying and eliminating the causes of their occurrence. One possible way to treat it was to remove the source of stress. Another method is exactly the opposite: take countermeasures, i.e. try to train the cat without eliminating the source of stress. If the cause of the disease is boredom and the cat's desire for attention, provide her with an entertaining environment.
If your cat exhibits behavioral abnormalities, try to distract her attention by making her follow various commands, such as “Come!”, or teach her to jump up and sit on a chair on command. It will be difficult for her to lick herself while performing these tricks. The best thing, and most importantly, useful for you, would be to use the cat’s natural tendency to repeat actions and teach her to stroke not herself, but your underwear. If you teach a cat to iron clothes, you can be sure that you will be guaranteed a place in the most famous circus.
Suggestions for using various commands, of course, are most effective only when you notice deviations in behavior immediately. Later, unconscious behavior in cats will appear in response to any stress, and you will not be able to force her to give up bad habits. If the cause of the deviation in her behavior is not established or cannot be eliminated, then medications such as tranquilizers, progestins, anticonvulsants and others can help.
Cats, like people, can be susceptible to mental disorders, among which one of the first places is occupied by obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCS).
In fact, almost all of us have encountered similar forms of behavior. Nervous or stressed after some event, some begin to fiddle with items of clothing, bite their nails, turn a ring on their finger, put various inedible objects into their mouth, etc.
The essence of the problem
Much the same thing happens in cats. During times of severe stress, habitual rhythmic movements allow the animal to distract itself from the situation. You yourself have probably observed more than once how, having become agitated or confused, a cat suddenly, with an unexpected convulsive movement, begins to rub its face with its paw or lick its fur.
There is nothing wrong with the fact that this happens periodically, but if the stress is long-term, incessant, for example, the appearance of a baby or a new pet in the house, moving, etc., then, trying to calm itself down, the cat can no longer stop.
Neurosis in cats is insidious in that repeated movements themselves do not in any way change the physiological manifestations of stress in the body and do not help cope with it.
Thus, the problem is not solved, but attempts to be distracted, to get rid of it, become a problem themselves, because they persist even after the cause of stress is eliminated or the body has managed to cope with it. Therefore, it is very important to notice the symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder in a cat in time and take appropriate measures.
Symptoms of neurosis
We must remember that obsessive states always manifest themselves in repeated actions, often completely aimless.
Pointless movement
Movement is a completely normal need for an animal, but, as a rule, it has some purpose. Even the crazy running of a cat throughout the apartment, which we sometimes jokingly call “temporary insanity,” is nothing more than a manifestation of a playful form of behavior, and is completely normal.
But if the animal literally cannot find a place for itself, senselessly moves at a fast pace back and forth, and nothing attracts its attention, you should be wary.
Excessive licking
This is the most common symptom of neurosis in a cat, since self-care gives these animals satisfaction. However, with obsessive-compulsive disorder, a cat can lick the same place until complete hair loss and the appearance of serious wounds on the skin.
Most often, such wounds appear on the thighs and lower abdomen, and if they are not noticed in time, the wound surface may become infected and gangrene may occur. Cases of limb amputation in animals with ACS have been described in the practice of veterinarians.
Meowing “just because”
Cats meow to get our attention and get what they need. They associate this action with pleasant consequences, and when neurosis occurs, they perform it just like that, to calm themselves, just as many people begin to sing or talk out loud to themselves.
By the way, such meowing is often accompanied by restless behavior, and, of course, you need to find out if the animal has any diseases that cause pain and discomfort.
Chewing inedible objects
Many cats love to chew or suck wool and some other types of natural fabrics. There may be several reasons for this behavior. No special studies have been conducted, but there is an opinion that kittens weaned early from their mother, even when they become adults, thus compensate for the sensations obtained during breastfeeding.
It is quite logical to assume that such redirected behavior can be caused in animals by stress, becoming one of the symptoms of OCD. In any case, swallowed wool or threads pulled out of fabric can lead to serious health problems, which means you need to pay special attention to this.
Chasing the tail
This behavior looks funny, but it is the norm only at a very early age and for a short time. In all other cases, there is neurosis; in cats, tail chasing is considered one of the most striking signs of obsessive-compulsive disorder (though it is more common in dogs).
Hunting for invisible prey
But this symptom is typically feline. The cat rushes into empty space and performs actions in the air that are usual for hunting games or a real hunt, that is, waving its paws, pinning its ghostly prey to the ground and even chattering its teeth, trying to grab it.
Scientists cannot yet establish whether such behavior is accompanied by hallucinations, but it is certain that such forms of behavior have been observed in cats diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Since animals are individual, there can be a great variety of obsessive actions; we have listed only the most common ones. But all such actions have one common feature - prolonged, often painful repetition for the cat.
What to do if cats have neurosis?
At the first sign of obsessive behavior, try to distract the cat with play or affection. Following commands helps very well, if, of course, you have taught your pet at least one of them.
There is no need to engage in training during this period, but it has been proven with absolute certainty that this method works great in dogs as a distraction from unwanted behavior.
If ACS does appear, that is, you see that obsessive actions have become a habit, are repeated and last for a long time, and there are no longer any reasons for stress, then the help of a doctor is needed.
He will prescribe appropriate medication support, such as tranquilizers, progestins, anticonvulsants and other drugs. There is no need to be afraid of this, mental health is the same health as physical health, so under no circumstances should you trigger neurosis in cats.
Larisa Solodovnikova
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We know very little about the time of the appearance of the first domestic animals; there is practically no confirmed information about them. There are no legends or chronicles preserved about that period of human life when we were able to tame wild animals. It is believed that already in the Stone Age, ancient people had domesticated animals, the ancestors of today's domestic animals. The time when man got modern domestic animals remains unknown to science, and the formation of today's domestic animals as a species is also unknown.
Scientists assume that every domestic animal has its wild ancestor. Proof of this is archaeological excavations carried out on the ruins of ancient human settlements. During excavations, bones were found belonging to domestic animals of the ancient world. So it can be argued that even in such a distant era of human life, domesticated animals accompanied us. Today there are species of domestic animals that are no longer found in the wild.
Many of today's wild animals are feral animals caused by humans. For example, let's take America or Australia as clear evidence of this theory. Almost all domestic animals were brought to these continents from Europe. These animals have found fertile soil for life and development. An example of this is hares or rabbits in Australia. Due to the fact that there are no natural predators dangerous for this species on this continent, they multiplied in huge numbers and went wild. Since all rabbits were domesticated and brought by Europeans for their needs. Therefore, we can say with confidence that more than half of wild domesticated animals are former domestic animals. For example, wild city cats and dogs.
Be that as it may, the question of the origin of domestic animals should be considered open. As for our pets. The first confirmations in chronicles and legends we meet are a dog and a cat. In Egypt, the cat was a sacred animal, and dogs were actively used by humanity in the ancient era. There is plenty of evidence for this. In Europe, the cat appeared in large numbers after the Crusade, but firmly and quickly occupied the niche of a pet and mouse hunter. Before them, Europeans used various animals to catch mice, such as weasels or genets.
Domestic animals are divided into two unequal species.
The first type of domestic animal is farm animals that directly benefit humans. Meat, wool, fur and many other useful things, goods, and are also used by us for food. But they do not live directly in the same room with a person.
The second type is pet animals (companions), which we see every day in our houses or apartments. They brighten up our leisure time, entertain us and give us pleasure. And most of them are almost useless for practical purposes in the modern world, such as hamsters, guinea pigs, parrots and many others.
Animals of the same species can often belong to both species, both farm animals and pets. A prime example of this is that rabbits and ferrets are kept at home as pets, but are also bred for their meat and fur. Also, some waste from pets can be used, for example, the hair of cats and dogs for knitting various items or as insulation. For example, belts made of dog hair.
Many doctors note the positive impact of pets on human health and well-being. We can notice that many families who keep animals at home note that these animals create comfort, calm, and relieve stress.
This encyclopedia was created by us to help pet lovers. We hope that our encyclopedia will help you in choosing a pet and caring for it.
If you have interesting observations of your pet’s behavior or would like to share information about some pet. Or you have a nursery, veterinary clinic, or animal hotel near your home, write to us about them at , so that we can add this information to the database on our website.
Diseases of the nervous system in cats are characterized not only by psychological discomfort and strange behavior. There are a number of pathologies that affect the structures of the central nervous system and manifest themselves with characteristic (often severe) symptoms.
Structure of the National Assembly and provoking factors
The basis is created by neuron cells. When neurons come into contact, reflex circuits are formed through which nerve impulses pass.
Main subsections:
- CNS (brain, spinal cord).
- Peripheral (cranial and spinal nerves connecting the central trunk with receptors of tissues and organs).
Factors that can provoke a nervous system disorder include anything that changes the animal’s usual life.
List of possible ones:
- change of owner or place of residence;
- riding public (personal) transport;
- visit to the veterinary clinic;
- abrupt transition from one food to another;
- weaning from the mother cat;
- holidays (guests, fireworks, music).
A special place is given to the physical ailments of the cat, in which it experiences pain and discomfort. This also includes veterinary manipulations associated with “improving” appearance, or with preventive methods (castration, sterilization, declawing, etc.).
Emotional stress causes the development of deep neuroses. Although this is not a prerequisite, cats, just like people, have individual characteristics. Some react inadequately to moving the tray, while others are not bothered by loud music in the room, washing, or long trips in the car.
The breeder’s task is to know how sensitive their pet is and to prevent unnecessary worries!
Diseases of the nervous system: list and characteristics
Pathologies associated with disruption of the nervous system are diverse and have extensive symptoms. They may concern damage directly to the nervous tissue or as secondary signs, a consequence of other diseases (hepatitis, endocrine pathologies).
- Aggressive behavior.
A common symptom of neurological diseases. Expressed in behavioral disorders not associated with natural physiological states (estrus, pregnancy, lactation). Often, symptoms of aggression go away on their own or are corrected with the help of hormone therapy (castration). A sudden attack of aggression requires the attention of a veterinarian and may be a symptom of rabies.
- Neurotic conditions.
They are considered reversible pathologies and develop when higher nervous activity malfunctions. The impetus for neuroses is cruel treatment by the owner, stress, frequent exhibitions, and conflicts between pets. In rare cases, infectious diseases. Neuroses are a collective image that is not characterized by a single symptom; the following come to the fore: depression, neurasthenia, hysterics. Manifestations can be directly opposite in terms of symptoms - on the one hand - aggression, bright, non-standard reactions to completely harmless, everyday phenomena. On the other hand, it is characterized by apathy, lethargy, anorexia. Treatment of nervous disorders consists of eliminating the stress-provoking factor and stabilizing the nervous system with the help of mild, sedative drugs. 
- Kay-Gaskell syndrome.
Dysotonomia has no specific causes and is rarely diagnosed in cats. The mechanism of development and methods of its treatment are also poorly understood. The syndrome affects the PNS and almost all internal organs. Treatment is ineffective, the nervous system and vital functions (respiratory, urinary, gastrointestinal tract) suffer. In cats, there is: alternating constipation and diarrhea, prolapse of the third eyelid, mydriasis, dry mucous membranes, incontinence of feces and urine.
- Acute cerebrovascular accident.
Diseases – stroke, heart attack. Against the background of ischemia, a heart attack develops. The vessels become clogged with a blood clot, and the area of the brain left without blood supply dies. Hemorrhage occurs during hemorrhagic strokes, against the background of a violation of the integrity of the vessel. In cats, strokes and heart attacks are diagnosed in adulthood, nervous symptoms depend on the area of the lesions. More often: paralysis, paresis, disruption of physiological processes.
- Discopathy.
A collective term indicating secondary lesions of the spinal cord, often due to trauma. In kittens, the pathology is associated with congenital anomalies of the development of the skeleton and bone tissue (rickets). Symptoms are combined with the location of the lesions; sometimes curvature of the spinal column or protrusion of the vertebrae is visually visible. There are: pain, inability to move freely, paresis, paralysis, involuntary release of feces and urine.
- Meningoencephalitis.
More often, nervous pathology develops against the background of viral infections that cause serous meningoencephalitis. Inflammation affects the meninges and brain. If detected early, it can be treated and goes away almost without leaving a trace. With a bacterial infection, purulent meningitis develops; it is difficult to treat with extensive residual effects that cannot be corrected. 
Symptoms: impaired consciousness, mood swings (drowsiness or aggression), vomiting, muscle tension, convulsions, breathing problems, etc.
- Hepatargy.
Another name for nervous pathology is hepatic encephalopathy, which is expressed in disruption of the liver during sepsis and severe infections. The role of a provoking factor is assigned to an increased amount of hydrogen nitride, which has a neurotoxic effect. When it acts on the brain, foci of softening are created, and ischemic encephalopathy is diagnosed. Neuropsychic behavioral pathologies are observed, progressing gradually. Without treatment, hepatic coma occurs.
- Concussion.
Is the result of injury. Cats lose consciousness, coordination of movements is impaired. There is vomiting, no appetite, rapid pulse.
- Loss of mobility.
Paresis and paralysis develop against the background of injuries, as a consequence of stroke and pathologies that lead to deterioration of cerebral circulation. A cat’s paws can be very toned, or “lifeless,” flabby, or atrophied.
- Epilepsy.
It is characterized by organic lesions of the brain, most often the frontal lobe. It can be true or false, the latter develops against the background of the underlying disease. Symptoms: convulsions, seizures. Neurological disorders are irreversible; treatment is only supportive, aimed at increasing the time between attacks.
- Eclampsia.
Diagnosed only in lactating cats or in the last stages of pregnancy. It is characterized by the release of calcium from the body, the formation of edema, and the presence of tonic-clonic convulsions. In cats, the heartbeat quickens, blood pressure rises, coordination of movements is impaired, vomiting and diarrhea occur.
Treatment of diseases of the nervous system
Any pathology associated with changes in the functioning of the central nervous system requires the intervention of a veterinarian. The list of therapeutic measures depends on the nature of the damage, the degree of involvement of internal organs, and the extent of damage to the brain and spinal cord.
Some diseases of the nervous system require lifelong therapy (epilepsy); sometimes it is impossible to restore the animal and return it to normal life (paralysis).