Pica in dogs treatment depends on whether the condition has been caused by a medical problem or a psychological problem. Eating grass on the other hand is considered normal in dogs, and your dog could be doing this for a number of different reasons, not just pica. For example, dogs that eat their own feces are more likely to be suffering from a condition called coprophagia than Pica. It’s important not to mistake your dog’s odd actions, because the same behavior may be for a completely different condition. Dogs can do some pretty strange things, and while some of those things can be a sign of pica, it doesn’t always mean it is pica. In the case of a blockage, you must immediately take your dog to a vet who’ll likely investigate the issue through surgery or endoscopy.ĭogs with pica may show the following symptoms:Īlthough it’s important to be able to spot the signs of pica disease in dogs, it’s also essential not to misinterpret your dog’s odd actions. Your dog may be in a position where he’s unable to pass a stool and could be in a great deal of pain. Objects that your dog consumes can cause choking, a blockage in the digestive tract or may even result in intestinal problems. Pica in dogs is usually diagnosed when you observe your dog ingesting inedible items. Fear of punishment (for destroying a house item).Lack of mental and physical stimulation.Other psychological reasons behind pica disorder in dogs include: If you believe the reason for your dog’s pica disorder is psychological, behavior modification through training or the use of boredom breakers could be a great option. A dog that is not given enough mental or physical stimulation, may seek something unusual to do to relieve boredom or burn off extra energy. Some dogs can turn destructive due to anxiety and eat a part of, or all of what they destroy. Pica in dogs can also be a result of an emotional or psychological issue like separation anxiety or stress. Psychological or Emotional Issues Behind Pica Drugs/Steroids taken by the dog for some disease.Medical reasons behind pica disorder in dogs may include: Pica disorder can be a sign of other underlying conditions affecting your dog.

Your friendly neighborhood vet may need to run blood, stool, and urine test to check if parasites are causing pica or if it’s some sort of a digestive disorder or malabsorption of nutrients. Since it is difficult for you to find out these reasons on your own, you’ll have to take your furry friend to visit the vet. There can be underlying medical conditions that cause dogs to eat non-food items. Underlying Medical Conditions Behind Pica There are two types of reasons for pica in dogs: You’ll have to examine your dog’s lifestyle and environment. Causes of Pica Disorder in Dogsįinding out what causes pica in dogs can be a bit difficult and tricky. If your dog has been gnawing at non-food items lately, it’s time you learned a bit about the causes, symptoms, and treatment of pica in dogs. Pica in dogs can either be a compulsive behavior or a result of an underlying medical condition. Dogs with pica can develop serious issues like a perforated digestive tract from swallowing sharp objects, they may also suffer from poisoning and choking.

Ehat causes dog pica