Pica
Pica is the persistent ingestion of non-nutritive, non-food materials such as fabric, plastic, wool, or litter. It carries a significant risk of gastrointestinal obstruction and toxicity. Both medical and behavioural causes can underlie the behaviour, and some cases have a breed-associated component, notably wool sucking in Oriental cat breeds.
Quick facts
- Type:
- Behavioral
- Typical onset:
- Chronic
- Body systems:
- Behavioral, Gastrointestinal
- Affected species:
- CAT, DOG
- Reference codes:
- ICD11 6B84
Sources & references
- Merck Veterinary Manual — Describes pica in companion animals, its medical and behavioural causes, and management.
- PetMD — Owner-facing overview of pica, its risks, and treatment in pets.
- ICD-11
This content is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you are worried about your pet, contact your veterinarian.