Pica
Also known as: Ingestión de objetos no alimentarios
El pica es la ingestión persistente de materiales no nutritivos y no alimentarios, como tela, plástico, lana o arena higiénica. Conlleva un riesgo significativo de obstrucción gastrointestinal y toxicidad. Tanto causas médicas como conductuales pueden subyacer a este comportamiento, y algunos casos presentan un componente racial, especialmente la succión de lana en razas de gatos orientales.
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.