Wool sucking and chewing is considered one form of obsessive-compulsive disorder in cats. The most common cause of the behavior is lack of socialization early in life. Being separated from the mother at a very early age is also an important predisposing factor.

Even after weaning, a kitten may suck on wool, a human ear or finger, or another cat to seek comfort. Cats remember suckling at their mother’s teat as a pleasurable experience, and when they are feeling anxious or stressed, they find comfort in sucking substitutes. Some cats suck on a part of their body.

In most cases, wool sucking is an emotional habit. However, there are rare instances when it is caused by pica, where a cat eats substances that are not considered food in an effort to satisfy specific dietary deficiency that he is experiencing.

While it is not really a harmful behavior, ingesting the material can be a cause of concern.  A persistent cat may also ruin good blankets or sweaters that he frequently sucks.

Consult with your Jacksonville Beach, FL vet if you have any concerns about your pet’s behavior. Check out this website BlueSky Veterinary Wellness for more pet care info.