If you’ve recently caught your kitten nibbling on litter, you’re probably feeling a mix of confusion, disgust, and concern. While this behavior might seem odd, it’s not entirely uncommon among young kittens.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about why your kitten might be eating litter, including expert insights from Dr. Stephanie Liff, Lemonade’s favorite vet.
Why is my cat eating litter?
Here are some of the most common reasons that kittens and adult cats eat litter:
Curiosity
Kittens explore the world with their mouths. This is especially true for young kittens who are still learning about their surroundings. Tasting non-food items, including litter, is a way for them to satisfy their natural curiosity.
Nutritional deficiencies
One of the more concerning reasons for a kitten eating litter is a nutritional deficiency. A lack of essential vitamins or minerals can result in a condition called pica, where animals consume non-food items. If your kitten’s diet isn’t meeting their nutritional needs, they may turn to their litter tray as a substitute.
However, Dr. Liff explains that there’s no single nutrient known to trigger litter eating; rather, it may be a general deficiency or the texture of their food that’s the issue. She recommends trying to alter the texture or type of food to see if that helps curb the behavior.
Teething or gum irritation
If your kitten is teething, they might chew on their litter to soothe irritated gums. This behavior is similar to how puppies (and humans!) chew on toys when they’re teething.
Hunger
Kittens who aren’t getting enough food—or are transitioning from milk to solid food—might eat litter simply because they’re hungry. Ensuring your kitten has access to high-quality kitten-appropriate food can help address this issue.
Stress or anxiety
Changes in their environment, like moving to a new home or the arrival of another pet, can cause stress in kittens. Stress can manifest in unusual behaviors, including eating litter. Dr. Liff highlights:
If they don’t have an enriching environment, they could develop this behavior because of boredom or stress.
Dr. Stephanie Liff
Type of litter
Certain types of litter, like clay litter or clumping litter, might smell or taste appealing to kittens. This could encourage them to nibble on it. Scented litters, in particular, can be a tempting snack, but are not safe for ingestion.
Medical conditions
Underlying health issues, like anemia, kidney disease, or gastrointestinal problems, can also lead to litter consumption. If your kitten is lethargic, has pale gums, or shows other signs of illness, consult your veterinarian immediately.
What to do if your kitten is eating litter
If you’ve noticed your kitten eating litter, taking immediate action is crucial to ensure their safety and well-being. Here’s what you can do:
Rule out medical issues
Eating litter can sometimes be a symptom of serious medical conditions, like anemia, feline leukemia, or even intestinal blockage. Watch for other signs of illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, and schedule a vet visit to rule out any underlying health problems. As Dr. Liff advises,
If you suspect intestinal blockage, your vet will likely recommend X-rays, ultrasounds, blood work, and fecal exams to get a full picture.
Dr. Stephanie Liff
Switch to a safer type of litter
Choose non-clumping or paper-based litter, which is less likely to cause harm if ingested. Avoid scented or clay-based litters, as they can lead to intestinal blockages or other complications. As Dr. Liff advises, switching from clay to paper or corn-based litter reduces risk and temptation.
Monitor their behavior
Keep an eye on your kitten to see if litter eating continues. Watch for medical signs like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, pale gums, or changes in appetite. Also look for behavioral clues such as increased anxiety, excessive grooming, restlessness, or hiding.
Provide proper nutrition
Feed your kitten a high-quality diet that meets their nutritional needs. If you suspect your kitten has a mineral deficiency or other dietary gaps, consult your vet about supplements or switching to a different cat food.
Redirect their curiosity
Provide safe alternatives for your kitten to chew on, like catnip toys or teething aids. Regular playtime can also help keep them mentally and physically stimulated, reducing their interest in the litter box.
Keep the litter box clean
A clean litter tray can discourage your kitten from eating litter. Make sure to scoop out waste regularly to minimize their interaction with feces or clumps.
Limit access to the litter box
If your kitten’s behavior becomes persistent, consider restricting their unsupervised access to the kitty litter until the issue is resolved.
What are the risks of kittens eating litter?
While occasional curiosity might not be harmful, eating litter can pose significant risks to your kitten’s health:
- Blockage in the digestive system: Ingesting clumping cat litter can cause a dangerous intestinal blockage, which may require emergency surgery to resolve.
- Toxicity: Some types of litter contain chemicals or scents that can be harmful when ingested.
- Infection or illness: Eating soiled litter or poop can expose kittens to harmful bacteria or parasites.
If your kitten shows any signs of illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in appetite, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Before we go…
Catching your kitten eating litter can be alarming, but by understanding the potential causes and taking proactive steps, you can keep your furry friend safe and healthy.
With Lemonade pet insurance, you can focus on giving your kitten the best life without worrying about the costs. Get a free quote today and see how easy it is to keep your kitten covered!
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage and discounts may not be available in all states.
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