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Why is my Pet Behaving Strangely?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Because pets cannot communicate in spoken languages like humans can, they often behave strangely either because they cannot control themselves, or because they are trying to convey a problem to the people who live with them. Animal behavior can provide important clues about the health of a pet, and if you notice your pet acting oddly, you may want to consider consulting a veterinarian, especially if the behavior is prolonged or potentially dangerous. Make sure to keep an eye on the animals in your life so that you can gauge whether or not a behavior is unusual, and also handle your pets frequently so that you will be aware of any strange growths, cuts, or sores.

The most common cause for strange pet behavior is stress. Stress can be caused by moving, the introduction of another pet, or the introduction of another human into the household. Animals will also react to the emotional state of the individuals they live with, so if you are stressed, your animals probably will be too. Stressed animals may pace, nip, or engage in other compulsive behavior. The best cure for this type of behavior is time. Make sure that the animal has a safe and familiar space to retreat to, and do not attempt to force the pet into any activities. If the animal's eating and drinking habits change, or the behavior grows worse rather than better, consider phoning the vet.

If a cat acts strange for an extended period of time, it should be taken to the vet.
If a cat acts strange for an extended period of time, it should be taken to the vet.

Another source for strange animal behavior is medical problems. If an animal suddenly becomes incontinent or has issues with the litter box, for example, it may be an indicator of digestive or urinary tract problems. Cats, especially, are prone to kidney stones, which may cause them to urinate in strange places. Rather than punishing an animal that is not using the bathroom correctly, you should take it to a veterinarian for a checkup. You may also notice an animal scooting around on the floor after using the bathroom, which is an indicator of impacted anal glands which need to be expressed.

Animals often respond to the moods of the humans they live with.
Animals often respond to the moods of the humans they live with.

When animals start to bite, claw, or engage in other aggressive behavior, this can also indicate a medical problem. Take note of when the animal acts out: it may be linked to a touch in a sensitive region, for example. In some cases, an animal may apparently randomly develop aggressive habits which should be treated by an animal behaviorist. Aggressive behavior may also be linked to abuse, so observe an animal which is acting aggressively with care and see if there is a common link between the people the animal acts out towards, such as men or people wearing a particular color.

Monitor your pet's eating habits and consult your veterinarian about any changes.
Monitor your pet's eating habits and consult your veterinarian about any changes.

Issues with eating and drinking are usually strongly linked to a medical problem such as indigestion, dental ill health, or cancer. In some cases, a pet may be reluctant to eat because it is depressed. A pet will also avoid food that is tainted, so if you have just opened a new container of food or are using very old pet food, you may want to purchase a fresh supply. You should also change a pet's diet slowly, rather than all at once, mixing new food with the old so that the animal develops a taste for it. Keep an eye on how your pet eats, and if the animal starts to lose weight or drink excessive amounts of water, take it in for veterinary care.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are common signs that my pet is behaving strangely?

A vet may be able to diagnose if a medical problem is causing a pet to behave strangely.
A vet may be able to diagnose if a medical problem is causing a pet to behave strangely.

Common signs include changes in appetite, excessive vocalization, sudden aggression, increased lethargy, repetitive behaviors, and elimination outside of the litter box or usual area. These behaviors can indicate stress, illness, or discomfort. Observing any significant changes in your pet's behavior warrants a consultation with a veterinarian.

Could my pet's strange behavior be due to a medical issue?

Yes, often strange behavior is a symptom of underlying medical issues. Conditions such as urinary tract infections, dental disease, arthritis, or hormonal imbalances can lead to behavioral changes. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, many health problems can manifest as behavioral changes, making veterinary evaluation crucial.

How can I tell if my pet's behavior is related to anxiety or stress?

Anxiety or stress in pets can manifest as destructive behavior, accidents in the house, excessive grooming, or withdrawal from interaction. Stressors can include changes in the environment, new pets or family members, or loud noises. If these behaviors persist, it's important to consult a veterinarian or animal behaviorist for assessment and management strategies.

What should I do if my pet starts behaving aggressively?

If your pet suddenly becomes aggressive, it's important to ensure everyone's safety first. Avoid punishing your pet, as this can exacerbate the problem. Instead, try to identify any potential triggers for the aggression and remove them if possible. Consult with a veterinarian or a certified animal behaviorist to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.

Can changes in routine affect my pet's behavior?

Changes in routine can significantly affect your pet's behavior. Pets thrive on consistency, and disruptions like a change in feeding times, a new work schedule, or moving to a new home can lead to stress and unusual behavior. Providing a stable routine and gradual adjustments to changes can help mitigate these effects.

Is it possible that my pet's strange behavior is due to aging?

As pets age, they can develop cognitive dysfunction syndrome, which is similar to dementia in humans. Symptoms may include disorientation, changes in sleep patterns, and house soiling. According to a study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior, cognitive dysfunction affects 14-35% of dogs between 8 to 15 years old. A veterinary consultation is essential for diagnosis and management.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a AllThingsNature researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a AllThingsNature researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon249300

My female cat is doing the yowling and rolling on floor also lying down with her rear raised. I think she is most probably in heat.

anon51857

Thank you, thank you, thank you! I think I may have just gotten an answer to my poor kitty's problem. She is demonstrating symptoms of possibly having kidney stones, I will be taking her to the vet tomorrow. Thanks again, Michele

anon10641

My friend has a female beagle indoors. She had the beagle spayed 2 weeks ago yesterday. Missi (the beagle) sleeps in the bed with her owners, but since the spaying, she growls at my friends husband when he get up from bed and goes back in the room like he is a intruder, accidents on the floor that she didn't do before, scratching wooden doors, etc. This has all started after the surgery. What do you suggest? Is it a girl thing?

olittlewood

is your cat spayed? i had a cat, that before she was spayed, would yowl like that when she was in heat. i think she must've been yowling to attract male cats in the vicinity. if she isn't spayed, i'd recommend doing it asap to stop that yowling and other behavior.

CatDad

Our long haired feline has started to "yowl" about a week or so ago. She seems fine in every other respect; Appetite, bathroom behavior and so on. She doesn't seem to be sick or lethargic. But now, for no apparent reason, she'll begin to "yowl". And it's not to "ask" to be fed or to go out either. Those requests typically came as "meows". Any ideas out there?

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    • If a cat acts strange for an extended period of time, it should be taken to the vet.
      By: Byelikova Oksana
      If a cat acts strange for an extended period of time, it should be taken to the vet.
    • Animals often respond to the moods of the humans they live with.
      By: ysbrandcosijn
      Animals often respond to the moods of the humans they live with.
    • Monitor your pet's eating habits and consult your veterinarian about any changes.
      By: UJac
      Monitor your pet's eating habits and consult your veterinarian about any changes.
    • A vet may be able to diagnose if a medical problem is causing a pet to behave strangely.
      By: Gabriel Blaj
      A vet may be able to diagnose if a medical problem is causing a pet to behave strangely.