PDSA Weekly column - Why pets eat the strangest things

From socks and slippers to necklaces and knickers – our pets sometimes eat the strangest of things! But why do they do this? What makes our dogs and cats think stones would make a scrumptious snack, or that toys will be a tasty treat?

PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing explains: "Pets eating things they shouldn't is more common than you might think. Most commonly pets swallow inappropriate things because they've started investigating something through chewing and got carried away, swallowing it by accident, or because they think it might be edible!

"However, there is a behavioural, compulsive condition called 'Pica' – a term used to describe pets who persistently and obsessively chew or eat  items that have no nutritional value,  to the extent it  interferes with their everyday lives. Interestingly, the word Pica is actually the Latin name for magpies – birds that are often considered to eat anything!"

Pica can be difficult to understand, and it's thought that in some cases an underlying nutritional deficiency may have prompted the behaviour, but more commonly stress, anxiety, boredom or changes in environment can set it off. The condition is most commonly seen in dogs, however, cats have also been known to be affected.

Nina continues: "Although it can seem quite funny, the condition can be very serious, and can even prove fatal if they suffer with poisoning or blockages in the stomach or intestines. In these cases, medical treatment or emergency surgery might be needed to save the pet's life. Pets who are suffering from pica will need veterinary advice to manage their condition."

Although the exact reasons why pets end up eating odd things isn't fully understood, we know that dogs, who often explore things with their mouths, can sometimes accidentally swallow things they pick up, and cats may swallow things they are playing with. If your pet has a habit of chewing things they shouldn't, there are steps owners can take to reduce the chance of their pets doing this. Here are Nina's top tips:

• Removing temptation – keep risky items safely out of reach, as well as those your pet is particularly fond of. You might even need to keep certain items in a locked cupboard. Get into the habit of keeping the floor and any surfaces your pet can reach clear of anything small enough for your pet to swallow.
• Exercise– For dogs, daily walks are vital. Ideally more than one walk a day, with off-lead play if safe to do so. Cats and dogs need to have the chance to explore their surroundings and the great outdoors has so much to offer the – sights, sounds and smells all stimulate the senses. For indoor cats, research ways on how to enhance their environment, so they don't get bored and frustrated.
• Entertainment – keep your pet entertained with puzzles toys and stimulating games to keep their minds focused and occupied, so they're not tempted to get into the habit of mouthing things they shouldn't. Supervise their play and make sure their toys are undamaged, can't be swallowed and don't pose a risk if eaten.
• Training – for dogs (and even cats), try positive reward-based training. Helping them to understand a few simple commands like 'leave' and 'drop' so if you see them going for something that could be dangerous to them you can stop this, even if you are some distance away.
• A muzzle – if your dog gobbles things up on walks and hasn't learnt the 'drop' or 'leave' command yet, a muzzle can help to keep them safe. A simple basket muzzle should stop them from wolfing down anything hazardous and they'll still be able to enjoy their walk. PDSA's website has advice on how to muzzle train your dog – www.pdsa.org.uk/MuzzleTraining   

Nina concluded: "If you're worried your pet has eaten something they shouldn't, or seems unwell in general, you should always contact your vet for advice. The quicker they can investigate, the better the outcome is likely to be."

PDSA is the vet charity for pets in need, providing a vital service for pets across the UK whose owners struggle to afford treatment costs for their sick and injured pets. For many vulnerable pets, PDSA is there to help when there is nowhere else for their owners to turn. Support from players of People's Postcode Lottery helps us reach even more pet owners with vital advice and information.