At Kittyexpert, we like to explain some of your cat’s odd behaviors, and today’s topic goes down as one of cat’s strangest habits. As we all know, cats like to chew on a wide range of objects and surfaces. From cardboard boxes, rugs, furniture, cats like to get their paws on a little bit of everything. Many of you reading this have probably experienced a cat that likes to chew on your hair. For starters, it is important to know that this is normal behavior for a cat, and especially for young kittens.
Why does my cat eat my hair?
Your cat eats hair for one of the following reasons: social interaction/affection, anxiety, boredom, chewing obsession, or a medical condition.
Social Interaction/Affection
Cat grooming is one of the oldest forms of cat behavior and dates to the earliest cats in the wild. Cats in groups often lick or softly bite one another as a sign of affection and social interaction. Therefore, when your cat eats your hair, it is most likely trying to emulate this natural behavior. This is most common in single cat households, and your cat is naturally attracted to your hair because it resembles the fur of other cats.
Anxiety
Similar to human’s tendency to bite fingernails when nervous or anxious, cat similarly will chew on your hair when they have anxiety about something. This could be for a variety of reasons, whether it be from the presence of another animal, attachment insecurities, litter box problems, etc. If your cat is eating your hair and seems more tense than playful, you should start paying attention to its everyday activities and see what is causing the stress.
Boredom
Many people ask Why does my cat eat my hair when I sleep. One of the main reason your cat you’re your hair (especially at night) hair is because he/she is bored. This could be a result of you not having enough daily interaction with your cat, and thus he/she is now trying to get your attention. We recommend spending at least an hour a day playing with your cat, and if this is not possible because of your schedule we recommend buying cat toys it can play with.
Chewing obsession
Some cats have weird obsessions, and unfortunately for you your cat may have developed an obsession with chewing on your hair. Cats develop chewing obsessions of a variety of objects, from furniture, walls, string, etc. Cats are attracted to chewing objects based on their surface texture or scent. So what can you do? Cut your hair… Just kidding! But while you can’t change your hair texture, you should maybe try switching to a new shampoo.
Why do cats eat hair off the floor?
Medical Condition
Sometimes, your cat may be eating hair off the floor because of dietary issues. Unfortunately, many cat illnesses result in a drastic change of appetite. If you notice that your cat is eating hair off the floor, you should discourage the behavior immediately. Not only is it important to find out what is wrong with your cat, but also the consumption of hair can cause build up in your cat’s esophagus and result in hairballs. Hairballs can be very dangerous for you cat, resulting in respiratory issues or digestion problems.
