Ask a Vet with Dr. Sam: Why do cats chase their tails?

Why do cats chase their tails?

Tail chasing is something all cat lovers have witnessed. It starts with a little twitch and then quickly turns into your cat spinning in circles in what seems to be an ill-advised attempt to catch its own tail. Which makes us wonder, just why do kittens and cats chase their own tails and is this “normal” behavior?

Tail chasing is something that kittens do quite commonly when they play and practice their hunting skills. Young kittens are infatuated with anything that moves, and since tails resemble snakes, they seem perfect for pouncing. This is harmless fun (even when they do catch their tail!) and they soon learn it is better to hunt things that are not attached to their bodies.

Adult cats may occasionally chase their tail for entertainment as well, especially if they did it frequently as a kitten. However, since most adult cats mature out of tail chasing, if your cat suddenly starts chasing his tail, it is important to recognize that he could be trying to tell you something.

An adult cat might be chasing his tail out of boredom or to relieve stress, especially if you notice that when doing it, he is not biting or damaging his tail. If you see this new behavior and it seems to coincide with changes in the household routine, try to ensure that your cat has plenty of stimulation (laser pointers are great distractions!) and interactive toys. This will help your cat focus more on the toys and less on his tail.

Sometimes though, when an adult cat suddenly begins chasing his tail, it could be the result of an underlying health issue and you will want to consult with your vet. It could be that your furry friend is not playing with his tail but is reacting to pain or itchiness as a result of an infection or from skin allergies. In rare cases, the cat could be suffering from feline hyperesthesia syndrome (FHS), which is caused by overactive nerve endings that cause a tingling sensation in the tail and sensitivity to touch.

Tail chasing can be completely normal depending on the age of the cat and the environmental situation. Kittens are highly likely to chase their tails and some adult cats who are extra playful or bored when left alone too often may do it as well. However, if your adult cat starts chasing her tail and that is not something she has done before, know that she might not be playing and have a talk with your vet to rule out any medical concerns.

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