|
|
Eating Dirt, Rocks, Non-Food Materials (Pica)
Pica is a medical term for eating dirt, rocks, or any other non-food materials. Eating non-food materials may be associated with behavioral issues or health disorders.
Some veterinarian specialists associate pica with health disorders:
- iron deficiency anemia. - a condition characterized by decrease in the number of red cells in the blood caused by too little iron. Iron is an essential component of hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying pigment in the blood. The causes of iron deficiency are too little iron in the diet, poor absorption of iron by the body, and loss of blood.
- Chronic stomach or intestinal disease, such as chronic pancreatitis - a progressive disorder of the pancreas which causes destruction of the pancreas. Dogs with chronic pancreatitis lack sufficient pancreatic enzymes. This lack of enzymes results in the body's inability to properly digest fat, carbohydrates and proteins (Mike Richards, DVM).
- esophageal dysphagia: - swallowing problems
- lead toxicity
- enterocolitis - inflammatory bowel disease
First, you should consult with your veterinarian surgeon about your pet's possible health problems. Your veterianrian may suggest changing your pet diet or including approved mineral supplements into your pet's diet.
Some veterinarian experts believe that chewing on non-food materials starts when puppies are weaned too early or too abruptly.
If all health disorders have been ruled out, then bahavioral reasons for pica should be considered. Your dog or puppy may eat dirt, or pick up a rock just to gain your attention, or because he is bored, or because a puppy or a dog was encouraged and trained to pick up objects. Some cases need medical treatment with behavior modifying drugs.
Go Pets America recommends seeking the advice of your local veterinarian for the most appropriate vaccination program and for the diagnosis and treatment of your pet's health problems. For vaccination requirements please contact your state and local licensing authorities.
|