1st May 2006

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Question:

Why has my nine year old Siamese started to lick the rocks and cement and chew pebbles around the garden (he has no teeth)?

Answer:

If this problem has only just begun, it is likely that there may be an underlying medical condition and you should get him checked out by your veterinary surgeon. Pica (the eating on non-food items) is quite common in the oriental breeds, but usually they go for wool, clothing and objects that are softer than rocks and cement. Another explanation could be that Cocoa has somehow learnt that by doing this he gets your attention. This is particularly likely if you react every time you see him doing it. Attention-seeking behaviour can be reversed by consistently ignoring it, but do get him to the vet first to check nothing is wrong with him physically.