Why Is My Older Dog Eating Toilet Paper?

If you’ve noticed your beloved senior dog nibbling on toilet paper, don’t panic! While it may seem like an odd behavior, it’s not uncommon for older dogs to develop this peculiar habit. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand why your furry friend is indulging in this unusual snack and what you can do about it.

Pica: A Craving for Non-Food Items

Pica is a condition that causes dogs to eat non-food items, including toilet paper, dirt, rocks, and even feces. It’s often a sign of an underlying medical or psychological issue, such as:

• Nutritional deficiencies: Dogs with pica may be lacking certain vitamins or minerals in their diet, which they try to supplement by eating non-food items.
• Digestive problems: Gastrointestinal issues, such as inflammatory bowel disease or parasites, can lead to pica as dogs attempt to soothe their discomfort.
• Dental issues: Tooth pain or gum disease can make chewing food uncomfortable, leading dogs to seek out softer alternatives like toilet paper.
• Cognitive decline: Senior dogs with cognitive dysfunction syndrome (CDS) may lose their ability to distinguish between food and non-food items.

Other Possible Causes

Apart from pica, there are other reasons why your older dog may be eating toilet paper:

• Boredom: Senior dogs with limited activity levels may resort to toilet paper eating as a form of entertainment.
• Stress or anxiety: If your dog is feeling stressed or anxious, they may engage in destructive behaviors like toilet paper eating to cope.
• Curiosity: Puppies and young dogs often explore their surroundings by chewing on everything, including toilet paper. This behavior can sometimes persist into adulthood.
• Medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as diabetes or Cushing’s disease, can lead to increased thirst, which may cause dogs to lick or eat toilet paper to quench their thirst.

How to Address the Problem

If you’re concerned about your dog’s toilet paper eating, it’s important to address the underlying cause. Here are some steps you can take:

• Visit your veterinarian: Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to rule out any medical issues that may be contributing to pica or other underlying causes.
• Adjust your dog’s diet: If your dog is lacking certain nutrients, your veterinarian may recommend dietary changes to address the deficiency.
• Provide plenty of mental stimulation: Engage your dog in regular exercise, training, and interactive play to prevent boredom and reduce stress.
• Manage your dog’s anxiety: If your dog is anxious, consider using calming aids such as pheromone diffusers, anxiety wraps, or medication prescribed by your veterinarian.
• Redirect your dog’s behavior: When you catch your dog eating toilet paper, gently interrupt them and redirect their attention to an appropriate chew toy or activity.
• Keep toilet paper out of reach: Store toilet paper in a closed cabinet or drawer to make it less accessible to your dog.

Conclusion: Understanding Your Dog’s Toilet Paper Obsession

Understanding why your older dog is eating toilet paper is the key to addressing the problem. By addressing any underlying medical or psychological issues, providing adequate mental stimulation, and managing your dog’s anxiety, you can help your furry friend overcome this peculiar habit and maintain a healthy and happy life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is it normal for older dogs to eat toilet paper?
A: While it’s not common, it’s not uncommon for older dogs to develop pica, a condition that causes them to eat non-food items like toilet paper.

Q: What are the signs of pica in dogs?
A: Signs of pica include eating non-food items, such as toilet paper, dirt, rocks, or feces; excessive licking of objects; and chewing on furniture or other inappropriate items.

Q: Can pica be treated?
A: Pica can be treated by addressing the underlying cause. This may involve dietary changes, medical treatment, or behavioral therapy.

Q: What should I do if I catch my dog eating toilet paper?
A: If you catch your dog eating toilet paper, gently interrupt them and redirect their attention to an appropriate chew toy or activity.

Q: How can I prevent my dog from eating toilet paper?
A: Keep toilet paper out of reach, provide your dog with plenty of mental stimulation, and manage their anxiety to prevent them from resorting to toilet paper eating as a coping mechanism.