Cat’s will often press or rub their heads against their owner or other animals as a sign of affection. It is considered abnormal behaviour and cause for concern when head pressing is against inanimate objects such as furniture and walls.
Dr. V. Tynes says: " Behaviour can change as a result of medical issues or physiological changes. It is well understood that dogs and cats continue to express many of the behavioural patterns expressed by their wild ancestors. The behaviours typical of sick animals represent a highly adaptive behavioural strategy, so it is not surprising that many of these behaviours have been retained in spite of domestication.”
Stop Googling - Ask a Real Vet
Content:
- What Is Head Pressing in Cats
- What Causes Head Pressing in Cats
- Head Pressing in Cats Treatment
- Conclusion
What Is Head Pressing in Cats
When cats press their heads against inanimate objects repeatedly it is known as head pressing. This is not to be confused with head butting which cats will do to their parents when they seek attention or affection. If a cat accidentally head butts an inanimate object once it is not a cause for concern. If you are away from home for work or long periods of time a smart pet camera such as the Petcube Cam 360 is recommended to keep an eye on your feline friend, especially if you have noticed any odd or unusual behaviour. Additionally, your cat may seem disoriented or confused when head pressing is witnessed.
What Causes Head Pressing in Cats
There are many things that can be the cause of head pressing in cats with the common link being a disease, or trauma that affects the central nervous system and its functionality:
- Infectious diseases that affect the central nervous system such as rabies (rabies is unfortunately fatal and still very common in 3rd world countries) and Feline Infectious peritonitis
- Trauma to the head or central nervous system
- Brain tumours that can be confirmed with x-rays or CT Scans
- Toxins that have been ingested (certain poisonous plants or human medications)
- Strokes (yes cats can also suffer from strokes!)
- Inflammatory diseases that affect the brain and cause it to swell, such as meningitis and encephalitis
- Metabolic disorders, such as diabetes, that can cause a build up of toxins in the bloodstream which in turn affects the brain
“FIP and viral non-FIP encephalitides are the two most commonly recognised infectious Central Nervous System disorders of cats” according to Dr. D Gunn-Moore. “Toxoplasmosis is the third most commonly identified cause, while other infections such as bacterial infections, feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV), feline leukaemia virus (FeLV), feline panleukopenia virus (FPV), and fungal and parasitic infections only rarely manifest primarily as neurological conditions.”
Head Pressing in Cats Treatment
All the above-mentioned causes of head pressing have varying degrees of severity and treatment will differ according to the cause and the specific case. The best way for your veterinarian to determine the correct treatment is to perform various tests; these may include blood work, x-rays and in some cases a CT scan.
All of this can add up very quickly, that is why it is important to have an Emergency Fund for your pet. This way your budget will not limit your treatment options, and you will be able to do what is best for your furry friend.
Conclusion
If any head pressing is witnessed it is important to take note of how long, how frequently it occurs, and if there are any other changes in behaviour, water consumption or appetite. All this information will assist your veterinarian in making a diagnosis and being able to treat your feline correctly. It is important to immediately contact your veterinarian when head pressing has been witnessed as the sooner they see your pet, the sooner they can help.