In this week’s edition of “Ask the Shelter,” a reader seeks advice about her dog‘s unusual behavior—chewing through cans of cat food. Could this strange habit indicate a health issue, such as a mineral deficiency?
Reader Question: “My dog has chewed on several cans of cat food she found around the house—she chewed the food inside and parts of the can itself. However, when she came across a book recently, she left it entirely untouched. Could this mean she has some kind of metal deficiency?”
Shelter Response: It is certainly possible for animals to develop mineral deficiencies, and sometimes this can manifest in behaviors such as chewing on unusual objects, including metal. If your dog is gnawing on cans, it could be her body’s attempt to compensate for a lack of certain nutrients. I recommend discussing your dog’s diet with your veterinarian, particularly considering her age, breed, and overall health. A professional can provide guidance on whether her food meets all her nutritional needs.
In addition to potential dietary concerns, it’s worth considering other factors. Given that your dog left the book untouched, the cat food might be the specific lure behind her chewing behavior. It could also indicate boredom. Boredom is a common cause of destructive behavior in dogs, so increasing her physical and mental stimulation could help. Regular exercise, along with providing more toys or engaging activities, might prevent her from seeking out less desirable chewing targets.
Another immediate concern is the safety of ingesting metal. It’s important to monitor your dog closely in the coming days, as pieces of the can could cause harm if they pass through her digestive tract. Be sure to contact your vet if you notice any signs of illness or discomfort.
Lastly, try storing the cat food in a place where your dog can’t access it, to eliminate this temptation.
Pets of the Week: Shorty and Cheez-it
Meet Shorty and Cheez-it, the adorable pets seeking a new home. Shorty, along with her sister Bella, was surrendered due to an unwanted litter. Both are sweet, 9-month-old girls eager to find their forever families.
Cheez-it, a 1-year-old boy, was surrendered when his previous owners could no longer care for him. He’s affectionate and looking for a loving home.
Reader Question: “I noticed that my cat has smaller whiskers on her chin—are these whiskers for the same purpose as the longer ones?”
Shelter Response: Whiskers are essential tools for a cat’s navigation, allowing them to determine whether they can fit into tight spaces. Cats have a variety of whiskers, including smaller ones on their chin, which help them avoid getting stuck. These whiskers are particularly useful for sensing the width of openings, signaling when to stop before entering a cramped area. It’s fascinating to observe how much these seemingly simple features contribute to your pet’s well-being.
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Help My Dog Koda Get the Care He Needs
