Cats are very complex creatures when it comes to behaviour. They are known for their sassy independence and their sometimes cheeky nature. Just like in humans, cats can have different personality types; some are affectionate, some are aloof, some like to play with toys, and others are natural hunters. The real question we want to know, is do cats suffer from the same vices as us? Do cats experience addiction? Does addiction affect cats the same way that we do as humans? 

Should we be concerned if our cats exhibit addictive behaviour? 

Table of contents

What is addiction?

Addiction is defined as not having control over doing or taking something to the point where it could be harmful to you. Addiction can be seen as a craving or dependency on something. Common addictions in humans include tobacco, alcohol, recreational drugs, and even some foods. 

What do our cats have access to that could lead to addiction? 

  • Food and drink
  • Plants
  • Medications

Food and drink – can they be a source of addiction?

Food

Some cats can become addicted to treats or food in general. Although food isn’t always considered an addiction in people, if you are constantly thinking about food, craving food, and wanting more food than you need for energy requirements, you can see that this is in fact a potential addiction. 

Cats that have a food addiction will be very vocal around food time or beg at the table for scraps and vocalise running between the person and the food cupboard between meals. They may scratch at cupboards or try to access food by themselves also. 

The danger of us as owners, caving and enabling those behaviours is that it is likely your cat will become overweight which as we know carries a lot of health risks from diabetes to joint disease, metabolic disorders, and heart disease to name a few. So obviously this is something we want to avoid encouraging.  

Looking back, before turning to microchip feeders in my house, I think my cat likely had a food addiction. You’ll be pleased to know, after a few changes, Felix cat is now a very healthy weight. And his food is weighed out and treats carefully monitored…. Because my husband is now in charge🤣. I, the vet, set the health goals, husband carries them out. The best way. I removed myself as an enabler and changed some of the management routines for his health benefit. 

Getting on top of food-related addictions in cats can be a challenge; especially in families where multiple people oversee feeding protocols Speak to your veterinarian if you are worried about your cats’ weight or behaviour around food; they can share some common mistakes and good practices to get your kitty back on track. 

Alcohol

The primary reason we don’t want pets drinking alcohol is that their bodies aren’t able to process it safely which easily leads to liver and kidney damage, even with small volumes. There is also a danger of alcohol leading to balance problems and miscoordination risking falls and serious injury.

In nature it is seen that mammals seek out fermenting fruit for its natural “high”; and enjoy the feeling of being drunk actively participating in its consumption and enjoying the sensation. One such example is of a group of Vervet Monkeys in St Kitts, the Caribbean that anecdotally enjoy imbibing in tourists’ drinks, often raiding bars. “The drunken monkey hypothesis” has been born, suggesting an evolutionary theory for humans and monkeys seeking alcohol related to the enjoyment of the energy-rich albeit fermenting fruit. The theory has been replicated and seen in a variety of animals suggesting alcoholism isn’t an addiction only humans succumb to. 

There are no known studies on the long-term use of alcohol in dogs or cats. However, it is documented in some clinical studies that cats are more susceptible than other species to organ damage due to alcohol intake. Obviously, it is therefore not recommended to allow your cat access to alcohol due to associated health risks. 

Plants

Plants aren’t often thought of in humans as a potential source for addiction. But some human and animal drugs are derived from plants, so could addiction be a concern? 

Some of the most common plants that our cats will interact with or we give them access to are catnip and Valarian. Do these contain addictive substances? My cat certainly seems to have a strong reaction to them – what about yours?

Catnip 

Catnip is the most well-known “recreational” plant-based drug that cats can react to. It contains a compound called nepetalactone, which causes a variety of responses in cats, including rolling, rubbing, and even vocalization. Some cats may become “high” or “drunk” on catnip, while others may have no reaction at all. The effects can last anywhere from a few moments to an hour or so. Cats that do react to catnip can develop a liking to it over time. And if exposed regularly they can associate it with positive feelings and seek it out.

However, this behaviour isn’t seen to be excessive, impulsive or unhealthy, even if the reaction in the moment is strong, the body isn’t reacting to the “drug” in the same way that it does with addictive substances and so it isn’t a true addictive drug. Catnip does not contain any addictive substances and is not toxic, so it is safe for your cat to enjoy. Consumed in excess, your cat could experience diarrhoea or vomiting and so Catnip should be offered in moderation. 

Valerian, Silver Vine and Tatarian Honeysuckle

Cats are extremely attracted to the valerian plant (Valeriana officinalis) which is often used in cat toys but can also be purchased as a diffuser used to help anxiety. Just like catnip, not all cats react to this plant but those that do will often be seen rolling around in it, enjoying the euphoric high gained from its consumption. A study showed 80% of domestic cats responded to silver vine and 50% to Tatarian Honeysuckle. Of cats not responding to catnip, 75% of them responded to silver vine and 33% to Tatarian honeysuckle – and so these are good alternatives for cats that do not respond to Catnip. 

These plants are safe for your cat to enjoy and give a similar effect to catnip as well as being calming. A large amount of any of these plants being consumed could lead to diarrhoea and vomiting, they are however not toxic and do not lead to addiction. 

Medication 

It is possible for cats to become addicted to certain medications, just as it is for humans and other animals. However, it is important to note that cats have different physiological responses to medications than humans, and certain substances that may be safe or even beneficial for humans could be harmful or even lethal to cats.

Animals are often used to test human drugs before gaining regulatory approval and are released into the human market. Animal medication also goes through a strict regulatory process in which their desired effects and side effects are scrupulously observed prior to deeming them safe. During testing and treatment, addiction has been seen in animals exposed to some of these medications as it does in humans with continued use. 

Nicotine 

I haven’t met a cat addicted to nicotine. However, there are reports of monkeys and lab rats being exposed to and showing symptoms of addiction. Evidence suggests that mammals can have the same physiological response as humans to nicotine and addiction is a risk. And thus this should be considered when smoking around pets. More importantly, I have seen cats brought into the clinic with diseases associated with living in a smoky environment consistent with that of humans that smoke often, such as emphysema, asthma, lung disease and lung cancers. Second-hand smoke is a real risk to our pets and their smaller respiratory systems, similarly, as it is to our children, therefore avoiding it is recommended. 

NSAIDs 

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Meloxicam (Metacam, Loxicom, Rheumocam, Inflacam, Meloxaid and Meloxidyl), Robenacoxib (Onsior) or Firocoxib (Previcox) have little to no addictive potential. Your cat may be stiffer or sorer without medication they are accustomed to and so it is not recommended to stop them without veterinary advice, however, withdrawal side effects are not a feature of these types of drugs. 

Opioids 

Opioid medications commonly used to treat pain in cats such as codeine, morphine, buprenorphine, and tramadol have a high potential for addiction in cats. It is generally considered that if these medications are prescribed for more than 3 months, addiction can occur and so use should be monitored. These medications if stopped suddenly can lead to withdrawal syndrome and so if these medications are to be stopped, it is recommended that the dose be tapered slowly over time under veterinary guidance. 

Benzodiazepines 

These medications include drugs such as diazepam, alprazolam, and midazolam, which are often used in premedication prior to surgery in older or poorly animals, but they can also be prescribed at home for muscle relaxation or anxiety disorders. Anecdotally colleagues have seen cats with apparent addictions to these medications, finding that unique symptoms not present before treatment became apparent upon lowering or withdrawing the drugs. One particular cat would self-harm if the dose was dropped, which was not a feature being treated prior to starting the medication. This indicated to the prescribing veterinarian a drug dependence. 

Benzodiazepines are known addiction-forming medications in humans, and it appears our cats should be monitored for similar effects. If taken as prescribed and monitored by your veterinarian, there should be no cause for concern with this medication.  

Other medications 

Gabapentin – Used to treat neuropathic pain. These medicines work on the GABA receptors in the body related to nerves and nerve pain conduction. Gabapentin is used for many reasons in veterinary medicine such as painful spinal conditions, nerve pain and dysfunctions, post-injury or neurological conditions. Gabapentin has the ability to become an addictive substance, stopping this medication suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms are the result of dependence, which is the body’s normal physiological adaptation to the sustained presence of a substance. A person who develops dependence may feel like they need the drug to think and function normally.

Tolerance of drugs such as opioids, what does this mean?

After taking some medication (such as opioids) for a long time, receptors (areas within cells of the body that drugs act on to give their effect) can become “used to” the medication and downregulation of receptors can be experienced meaning the drug doesn’t have the same effect that it did before. The effect of drug tolerance is that the body can no longer feel pain relief from that dose of medication which leads to higher and higher doses being required to produce the same effect. If you notice your pet needing higher and higher doses of medication to be comfortable, you might find that that drug isn’t working for them anymore or that they need a dose adjustment. With higher doses of medications like opioids, it is more likely that addiction would occur. Speak to your vet if you are noticing concerning symptoms. 

Evidence in other animals of addiction

Evidence of substance abuse is seen in wild animals, domesticated species, and lab animals. Whether true clinical addictions are formed is unknown; but it is widely accepted that many types of birds, rodents and other mammals seek out altered states of consciousness. This is achieved by consuming fermented foods or liquids, eating insects or other creatures that secrete or produce a mind-altering substance, or ingesting other items that generate a “high.” 

Symptoms of addiction in cats

  • Excessive vocalisation (especially around food times) 
  • Attention-seeking behaviour
  • Pawing at food bowls or cupboards
  • Hyperactivity around the time that medication is due 
  • Impatience at having medication given / medication seeking
  • Hiding away, negative vocalisation such as growling in the event of withdrawal from the addiction

Can cats become addicts?

Absolutely, your fluffy felines can experience addiction. We should remember that cats have different digestive systems and metabolising processes than humans. And so foods or substances that are safe for people, could pose a threat to our curious feline friends; such as alcohol, foods containing xylitol and some medications. It is prudent therefore as a responsible pet owner to prevent access to potentially harmful substances that could cause your cat to become seriously ill. 

If you are concerned your cat has consumed something that could be harmful to them, call your vet immediately for advice. Similarly, if you are concerned about your cats’ behaviour, your veterinary team is well-equipped to discuss how to help your cat; so call them or book an appointment. 

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