Can Cats Have Autism? Signs & Symptoms In Cats

There’s not any scientific evidence that proves that cats can have autism. However sometimes cats can express behaviors that can be same to those as seen humans with autism.

Can Cats Have Autism?

A neuro behavioural disorder that affects the social contact, communication, and behavior is called Autism. Mostly the autism is associated with humans but the question is that can cats can have autism too. The simple and short answer no.

Lack of social interaction is one of the described characteristics autism. While on the other hand cats are social animals that enjoy interacting with other cats and their owners. Cats may not be as social as dogs, but still they thirst for love and attention.

Cats that seems to be unfriendly and are not interested in socializing may be just showing their individualistic nature, it doesn’t means that they are signs of autism in cats.

Boring behavior is an other characteristic of autism. But the cats are mostly known for their grooming behavior which can be seen sometimes excessive. However by seeing this behavior you cannot indicate that  is my cat autistic.

Cats keep their fur clean and healthy to maintain their hygiene. Sometimes cats also clean other cats for establishing superiority as a sign of  establishing superiority and affection.

Sometimes stereotyped behaviors can be seen in cats such as spinning. These behaviors does not indicate signs of autism in cats but, they can be a sign of of stress or boredom.

One of the reason of these types of behaviors  can be cats that are not provided with enough mental encouragement and are kept in small spaces.

It is important to notice that like humans, cats can also suffer from a variety of mental health issues like anxiety, Depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

You may be mistaken by these changes in behavior due to these conditions and may take it them as autism. You should consult with a veterinarian if you are worried  about your cats behavior.

How can cats be autistic?

While cats can exhibit behaviors that  can be similar to those as seen in humans with autism, but its not possible for cats to have autism. For example some cats may become fearful or anxious  because they can be supersensitive to noise or touch.

Moreover, some cats may have problems with communication. Although cats are well-known for their sounds like meowing and purring, they are not always using them to convey the needs or feelings. This may sometimes make it hard for owners to know what their kittens want or need.

It is also important to note that some breeds of cats may have more behavioral issues than the other cats. For instance, Siamese cats are known to be quite vocal and require a lot of attention from their owners. However, Persian cats are more likely to suffer from anxiety and stress because they are very sensitive.

It’s important to consult with a veterinarian who can provide appropriate treatment for your cat if you are noticing that your cat is showing abnormal behaviors or seem upset. Most behavioral issues in cats can be managed successfully, if they are given proper attention and care.

Also Read: 

Can Cats Get Colds?

Are Carnations Toxic To Cats?

Can a Cat Eat a Chicken Bone?

What Causes Autism In Cats?

The CDC (centers for Disease and Disorder) indicates that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a type of developmental disability. This condition can prevent people who got it from socializing and communicating.

Five Types Of Autism

These include:
1. Asperger’s syndrome.
2. Rett syndrome.
3. Kanner’s syndrome.
4. childhood disintegrative disorder.
5. pervasive developmental disorder.

Mostly, ASD is diagnosed at a very early age. Autism children might evoke the unusual behaviors and unusual characteristics.
One of the things concerning ASD is that it hits the patients differently. Usually, there is a discrepancy in indications of ASD in children and adults.
This means that autism often also doesn’t go with physical symptoms. Consequently, the problem is not something that can be easily perceived by others.

Here are some of the common signs of ASD:

• Problems of the efficiency of communication
• Beware of the eye contact and the physical contact
• Oftener than not, children enjoy childish things
• Entrapment with flashing lights and moving objects
• Marked , strange , abnormal, and repetitive speech patterns
• Extraordinarily high (IQ)
• Indifference to pain
• Stressing too much due to different types of routines

Mental Health Problems in Cats

There are some types of behavior that look similar to autism in people, like playing with others badly or repeating the same action all day long, and cats can perform any of these. But autism is a condition that actually can only be diagnosed in people; it can’t be diagnosed in any other human activity. In order to differentiate between the nuances of feline behavior, the experts prefer different terms other than the above. They watch for each device, separate needs, to have them be peaceful and plot. In other words, when it drives cats into a hiding mode, they become themselves, and specific care is required according to their unique traits.

Conclusion