Changes

==Introduction==

==Introduction==

The neurochemical basis for these conditions is thought to be similar across a range of species, including man, cats and dogs. The character of the compulsive disorders reflects the way in which the underlying motivation of arousal and [[Feline Fear and Stress|anxiety]] reduction thought to be common in all compulsion, is expressed in behaviour that is specific to the species or breed.

There is no reliable evidence regarding the prevalence of "compulsive disorders" in cats. In cats, the commonest compulsive behaviours involve '''repetitious''' or '''exaggerated self-maintenance or self-directed behaviours''' such as grooming, sucking or self-mutilation. Cats may also develop compulsive behaviour that originates in a range of other activities. For example, light spot or shadow chasing, and excessive consumptive behaviours (water or food). Compulsively excessive water consumption or play is sometimes referred to as psychogenic polydipsia, but this is an inappropriate use of a term taken from human medicine; in humans psychogenic polydipsia is problem of excessive water consumption that is associated with a range of mental health problems (most commonly psychosis) but it is also very often a side effect of medication (for example, antipsychotic drugs). It is a descriptive term that covers a wide range of different problems with diverse aetiologies and has no equivalent in veterinary patients.

Feline compulsive behaviours are generally associated with '''repetitious''' or '''exaggerated self-maintenance behaviour''' such as grooming, sucking or self-mutilation. The exception is [[Feline Hyperaesthesia Syndrome|hyperaesthesia syndrome]], in which the cat responds aggressively to what may be tactile hallucinations. The behaviour in hyperesthesia syndrome is variable between cats and it is probable that a range of different aetiologies will become apparent as the condition is better understood. Indeed, it may be found to share greater aetiological similarities with oro-facial pain syndrome (seen primarily in Burmese) and feline idiopathic cystitis.

In humans, some disorders that were previously classified as compulsive, such as trichotillomania, have now been reclassified as dysfunctions of impulse control rather than compulsive motivation (for example, body-focussed repetitive behaviour). GIven that almost nothing is known about the aetiology of compulsive disorders in cats, it is possible that a similar change of classification may occur and the term "compulsive disorder" should be regarded as an interim description.

Apart from these common compulsive disorders, cats may develop compulsive behaviour that originates in a range of other activities. For example, light spot or shadow chasing, psychogenic polydipsia or polyphagia.

[[Feline Hyperaesthesia Syndrome|hyperaesthesia syndrome]], is often included under the umbrella of compulsive disorders. However, the behaviour in hyperesthesia syndrome is variable between cats and it is probable that a range of different aetiologies will become apparent as the condition is better understood. Indeed, it may be found to share greater aetiological similarities with oro-facial pain syndrome (seen primarily in Burmese) and feline idiopathic cystitis, and is not a true compulsive disorder.

==Underlying Factors==

==Underlying Factors==