Can Cats Have ADHD?: 3 Unusual Mistaken Cat Behaviors

Have you ever found yourself wondering, “Can cats have ADHD?” as you watch your own furry roommate’s 4 AM laps around your bedroom?

If you’re a new cat owner like me, you’ve likely been jolted awake by your cat’s weird antics.

Right before sunrise, my cat, Kat (short for Katherine), races around like there’s no tomorrow.

It might seem silly, but it’s a question that’s popped up in many online communities.

So, can cats have ADHD or other neurodivergent traits? And what’s causing those middle-of-the-night sprints? 

Let’s get into it, and uncover what’s really going on with our feline friends.

Can cats have ADHD?

ADHD causes difficulties with focus, impulsivity, and hyperactivity.

Despite misunderstandings and stigma, it’s one of the most researched medical conditions in humans.

But with cats, ADHD is still a mystery.

Experts, like veterinarians and animal behaviorists, are still scratching their heads.

Some believe cats may experience ADHD, but the truth is that we just don’t have enough research to say for sure.

Can animals have ADHD?

Have you noticed your cat gets chatty late at night, or your dog fixating on something you can’t quite figure out?

That’s normal animal behavior, not ADHD. 

Some animals have a lot of energy or get distracted quickly. It’s who they are. 

But if this becomes extreme or never seems to stop, you might want to chat with a vet. There could be something more going on.

How do you treat ADHD in cats?

ADHD in cats isn’t recognized as a medical condition. But if your cat’s acting hyper, distracted, or impulsive, you can still help. 

Here are some strategies you might try:

• Setting Playtimes: Scheduled play sessions can help burn off excess energy.
• Interactive Toys: Engage your cat’s mind to keep them entertained and focused.
• Daily Routine: Cats thrive on routine and a stable schedule can help manage behavior.

If these efforts don’t help, it’s likely time to see the vet.

What is Hyperesthesia Syndrome in Cats?

Does your cat act hyper or twitchy? Perhaps they respond overly to even the gentlest touch?

You might think it’s just your cat being impulsive, but there’s more to it.

Meet Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome (FHS), known as ‘rippling skin disorder.’

Some cat owners mistake this for feline ADHD, but they’re pretty different.

FHS is a brain issue that makes cats react in extreme ways.

A simple pat on the back might make them groom frantically or even act aggressively.

So why do people get it mixed up with ADHD?

It’s easy to see how both can seem to involve hyperactivity or impulsive reactions. (LINK TO IMPULSE V )

But ADHD’s behaviors stem from a whole different source.

Diagnosing FHS isn’t a walk in the park.

Your vet has to look closely to rule out other health problems before making a treatment plan.

Don’t brush off these odd signs as just your cat being ‘playful’ or ‘wild.’

This is a serious condition that could affect your cat’s well-being.

If you notice something unusual, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.

3 Cat-related concerns mistaken for ADHD:

1. Feline Hyperthyroidism: This common hormonal imbalance can lead to symptoms like increased activity, vocalization, and restlessness, which may be mistaken for hyperactivity or impulsivity.
2. Sensory Sensitivities: Cats have acute senses, and certain stimuli such as loud noises or specific textures might provoke an exaggerated response. These behaviors might be misinterpreted as a lack of focus or overreaction typical of ADHD.
3. Boredom or Lack of Stimulation: If a cat is under-stimulated or bored, it may display erratic behavior, excessive meowing, or other activities to gain attention. These behaviors can mimic inattention and impulsivity, but they might just be a cry for more playtime or engagement.

Working with a veterinarian can help cat owners distinguish between normal feline behaviors and potential underlying health issues.

Takeaway

If you’ve found yourself asking, ‘Can cats have ADHD?’ it’s a sign of how much you care about your furry buddy. 

While cats might not have ADHD, they can display behaviors that raise eyebrows. 

Wild midnight races and chatty episodes are typical cat behaviors.

You can rest easy knowing that their quirky ways are often just a part of being a cat.

But if something seems a bit too extreme or out of character, make sure to consult a vet.

They’re real experts and can help you figure out what’s going on with your beloved pet. 

Found this helpful?

Did this post help you understand your cat’s strange habits? 

Share it with other cat owners! 

Getting to know our cats’ quirks is what makes having them so much fun.