What could causing my cat's odd behavior? (kittens, feline, canned food)

[Beulahbird]

My 8 year old female cat shows odd behavior a few times a week. She's normal otherwise. Her tail starts flapping around, hitting her in the head and she tries to grab her tail but then scurries away as if trying to run from it. It's kind of funny to watch but I'm concerned there could be a physical problem. Anyone else have a cat who has shown similar behavior? My husband thinks maybe she has worms causing it.

[catsmom21]

If you think she is at risk for parasites, please take her to the vet. Bring a stool sample with you.

However, this sounds more like Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome (FHS) to me. You can google information about it, a lot more is known now than in the past, though there are still many vets who have never heard of it.

I recommend you video some of her episodes and bring these videos with you when you take her to the vet. Arm yourself with a lot of info about FHS. It can take time to sort out the useful from the crock of bull stuff.

Important true things: improving diet is sometimes all that is needed to stop the episodes. Feeding a balanced raw diet is best, with canned foods containing no junk, sugar, grains or dyes, or anything else artificial, a close second. (grains, especially these days with all the mycotoxins are to be avoided at all costs. At ALL costs)

Read pet food labels carefully.

Some cats need to be medicated. Vets may suggest prozac (fluoxetine) or amitriptyline first, with phenobarbital as a last resort for very serious cases.

Do not, under any circumstances let a vet talk you into amputating the tail of your cat. This is a drastic measure and it is never an improvement.

But I would start with diet. Hope you have a good vet who understands feline nutrition!

[catsmom21]

PS there is one other medication I forgot to mention that some people have had luck with. Gabapentin.

[mawipafl]

Agreeing with catsmom21. Kittens might chase their tails because they don't know they are a body part, just something moving, and it is comical to watch. A good bite on their tails teaches them quickly, and that's the end of that. But an older cat doesn't play with its tail nor flick it around then run like you described unless there is pain or discomfort somewhere in the body. Definitely put a vet visit on your agenda.