My cat attacks its tail, hisses, and wounds itself. What's the cause?

Question

My cat is about 1.5 years old and within the past few months has started doing this strange hissing/growling thing while also running in circles and seems to be scared of/attacking his own tail. Recently, I noticed he had a wound on his tail from attacking it. The vet claimed he just has anxiety and he has been on Prozac for about 1.5 weeks. Yesterday, he was screeching & attacking his tail more aggressively than before & wounded himself again in the same spot. Is it anxiety or something else? Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | neutered | 12 lbs

Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA · Accepted Answer

Poor Maxwell! This sounds like it could be something called feline hyperesthesia syndrome. This problem is not well-understood, but is thought to be linked to abnormal pain perception and hypersensitivity in the lower back and tail area. Here is a link to an article on this syndrome with more information: http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=3000 I have also seen similar behavior in cats with a slipped or herniated disc in their back, or with certain types of skin conditions. Depending on the underlying problem, medication options that may be helpful include steroids such as prednisone, pain medication such a gabapentin, and/or anti-seizure medication such as phenobarbital in some cases. If the Prozac hasn't helped, I would recommend calling your veterinarian to see what he/she recommends as the next step for Maxwell, or seeking a second opinion from another local vet if you prefer.

My cat attacks its tail, hisses, and wounds itself. What's the cause?

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