Does Munchausen Syndrome Exists in Pets?

What is Munchausen Syndrome? If this disorder occurs in pets, why do they exhibit these behaviors, and are owners to blame?

By Donna Sarkar
Nov 30, 2023 2:00 PM
human hand giving gray cat a red pill
(Credit: Billion Photos/Shutterstock)

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Our pets' inability to communicate through words gives us the upper hand in the relationship. This includes assuming a caretaker position where we're responsible for everything from food, water, and shelter to caring for them when sick. 

While our pets deserve the best care, it can be hard to determine the severity of their injuries or ailments, especially if your pet is known to be a little dramaticFor example, some dogs have pretended to cough because they know they'll get attention for it.

Similarly, it's also possible for us as owners to take caretaking a tad too far by coddling pets or taking our pets everywhere so the pet doesn't have to be left at home.

But what is the psychology behind these behaviors of dramatic pets and overly obsessive pet owners? Well, the answer may lie in a behavioral disorder called Munchausen syndrome.

What Is Munchausen Syndrome?

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