How to Remove Adhesive Tape From a Cat

However your cat got wrapped up in adhesive tape, removing it could prove hazardous. With a lot of tape, a trip to the vet could prevent scars and be kinder to your cat. Alternatively, ask a vet if there is an effective anesthetic you could use at home. For small amounts of tape, use a baking soda paste to release the adhesive from your cat's hair. With a lot of tape, use very sharp scissors and a lot of patience.

Things You'll Need

  • Claw trimmer
  • Baking soda
  • Water
  • Zoff
  • Sharp nail scissors
  • Large towel
  • Catnip
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Instructions

  1. Protection

    • 1

      Trim your cat's claws.

    • 2

      Wrap your cat firmly in a large towel if tape is near her eyes, nose or around her mouth to keep her still while you remove the tape.

    • 3

      Wear gloves, long sleeves and long pants.

    • 4

      Enlist help if your cat gets nervous. One person can hold and reassure him while the other maneuvers for the best angle to remove the tape.

    Adhesive Remover

    • 5

      Moisten baking soda with water to make a paste.

    • 6

      Put your cat on a surface in an enclosed room.

    • 7

      Rub paste on the underside of the tape.

    • 8

      Reassure your cat while waiting for adhesive to dissolve. Tape will come free easily. Test by pulling gently. Reapply paste if needed.

    • 9

      Apply Zoff adhesive remover to the tape and let soak in (it is available in Australia and the UK). Pull the tape free when the adhesive is dissolved.

    Before Cutting

    • 10

      Assemble short-bladed scissors like nail scissors and a large towel in a small, enclosed room with a door.

    • 11

      Give your cat catnip to eat or roll in, or administer a tranquilizer from the vet. Allow time for the herb or drug to take effect. Pet your cat reassuringly and wait for her to relax.

    • 12

      Close the door to prevent escapes and eliminate distractions. Sit down and spread the towel on your lap.

    Cutting Tape

    • 13

      Put your cat on your lap and pet him while you examine the tape. If it is obstructing his breathing, ears or bodily functions, begin by freeing these.

    • 14

      Find a loose end of tape that you can lift up gently without causing the cat pain. Cut tape into small sections to make it easier to remove quickly. Move slowly and talk to your cat reassuringly.

    • 15

      Hold the tape and use small cuts to separate hair from tape with scissors. Cut hair close to tape to prevent cutting skin. Be careful not to pull the hair and cause pain. If your cat becomes alarmed, pet her until she relaxes before starting again.

    • 16

      Divide the removal into more than one session if there is a lot of tape. Remove any tape that is obstructing his movements first.