-
Chewing Patterns
-
Cats that chew usually favor one type of object. Typical favorites are electrical cables, clothes, woolen products and wallpaper. They will lick wall coverings incessantly if they cannot actually chew. Siamese cats are particularly known for wool chewing. Young cats can be persistent chewers.
Causes
-
veterinarians, behaviorists and other animal experts debate why cats chew. Some chewing seems caused by anxiety, especially chewing items in the owner's absence or when receiving insufficient attention. Some cats chew when they need comfort. Some cats lick their owner a lot and chew their hair. This is possibly affectionate behavior--cats enjoys the comforting smell and taste of its owner.
Behavioral Treatments
-
Persistent chewing, especially with an attached danger such as chewing electrical cords, usually needs referral to a pet behaviorist. Some owners try physical deterrents like water-spray punishment or making loud noises. This isn't advised because this can add stress, and sudden scares make obsessive behavior worse.
Medication and Diet
-
Cats occasionally are given medication to halt persistent chewing, but behavioral treatments should be tried first. Clomipramine, a behavior-modifying drug, is helpful for obsessive behavior. Some cats respond to increased fiber, but as most chewing seems psychological, fiber doesn't always help.
Practical Steps
-
If your cat chews electrical cables, buy protective sheaths to encase them. These are inexpensive and simple to fit.
Give cats plenty of things to do when you're absent. Climbing frames or cat trees, treat balls, water fountains, catnip, toys, and lots of high, cozy places will distract him.
Ensure your cat receives plenty of affection at appropriate times.
-
Cat Chewing Behavior
A minority of cats show a tendency to chew on foreign objects. Not every chewing behavior is fully understood. Veterinarians and behaviorists sometimes cannot resolve the issue, although medications and behavioral treatments assist.