Why Cats Chew on Plastic: Unraveling This Bizarre Behavior

Written by Anna Joseph
December 3, 2024

You walk into the room, and there’s your cat—chomping away on a plastic bag like it’s the finest delicacy.

Sound familiar?

While we love our quirky feline friends, some of their habits leave us scratching our heads, and this one’s a doozy.

So, what’s the deal with cats and plastic? Is it harmless curiosity, or is there something more to it?

Let’s uncover the reasons behind this bizarre behavior and how to keep your kitty safe. Trust me, there’s more to this than meets the eye!

1. Plastic Feels Fun! (And Sounds Even Better!)

Let’s start with the basics—plastic is an irresistible sensory delight for cats.

The Texture:
Some plastics, like grocery bags or bubble wrap, are soft, smooth, and stretchy—perfect for curious little teeth. The texture might even remind your cat of prey, triggering their natural hunting instincts.

The Sound:
Ever noticed how some plastics make that satisfying crinkle?
To your cat, it’s like the sound of prey rustling in the grass. It’s not just chewing; it’s an interactive sensory experience!

To your cat, plastic isn’t just trash—it’s a toy that tickles all their senses.

2. Smells Too Good to Be True

Even if you don’t smell it, your cat’s powerful nose might detect something delicious on that piece of plastic.

Food Residues:
Plastic bags and wrappers often carry lingering scents of food, no matter how clean they look. Your cat’s super-sniffer picks up every last whiff of chicken, fish, or cheese.

Animal-Based Additives:
Some plastics contain stearates (fancy name for animal-based ingredients), which can make them smell irresistible to cats.

In your cat’s mind, plastic isn’t just packaging—it’s a potential treasure trove of tasty surprises!

3. The Comfort Factor: Plastic as Stress Relief

Chewing on plastic isn’t always about curiosity; sometimes, it’s about feelings.

Stress and Anxiety:
When life gets overwhelming (think new pets, visitors, or changes in routine), some cats chew to cope. It’s like their version of stress-snacking.

Early Weaning:
Cats who were weaned too early often develop a habit of chewing or sucking on non-food items as a way to self-soothe.

So, the next time you catch your cat with a plastic bag, they might be trying to find a little comfort in a chaotic world.

4. A Dental SOS

Sometimes, chewing on plastic is less about fun and more about their teeth.

Sore Gums or Teeth:
If your cat has dental discomfort, soft plastics might provide a gentle massage for their aching gums.

Common Culprits:
Conditions like gingivitis or tooth resorption are common in cats, especially as they age. If you notice drooling or bad breath alongside the chewing, it’s time to schedule a dental check-up.

Chewing might be your cat’s way of saying, “Hey, my mouth needs some attention!”

5. Pica: When Chewing Becomes a Problem

Ever heard of pica? It’s a condition where cats eat non-food items, and plastic is often a favorite.

What Causes Pica?

Nutritional deficiencies might make your cat crave odd items.
Health issues like GI disorders or neurological conditions can also trigger it.
Boredom or stress might push them toward compulsive chewing habits.

If your cat is chewing obsessively and swallowing bits of plastic, it’s time to consult your vet.

6. Just Plain Curious

Not every cat has a deeper reason for chewing on plastic—sometimes, they’re just being, well, cats!

Exploration:
Cats are naturally curious, and plastic’s shiny, rustling, lightweight nature is hard to resist.

Playfulness:
For some cats, chewing on plastic is no different than batting a ball of yarn. It’s harmless fun—as long as they’re not swallowing it.

Even if it’s just innocent curiosity, it’s still a good idea to supervise and keep dangerous plastics out of reach.

The Dangers of Plastic Chewing

As cute as it might look, letting your cat chew on plastic isn’t a great idea.

Here’s why:

Choking Hazards:
Small pieces can break off and get lodged in their throat.

Intestinal Blockages:
Swallowed plastic can cause severe blockages that may need surgery to fix.

Toxic Chemicals:
Some plastics contain dyes and chemicals that are harmful when ingested.

Injuries:
Sharp or rigid plastics can cut your cat’s gums or damage their teeth.

How to Help Your Plastic-Loving Cat

If your cat can’t get enough of plastic, don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to curb the habit:

Remove Temptation:
Store plastic bags and wrappers in secure cabinets or bins. Out of sight, out of mind!

Offer Alternatives:
Replace the plastic with safe, cat-friendly chew toys. Look for toys with interesting textures or catnip to grab their attention.

Keep Them Busy:
Boredom leads to trouble, so keep your cat entertained with puzzle feeders, interactive toys, or good old-fashioned playtime.

Try Deterrents:
Spraying plastic items with pet-safe deterrents (like bitter apple) can make them less appealing to chew.

Consult Your Vet:
Chewing on plastic occasionally? No big deal. But if your cat seems obsessed or shows symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, it’s time to call in the pros. Your vet can rule out health issues and give you a tailored plan to address the behavior.

Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Curious Companion

Cats are quirky creatures, and chewing on plastic is just one of the many mysteries that make them so fascinating.

While it might seem harmless, understanding why they do it and taking steps to protect them can make all the difference.

Remember, your cat’s strange habits are just their way of navigating the world—and it’s up to us to keep them safe while they explore.

So, stash those plastic bags, grab a fun chew toy, and let your cat’s curiosity shine in a way that keeps them healthy and happy!

If you are interested to learn more about weird cat behaviors, check out this post on “Weird Cat Behaviors Explained-Why Cats Do the Strangest Things?”