Why Do Cats Lick Plastic and Chew Wool? Pica and Fabric Sucking
Cats are fussy eaters, yet some will lick a plastic bag, chew a charger cable or suck a wool blanket as if it were food. This is called pica when it involves eating non-food items, and wool sucking when it focuses on fabric. It can be a harmless quirk, or a sign of a problem. It can also be dangerous.
What is pica?
Pica is the eating or chewing of non-food items. In cats, it includes plastic, rubber, cloth, wool, paper, cardboard, string, cords and even litter. Licking and chewing are more common than swallowing, but swallowing is the danger.
Why cats do it
Boredom and stress. A cat with too little stimulation or too much stress may develop oral habits. See indoor cat enrichment ideas and cat separation anxiety.
Early weaning. Kittens weaned too early may keep a need to suck. See how to wean kittens.
Breed tendency. Wool sucking is seen more often in Siamese, Burmese and other Oriental breeds, suggesting a genetic link. See the Siamese and Burmese profiles.
Taste and texture. Some plastics contain additives, such as gelatin or starch, that taste appealing. Cords and bags may have an attractive feel.
Dental or gum problems. Chewing may relieve pain. See cat dental disease and kitten teething.
Medical conditions. Anemia, hyperthyroidism, diabetes, gastrointestinal disease, neurological problems and nutritional deficiencies may play a role.
Compulsive disorder. Some cats develop repetitive behaviors, which can be hard to stop. See why do cats overgroom.
Attention seeking. If chewing gets a reaction, the cat may repeat it.
The dangers
- Intestinal blockage, if plastic, thread, string or fabric is swallowed. Signs include vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy and abdominal pain. This is an emergency. See cat vomiting causes and cat emergency warning signs.
- Linear foreign bodies, such as thread, which can cut the intestine.
- Electric shock from chewing cords.
- Toxins, from chemicals in plastics or fabrics.
- Choking.
See cat proofing your home and cats and christmas trees for hazards such as tinsel.
What to do
- See a vet. Rule out medical causes with an exam and blood tests, and check teeth. See cat wellness exam: what to expect.
- Remove temptations. Store plastic bags, cords, rubber bands and wool out of reach, in closed cupboards.
- Protect cords. Use cord covers, and unplug items. Apply a bitter taste deterrent made for pets, if the vet agrees.
- Offer safe alternatives. Provide cat grass, safe chew toys and dental treats. See how to grow cat grass and healthy cat treats.
- Increase play and exercise. See exercise for indoor cats.
- Add puzzle feeders. See puzzle feeders and slow feeders for cats.
- Reduce stress. Keep routines steady, and provide hiding places. See signs of stress in cats.
- Check diet. Ask your vet whether a higher-fiber diet may help. See how to read a cat food label.
- Do not punish. It increases stress.
When it is a compulsion
If your cat sucks or chews persistently, despite changes, ask your vet about a referral to a veterinary behaviorist. Medication may help some cats.
Kittens
Many kittens mouth things as they explore. Provide safe toys, and supervise. See kitten proofing your home.
Emergency signs
If you see your cat swallow plastic or string, or if it vomits repeatedly, see a vet at once. Do not pull any string you see hanging from the mouth or rear.
Cleaning up and long-term management
Changes that work best are consistent. Keep a clean home with few loose items, keep bags and wool in sealed boxes, and use deterrents on cords. Reward your cat when it chews appropriate items, and keep a stock of safe toys that you rotate. If your cat still seeks fabrics, offer a soft, washable blanket that it is allowed to suck, and wash it regularly. Check the cat's weight and stools, and watch for vomiting. Regular vet visits matter, since medical causes can appear over time.
Safe chewing options
Give your cat something it is allowed to chew. Cat grass is a favorite, as are dental chews and firm rubber toys designed for cats. Some cats like a piece of cooked, plain carrot or a raw chicken neck given under veterinary advice, though bones carry risks. See can cats eat bones. Supervise new items, and remove anything that breaks into pieces.
When to see a vet
See a vet if the behavior is new, frequent or if there are signs of illness. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my cat lick plastic bags?
Possibly because of the taste of additives, boredom, stress or a habit.
Is pica dangerous?
Yes, if the cat swallows objects, which can cause blockages.
Why does my cat suck on wool?
Often linked to early weaning, stress or compulsion, especially in Oriental breeds.
How do I stop it?
Remove temptations, increase play and consider a vet check.
Sources and further reading
Behavior problems often have medical or emotional roots. These specialist bodies explain how professionals assess them.
- Fear Free PetsLow-stress handling and care for dogs and cats.
- Ohio State Indoor Pet InitiativeResearch-based enrichment ideas for indoor cats and dogs.
- International Cat CareVeterinary-reviewed advice on feline health, behavior and welfare.
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