February 11, 2009

Dear Obie,

Two of my kitties have chewing fetishes! Tigger likes to chew facial tissues and cotton anything, like the Christmas tree skirt. And Mo-mo likes to chew on plastic bags, the thicker the better. They get good quality food and plenty of water. Why do they do this? And is there anything I can do to get them to stop? Do I need to add a vitamin supplement to their diets?
Thanks, Obie!
Signed, Maria
Canton, Ohio


Dear Maria,
My big brother, Rockafeller, has the same problem with photographs; my humans have to make sure all photographs are put away or they'll get eaten! And he likes to chew on plastic laundry baskets; you ought to see the teeth marks all over them! Animal behaviorists are at a loss to explain this behavior, just as they can't explain why some cats will chew anything plastic, while others will ignore it altogether. I guess it's like humans, every kitty has its own peculiarities! Some animal specialists believe there is a slight chemical scent released from plastic that cats find fascinating, while others think the coolness and texture of the plastic, or photograph, on their tongue just feels good. Many plastic bags from grocery stores are made with corn starch, and some cats like that taste! Another school of thought is that some cats may be trying to nurse, and use the plastic, or material, as a substitute for good old mom! There was a kitty at Salem Friends of Felines named Mutti who would suck on people's shirts when they would hold her in their laps; I remember my human daddy coming out of the kitty room with little wet spots all over his shirt!

Cats that suckle on clothing or other items might have been weaned from their mothers too early in their lives. This is especially true in stray cats, who may lose their mother to cars or other dangers. Some cats will outgrow the behavior, and others will do it all their lives. In almost all cases, lack of vitamins or nutrition is not the issue; it is simply a behavior. If it is too much of a problem, you can put something on the material that a cat doesn't like the taste of, such as hair spray or citrus spray.

In all cases, especially with plastic bags, never allow your kitties to eat the plastic! It can become impacted in their intestines and make them really sick! So make sure all plastic bags, photographs, etc., are put away where kitty can't get to them!

Thanks for the email!
Your friend,
Obie

*****

Dear Obie,
My human mommy just took a new job in North Carolina and she tells me we will be moving soon. I'm scared! Please tell humans how to make moving easier on kitties like me!
Signed, Toby
Greeley, Colorado


Dear Toby,
Moving can be very scary, especially for a kitty who has lived in one home all its life. Home becomes familiar, with scents and sounds that we recognize as part of our every day lives. But humans can make a move easier on their kitties, and other pets, if they take a few simple precautions. My friends at the Humane Society recommend the following steps for humans moving with animals. First, pack your belongings for the move over a period of time, not all on one weekend. This will allow your pet to maintain its usual routines while adjusting to the fact that things are changing. Second, make sure you have a strong carrier for your pet to ride in, one that is large enough for them to move around comfortably. Get them used to being inside it, and maybe take them for short rides to accustom them to travel. Third, make sure you have ID tags for your pet! They need to have the pets name on them, an address and phone number where you can be reached, and a list of any medications or medical issues your pet might have. That tag will be your pet's ticket home in case you get separated, and may save your pet's life! Fourth, keep your pet secure during the actual move by placing them in a closed room with plenty of food and water, and a sign on the door that clearly states DO NOT OPEN! Make sure that movers or friends know to leave that door closed, and check on your pet frequently to make sure they are not becoming too stressed. Number Five, make sure your pet is safe during the actual move. Strap their carrier down with the seat belt, or, if your dog is used to the car, use a restraining harness to keep him safe in case of an accident. Never leave your pet in a car or truck alone, especially in summer, and never carry your pet in the bed of a pickup or the back of a moving truck. Six, talk to your vet. Your vet knows your pet, and may be able to prescribe a sedative if your pet gets really stressed during travel. And your vet might know of vaccinations or health certificates required by the state or country you are moving to. Seven, plan ahead for pet-friendly hotels along your route, and also for regulations if your pet will be flying. Make a list of all the things you need to do, so you are prepared in advance for any situation. And, finally, prepare your new home. Have all those things your pet will need, like litter boxes, food, water and toys, and have their favorite cushions or beds so they will feel at home as quickly as possible. And always have a recent photograph of your pet should they become lost!

Toby, I hope this helps your human make the move easier on you. Good luck in your new home!
Your friend,
Obie

*****

"After scolding one's cat, one looks into its face and is seized by the ugly suspicion that it understood every word, and has filed it for reference." - Charlotte Gray

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Remember, folks, I am not a vet! I am a cat! Always talk to your vet before making any medical decisions regarding your cat! Please!