Oriental breeds of cats are more likely to develop a compulsive chewing problem. Cats that are experiencing stress—such as moving to a new home or a new baby in the house—are also more at risk to develop a compulsive chewing problem. [3] X Research source Domestic Animal Behavior for Veterinarians and Animal Scientists. Katherine A. Houpt. John Wiley & Sons. 2011
Boredom can also cause a cat to chew. [5] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source
Even a behavior like chewing on a plant can have an associated medical explanation. Indoor cats especially with few grasses in their diet may simply chew on plants because they’re craving greens. [8] X Research source
A strong “no” at the same time will also help the cat learn that word.
You can also look into products that deliver a repellant spray via a motion sensor. Another option is to place the object on a “scat mat,” which is a product that delivers an electrical tingle into the cat’s paws when it steps on it.
Make sure you especially move plants that would be toxic for the cat to chew. Some common examples include caladium, dumb cane, English ivy, lilies, mistletoe, oleanders, and philodendrons. [15] X Research source
Teach your cat recall behavior. When you see your cat going over to chew on something, call them over to you. [20] X Expert Source Carrie Seay, MS-CABAC, KPA-CTP, CBCC-KAFeline Behavior Consultant Expert Interview. 1 March 2022.
If you give the cat a chicken wing, ensure that it’s uncooked since the cooked bones can splinter and cause complications if ingested. [23] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source Always supervise your cat when allowing it to eat chicken wings or rawhide. [24] X Trustworthy Source American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Leading organization dedicated to the prevention of animal cruelty Go to source
Providing perches, cat towers, or similar items in strategic places will help your cat get a better view out the windows, and the cat furniture itself is another form of enrichment, especially if you buy one with dangling catnip toys. [26] X Research source [27] X Research source
If you don’t have access to an enclosed outdoor space, you can also use a harness and a leash for your cat when playing outdoors. [29] X Research source
A scratching post or cardboard scratch pads. You can also sprinkle the post or pads with catnip to make them even more irresistible to your cat. Dry treats hidden around your home. By hiding treats in a few different rooms that are accessible to the cat, you can ensure that your pet stalks around these rooms searching for the treats rather than spending time getting bored and chewing on something it shouldn’t.
