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Maliyah

She keeps chewing plastic every day for hours

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Coco
Cat, American Shorthair
3 years 6 months, Female
Issue details
Main concern
Behavior
Destructive behavior
Aggression
A new pet
Multiple times a day
Duration
12 month(s)
Ongoing
Other issues
Teeth
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Dr. Floore
Dr.Tail Vet

It sounds like your cat's recent behavior of chewing on plastic could be linked to the changes in her environment, such as the introduction of a new pet, or possibly due to discomfort from dental issues. Cats often chew on things out of curiosity, boredom, or stress, so it's important to address these potential causes.

To help manage this behavior, you might consider offering her a variety of toys and safe chewable items. Catnip toys, rubber toys, or dental chews can be excellent alternatives to redirect her chewing habits. Additionally, ensuring she has plenty of environmental enrichment can be beneficial. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and regular playtime can keep her engaged and help reduce stress.

Creating safe and quiet spaces for her to retreat to when she feels overwhelmed by the new pet can also be helpful. This can provide her with a sense of security and help minimize stress-related behaviors.

Given her dental issues, it would be wise to monitor her dental health closely. Check her mouth for any signs of discomfort, such as redness or swelling, and if you notice anything unusual, it might be worth discussing with your veterinarian.

Lastly, try to limit her access to plastic items to prevent her from chewing on them and potentially ingesting harmful materials.

If her behavior continues or if you observe any changes in her health or behavior, consulting with a veterinarian would be a prudent step to rule out any underlying issues. Please feel free to reach out if you have any further questions or need additional assistance. Thank you.