DEAR JOAN: We’ve had several cats and none have attempted to munch plastic tablecloths or plastic wrap, until the cat we have now. She also likes the fiber tape that shippers use.
Is it dangerous? How can we discourage that behavior?
— Marcia, Saratoga
DEAR MARCIA: That behavior is pretty common, but it can be dangerous and definitely needs to be stopped.
There are three main reasons your cat is attracted to plastic. Cats are curious creatures. Some cats like plastic because the texture feels interesting and makes crinkling sounds. Offer your cat other, safer toys to play with whenever you catch her pouncing on the plastic.
Cats may find plastic bags appealing because they’re often made with stearates, which are derivatives of animal fats. To your cat, they may smell delicious, and gnawing that bag might indicate a nutritional problem. Talk to your vet about your cat’s plastic obsession and whether a change of diet would help.
Your cat might also be suffering from a condition called pica, an obsession with eating things that are not edible. It can be brought on by stress, anxiety or boredom — or dental disease or anemia. Talk to your vet.
The big danger with plastic is that swallowed material can lead to intestinal blockages and land your cat in the animal hospital. For safety, you should remove the plastic items your cat is attracted to and keep other plastics out of reach. Whenever she starts eyeing the plastic, distract her with treats, catnip and toys.
DEAR JOAN: I am a 90-year-old man who lost his own Joan to cancer two years ago. So, today I live alone.
Some time ago I was given a 16-year-old female tortie named Sammee. I’ve always loved animals, with dogs being my favorite. Sammee changed that. She filled a big void in my life and made it feel good again.
I lost her recently to old age – she was 18. I doubt that I will ever find another Sammee, but I would like to find another tortie, preferably middle aged, perhaps 6 to 10 years old.
I read your column regularly and know you provide all kinds of advice to people. I was hoping you might be able to advise me as to the best way to find a middle-aged tortie who needs a home. I’d be very grateful for any help you might be able to give me.
— Joe, Redwood City
DEAR JOE: My deepest condolences on both of your losses. As you’ve discovered, having pets makes life better and can help overcome even the greatest sorrows.
The best place to start looking for a new companion is your local animal shelter and rescue groups. In your case, that would be Peninsula Humane Society and SPCA, 650-340-7022.
There also are several rescue groups, including Pets in Need, 650-367-1405; Nine Lives Foundation, 650-368-1365; Whis-Purr Rescue, 877-307-2747; Homeless Cat Network, 650-508-9013; and Humanimal Connection, 888-538-9402.
Call them, tell them what you’re looking for and see what they have to offer. As most of these groups are run by volunteers, it can take a few days for them to return calls, so be patient. Let me know what happens.
Animal Life runs on Mondays. Contact Joan Morris at AskJoanMorris@gmail.com.