If you own a cat or adore cats, you’ve likely observed their tendency to sit in various places. This is why the saying “If I fit, I sit” is so common. Whether it’s boxes, baskets, or any available space, they enjoy snuggling up in tight spots.One of the usual spots you may have discovered your adorable furry friend is on a plastic bag. So, what is the reason behind cats’ fondness for sitting on plastic bags?
Cats enjoy sitting on plastic bags because they stick to their bodies and provide a sense of security. Some people think that the chemicals on the bags attract their cats. Additionally, cats appreciate the warmth emitted by the bag when they lie on it.
No matter the reason, it’s widely agreed that cats really enjoy sitting on plastic bags. Keep reading to learn more about why your adorable companion is so fond of them.
Why Do Cats Hate the Sound of Plastic Bags
If you’ve ever changed your garbage bag with your cat around, you’ve likely seen them quickly run out of the room. Cats enjoy sitting on plastic bags, but sometimes the noise they make can frighten them.
When you shake a plastic bag to open it and put it in the trash can, the noise it makes can startle a cat. Cats are typically scared of sudden, loud sounds and will instinctively run away to find a safe place. It’s like when you turn on a vacuum cleaner. Cats don’t know what the noise is or that it’s not harmful. They simply hear the loud sound and think it’s best to leave the area!
Just like when a loud noise surprises us and we can figure out what it is and that we’re not in danger, cats can’t do that. They don’t have the same ability to reason like we do, so they instinctively go into survival mode.
Why Do Cats Like to Sit Inside Plastic Bags
Have you ever brought home your groceries and left a bag or two out after putting them away? If you own a cat, there’s a high possibility that you’ve discovered them inside that bag. Cats enjoy sitting on plastic bags, and they also enjoy sitting inside them.
Cats really enjoy snuggling up in tight spots. When they’re all cozied up in a plastic bag, it gives them a sense of safety and comfort. Cats have a natural instinct to be on the lookout for potential threats, and being in a small space like a plastic bag helps them feel more in charge and aware.
Similar to how cats enjoy cuddling with their mothers, they also enjoy snuggling and experiencing the bag enveloping their bodies. Despite the thinness of a plastic bag, it provides a sense of warmth due to the insulation of the plastic, which offers comfort.
Why Do Cats Lick Plastic Shopping Bags
I discovered a while back that cats really enjoy licking plastic, thanks to my furry friend. My cat had a strong liking for licking and chewing on any plastic he could find. There are a couple of theories explaining why cats are so fascinated by it.
There is a popular theory about the smells of food. Plastic bags have a tendency to retain the scent of whatever was inside them. If you went to the store and had chicken or fish in the bag, it would make sense that the cat is drawn to it. They don’t understand that the food is no longer in the bag, so they lick it in an attempt to get a taste.
There is a rumor that cats are attracted to some plastic bags because they are partially made from animal fat. If your cat is only interested in specific plastic products, this might be the reason. However, if your cat likes to lick all plastic equally, there could be other reasons for their obsession.
Another possible explanation is that cats sit on plastic bags because they feel anxious. Just like how humans might bite their nails or chew on their lip when they’re nervous, cats may chew and lick plastic bags to help relieve their anxiety.
Although it may not be the most enjoyable sight, it’s not harmful for your cat to lick plastic bags. The important thing to think about is whether there are any medical issues that are causing your cat to do this.
As we mentioned before, if your cat is licking excessively, it might be a good idea to have your vet check for anxiety or any other underlying issues that could be causing this behavior.
Additionally, make sure to monitor your cat when they are interacting with the plastic bag. If they are licking the interior of the bag and their head becomes trapped inside, the cat could potentially suffocate. Although this occurrence is not common, it is crucial to be vigilant. It is advisable to remove the handles from the bag and ensure that your cat does not get their head stuck, which could lead to choking.
How Do I Get My Cat To Stop Licking Plastic Bags
To prevent your cat from licking plastic bags, it is best to not leave them lying around. Instead, recycle the bags promptly after using them or find a secure place to store them where your cat cannot reach. Personally, I prefer keeping my plastic bags in a cabinet in my house that has a childproof lock on the door. This way, my cat cannot get to the bags, but I can still reuse them.
One surefire way to solve this problem is to completely stop using plastic bags. Instead, you can opt for reusable bags when you go grocery shopping. This is not only a fantastic alternative but also beneficial for the environment. You can easily find these bags at your nearby supermarket.
If your cat appears to lick plastic bags out of nervousness, try finding an alternative method to help them reduce their anxiety. Just like humans, engaging cats in physical activities can help alleviate stress and release their built-up energy. Discover a toy that your cat enjoys and dedicate some time each day to play with them. You might be pleasantly amazed by how much calmer they seem.
If you want to stop your cat from sitting on plastic bags, you can try using a pet deterrent spray. There are various products available that are designed to prevent scratching, chewing, and licking. By spraying a little bit of this product on the plastic bags, it might be effective in keeping your cat away from them.
Can A Cat Die From Eating Plastic
It’s not common for a cat to pass away from consuming plastic. Usually, plastic bits are not harmful. Cats usually don’t have a problem if they ingest a small piece of plastic. However, if they swallow a bigger piece that obstructs their intestines, it can become a problem. In such cases, the cat may require surgery to remove the blockage.
Another important aspect to be aware of is the kind of plastic that cats consume. For instance, if you observe them eating plastic that was previously used to contain toxic substances, such as the bag you might use to carry bleach or cleaning products, it is crucial to take action. These substances are harmful to animals in any case, so if any spillage occurs and the cat ingests it, it could potentially be detrimental to their well-being.
In general, cats really enjoy being around plastic. It’s reassuring to know that your furry friend is not the only one with this peculiar fascination. Make sure to keep an eye on your cat while they interact with the plastic to ensure their safety, and let them have fun!
You can also check this YouTube video about this topic:
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