The rustle starts the moment you put the shopping down. Your cat is already inside the bag, licking it, chewing the handles, or tearing off little pieces. It looks funny, but plastic can choke a cat or block its gut. The good news is that most bag chewers have an understandable reason, and the habit can usually be managed.
Why cats chew plastic bags
The smell
Cat behaviour author Pam Johnson-Bennett explains that some plastic bags contain “slip agents” that can include stearic acid from animal fat, and that biodegradable corn starch bags may attract some cats too. Grocery bags can also hold the smell of meat or fish.
The texture and sound
Johnson-Bennett also points to the smooth, cool surface and the crinkly sound, which some cats find irresistible.
Boredom or stress
A cat without enough to do may turn to bags for stimulation, and chewing can be a stress relieving behaviour. If your cat also knocks things off tables for fun, boredom is a likely factor; see why cats knock things off tables.
A sore mouth
Johnson-Bennett notes that chewing plastic may be connected to mouth pain or a dental problem. The veterinary reference WikiVet also lists relieving oral pain among the medical reasons for repetitive chewing.
Chewing vs eating: what pica is
Licking or nibbling a bag is one thing. Swallowing pieces is more serious. Eating non-food items is called pica.
The same study found that sucking behaviour was linked with eating fabric. If your cat sucks on blankets as well, read our guide to a cat that sucks on blankets. WikiVet notes that chewing or sucking woolly items is most common in early weaned oriental breeds.
When to see the vet
How to stop your cat chewing plastic bags
- Remove access. Put bags away straight after shopping, in a closed cupboard or a lidded bin. This is the single most effective step.
- Switch bag types. Johnson-Bennett suggests paper or cloth bags instead.
- Check other plastics. Bread bags, cling film, packaging and phone chargers can be targets too.
- Offer safe things to chew. WikiVet suggests options such as dental cat food or large chews that cannot be swallowed whole. Cat grass is another option many owners use.
- Play every day. Short interactive sessions with a wand toy give your cat a hunting outlet.
- Make food more interesting. Puzzle feeders add work and interest to meals. If your cat ignores them, see what to do when a cat will not use a puzzle feeder.
- Look for stress. A new pet, a move or changes in routine can all increase chewing. Reducing stress helps.
| What your cat does | Level of concern | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Licks or sniffs bags | Low | Store bags away, offer play |
| Chews bags, does not swallow | Medium | Remove access, vet check of mouth |
| Swallows pieces | High | Vet visit, remove all access |
| Vomiting or not eating after chewing | Emergency | Call your vet now |
FAQ
Why does my cat lick and chew plastic bags?
Common reasons include the smell (some bags contain animal fat derived additives, and grocery bags hold food smells), the texture and sound, boredom, stress, and mouth pain.
Is it dangerous if my cat chews plastic?
Yes, it can be. Swallowed plastic can cause choking or a gut blockage, and bag handles can cause strangulation.
What is pica in cats?
Pica is eating non-food items. A 2016 study found the most common targets were shoelaces or threads, then plastic and fabric. Cats with pica should have a full vet check.
Can a medical problem cause plastic chewing?
Yes. Mouth or dental pain and conditions that increase appetite are among the medical reasons, which is why a vet check comes first.
What should I do if my cat ate plastic?
Call your vet, especially if your cat vomits, stops eating, strains, or seems in pain. Do not try to pull out anything hanging from the mouth or bottom.
Sources
This article is for general information and is not a substitute for advice from your veterinarian.
