Last updated on: November 15, 2023 by Crystal Uys
Cat owners love watching their kittens play with the toys they buy for them. It’s fun watching them hit things and trying to figure out how to catch that stuffed mouse hanging on a string or watching them desperately try to catch the red dot on the floor that keeps moving. But sometimes the toys you buy don’t hold a candle to a good old plastic bag. Cats seem attracted to them, so why do cats like plastic bags so much? Well, there are several reasons for this behavior, but they stem from the smell and sound of plastic bags.
There’s more to discover about why cats like the smell and sound, so read on to learn more about this behavior and the potential dangers of cats playing with plastic bags.
The 5 reasons why cats love plastic bags:
1. Cats love sound
Plastic bags make a crinkling sound that cats love. Cats, especially indoor cats, are not regularly exposed to such objects, and the sound alone will pique your cat’s interest in investigating. Cats have a keen sense of hearing, and given their curious nature, sound will catch their attention every time.
Plastic bags also have a mind of their own in a cat’s eyes, and when a plastic bag moves in a slight breeze, your cat won’t be able to resist playing with it. unusual object.
2. They like the smell
When you come home from the grocery store and empty the plastic bags, your cat will smell the food that was once inside, leading him to investigate. Additionally, your cat will likely smell the chemicals that plastic bags are made of. Many plastic bags are made from cornstarch, stearates (stearate acid salts), or even animal by-products, like gelatin, which will pique your cat’s interest.
3. It’s the thrill of chewing
Cats also like to chew on plastic bags for several reasons. On the one hand, the smell mentioned above entices your cat to chew on the bags. When your cat goes in to examine the plastic bag, the smell of the food alone will cause him to nibble on it in an attempt to taste that delicious smell. Second, the substances some bags are coated with will make your cat want to chew.
Finally, chewing a plastic bag may be due to a dental problem. The feel of plastic can soothe sore gums, and if you suspect it, a trip to your veterinarian is warranted to check things out. Your cat may have a dental problem that needs to be addressed, and it’s not something to ignore.
4. They love texture
Touch is a powerful tool that cats can use to explore the world around them, and the feel of plastic appeals to them. Cats are tactile creatures, and the slippery, smooth texture provides cats with a unique sensory experience compared to everyday objects they are already accustomed to, like fabric or paper. Simply put, cats love the feeling of a smooth, slippery texture because it gives them a satisfying tactile sensation.
5. They love to sit on plastic bags
Have you ever seen your cat sitting on a plastic bag? If so, there is a reason for it. Given the smooth texture, cats may find this feeling comforting. Plastic bags seem to offer a feeling of security, almost like being wrapped in a warm blanket. They can also provide a sense of privacy for your cat.
The dangers of plastic bags and cats
Although it may seem harmless to let your cat play with plastic bags, an important question to ask is: Is it safe to let your cat play with them? Unfortunately, a plastic bag is it’s not the safest object to let your cat play with.
Plastic bags pose health risks to cats, especially if your cat likes to chew on them. When your cat chews or nibbles on plastic bags, pieces may break off, which can lead to a choking hazard or intestinal blockages. There is also the possibility of suffocation if your cat gets tangled in one.
How to protect your cat from plastic bags
The best way to protect your cat from plastic bags is to simply keep them out of reach. Even if your cat seems to enjoy playing with it, their safety comes first. If your cat is attracted to plastic bags, you may need to reevaluate its enrichment.
For example, be sure to provide your cat lots of toys for mental stimulation. This could be one reason why your cat is attracted to plastic bags. Your cat may simply be bored. Food puzzles or ball mazes are excellent choices for providing your cat with daily enrichment and preventing boredom.
Final Thoughts
Although it may seem fun, it is best to avoid letting your cat play with plastic bags. Instead, opt for toys that can stimulate the same sounds and textures offered by plastic bags, like crinkle balls or tunnel toys to explore. Ensure your cat’s dental health is also under control, because a dental problem can also be a reason for chewing plastic. Remember to keep your cat’s daily enrichment at the forefront and keep plastic bags put away and out of reach for your cat’s safety.
Featured image credit: Miss Zea, Shutterstock
About the Author
Mom cat to Ivy – a feisty little rescue kitten who is her one and only child. For the moment! Throughout her life, she was introduced to the special love found in the bond with a cat. Having owned several felines, she is more than certain that their love is unmatched, unconditional and unlike any other. Passionate about educating the public about everything there is to know about felines, their behavior and their unique personalities, Crystal is dedicated to ensuring that all cats and their owners know the importance of mindful living – and to love!