Expert: Jessica - 12/8/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi,

My friend and I adopted a cat each from a pet shop. They are just some local cat who acted normal in the beginning. But because we are afraid that they might catch on any fleas so we kept them in the house most of the time.

Maybe they are just too bored that one of them started to have this very weird habit. He love cotton bud @ Q-tip so much that he will dig into the dustbin to 'hunt' for more. Why do i say hunt is because his behavior is like a cat hunting for a rat. As long as he didn't get his claw on it, he will continue digging with his eyes open so wide, like a hunting eyes. and his behavior cause a mess in the house. How do i stop this behavior?

ANSWER: Hi Caroline.  Surprisingly, Q-tips are a big attraction to cats.  They love to play with them.  If you like, you can toss your kitty a couple to play with while you are there to supervise.  Providing other appropriate toys, such as toy fur mice and soft balls, may also help.  But keeping the trash out of his reach is really the only way to stop him from making a mess.  If possible, keep the bathroom door closed at all times, or see if you can move the trash into a cupboard.  If not, a trash can with a secure lid on it may reduce his temptation.

Good luck!

Jessica



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Tq for the reply. ;)

Sometime I found the Q-tips without the cotton tips on it after he played with it, is it ok for the cat to swallow it?  

Answer
You should try to minimize how much cotton he swallows.  In significant amounts, it could cause a stomach blockage.  However, since cotton is a natural fiber, it is somewhat digestible, and most cats won't have any serious problems from swallowing small bits here or there.  Nonetheless, it's important that he be supervised if you do allow him to play with Q-tips, and you should throw them away if it seems like he's trying to eat the cotton.