How To Stop a Cat from Wool Sucking

You may notice that your cat likes to suck, lick, and chew on wool and fabrics with a similar texture. It is commonly known as wool sucking, although your particular cat may prefer other materials. Some cats only do it occasionally, while for others it is a compulsive daily habit. Though it may seem like a harmless habit, in fact wool sucking can injure your cat as they ingest the fibers, which can cause intestinal obstructions and other health issues. Here's how to stop a cat from wool sucking:

1. Understand the reasons for wool sucking. Many experts believe that this is a reaction to having been weaned too early from the mother. If you notice this habit in young kittens, this is a problem in itself. Make sure that they are getting the proper nutrition, particularly if they have been separated from their mother.
2. Consistent discipline. Every time you notice your cat sucking on fabrics, tap your cat gently on the nose, or use a small squirt from a water bottle, along with a firm "No" until they stop doing it. Be sure to do this every time you see your cat sucking or chewing on fabrics. Be warned, however, that depending on the reasons your cat is sucking wool, it may be an involuntary habit that no amount of discipline will stop.
3. Store away the things your cat sucks on. Does your cat suck on any fabric items, or one or two items in particular? If their actions seem concentrated on one item or material, put these away to stop the temptation for your cat. Do not leave clothing around your home, especially when you're not there to watch your cat's behavior.
4. Re-examine your cat's diet. According to one theory, cats suck on wool because they are missing something in their diet. Be sure that you are feeding high-quality cat food with plenty of fiber.
5. Use unpleasant odors or tastes. There are many products out there that are non-toxic yet smell or taste unpleasant. Apply these products, such as bitter apple spray or hot sauce, to any item your cat likes to chew, lick, or suck to discourage this behavior. This is often effective where simple discipline was not.
6. Entertain your cat. Some cats wool-sucking habits only come out when they are bored. Keep your cat entertained by playing with them and leaving them toys so that they won't get bored enough to start sucking on wool. Some cats may stuck on wool when they are stressed, so be sure to pay plenty of attention to your cat and try to reduce their stress levels.
7. Provide alternatives. Giving them chew toys (like the kind meant for dogs) can be a way to keep them from chewing on fabrics. Your cat may be satisfied with the toy and decide to leave everything else alone.
8. Visit the vet. Compulsive wool sucking may require veterinary intervention. There are anti-anxiety medications and other types that may help in stopping this behavior. Also visit your vet if you know that your cat sucks on wool and you notice vomiting, reduced appetite, or that your cat is not using the litter box, as these can be signs of an intestinal blockage due to ingesting these materials.

Cats may suck on wool for many different reasons. Some breeds, including the Siamese, seem to have a genetic pre-disposition to wool sucking. Other cats may be lacking dietary fiber, or have missed out on the suckling action as young kittens. Whatever the cause, wool sucking is an activity that should be stopped as soon as possible, because it does pose a danger to your cat's health.