Welcome to our “Ask Dr. Paola” series, where every Monday we bring expert advice straight from Dr. Paola Cuevas (MVZ) to help our readers better understand their cat’s health and well-being.

Whether you’re a new pet parent or a seasoned cat lover, Dr. Paola is here to provide answers to your most pressing questions. From nutrition tips and preventive care to troubleshooting common behavioral issues, Dr. Paola is ready to offer insights that will keep your kitty happy, healthy, and feline fine. Stay tuned for expert guidance on a range of topics that matter most to you and your cat, so you can make informed decisions and provide the best possible care for your furry companion. ‎

Have‎ a ‎question? Send it in here!

Help! My Cat Seeks My Attention!

“Hi Dr Paola!

My cat, Jellybean (aka Meepie), purrs very loudly when I pet her. She will chase my hands until I pet her and she gets in the way of projects. She doesn’t do this for anyone else. I live at a different house for two-thirds of the time; could that be the reason? Does she just miss me?”

– Eve

Hi Eve,

Yes, that very likely plays a role. Cats form strong social bonds, even though they show affection differently from dogs. Jellybean’s loud purring, hand-chasing, and insistence on being involved in your activities are classic signs of social attachment and positive association. In her mind, you are probably her emotional charging station. Because you are gone part of the time, reconnecting with you may feel especially important to her, almost like topping up her social battery after a period of waiting.

The fact that she reserves this behavior mainly for you is also meaningful. Cats often develop “preferred person” relationships based on predictability, gentle interaction, scent familiarity, and emotional safety. Many cats become more demonstrative with the individual they trust most, especially if that person engages in calm petting, routines, or positive reinforcement. As long as Jellybean is otherwise eating, resting, grooming, and using the litter box normally, this sounds much more like affection and attachment than a behavioral concern. Her participation in your projects is probably her version of saying, “Whatever this activity is, we are apparently doing it together.”

– Best, Dr. Paola

Help! My Cat is Obsessed with Chewing on Plastic!

“Dear Dr Paola,

My cat Pompom is obsessed with chewing on plastic. What should I do?”

Andrew

Hey Andrew,

Plastic chewing is surprisingly common in cats, especially in individuals who are curious, highly food-motivated, or prone to repetitive comfort behaviors. Some cats are drawn to the texture, sound, or even residues left on bags and packaging. In other cases, it can be linked to stress, boredom, early weaning, or a compulsive tendency similar to wool-sucking. Think of it a bit like a person absentmindedly chewing on a pen cap during the day, except cats can get themselves into trouble much faster if pieces are swallowed.

Because ingesting plastic can lead to gastrointestinal obstruction or irritation, management is important even if Pompom seems otherwise healthy. Try to keep soft plastics, bags, wrappers, and cords out of reach, and redirect the behavior toward safer outlets such as food puzzles, scheduled play sessions, chew-safe cat toys, or foraging activities. If the chewing becomes intense, suddenly worsens, or is accompanied by vomiting, appetite changes, weight loss, or chewing non-food items often, a veterinary visit is worthwhile to rule out underlying medical or nutritional contributors.

Sincerely,

– Dr. Paola

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Help! My Cat Is Licking the Walls!

“Hi there Dr Paola,

Our calico cat Louise has taken to licking walls, faux-wooden doors, and whatever else happens to be nearby. I am concerned both about this odd behavior and its potential impact on her health. Please advise!”

Nancy

Dear Nancy,

Louise’s behavior may look quirky, but persistent licking of walls, doors, or other household surfaces can sometimes point to an underlying issue worth investigating. Cats may develop repetitive licking behaviors from stress, anxiety, boredom, gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, dental disease, or, less commonly, neurologic conditions. Some cats also become very focused on textures or residues on surfaces, especially if cleaning products, cooking oils, or dust are present.

Because household surfaces may contain chemicals, paint residues, adhesives, or splinters, it is best not to ignore the habit. A veterinary examination is important if Louise is licking daily, swallowing non-food material, vomiting, drooling, losing weight, or showing changes in appetite or behavior. In the meantime, increasing enrichment can help. Interactive play, food puzzles, climbing spaces, and predictable routines often reduce repetitive behaviors in cats. Cleaning surfaces with pet-safe products and redirecting her toward safe oral activities, such as dental treats or textured cat toys, may also decrease the urge to lick inappropriate objects.

I hope this helps!

– Dr. Paola