Ask Dr. Paola - Wall Staring, Knocking & Obsessive Licking (June 23, 2025)

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 Stares at the Wall!

“Sometimes my cat Daisy just stares at the wall for ages like she's seeing something I can’t. Should I be concerned, or is this just normal cat behavior? ” - Daniel

Hi Daniel,

Thank you for paying such close attention to Daisy’s behavior. Cats are fascinating creatures with senses far more refined than ours. When Daisy stares at the wall for long periods, it’s likely just her reacting to something we can’t perceive. Her hearing is much more sensitive than ours, so she might be picking up on high-frequency sounds from within the walls, like the rustling of tiny insects or even rodents. Similarly, her sense of smell is incredibly sharp and may alert her to the presence of another animal nearby, even if it's hidden from view.

This kind of behavior is usually just a reflection of a cat's natural hunting instincts and acute awareness of her environment. However, if Daisy seems to fixate a lot, or if this is accompanied by unusual signs like disorientation, twitching, or changes in behavior or coordination, it would be wise to have her checked by your veterinarian to rule out neurological issues or vision problems. If she otherwise seems healthy and content, this is likely just a part of her feline detective work. If you're ever unsure or need peace of mind, a quick call with one of our veterinarians at PangoVet could help assess whether something more serious might be going on.

Best wishes!
Dr. Paola

Help! My Cat Loves to Knock Things Over!

"Dear Dr. Paola,

My cat Mildred has a habit of knocking things off tables or shelves—cups, pens, whatever she can find. Why do cats do this? " - Christy

Hi Christy,

What you’re describing is a very common feline behavior, and while it can be a bit frustrating, it actually makes perfect sense from a cat’s point of view. Cats are naturally curious, and their paws are incredibly sensitive. Knocking objects off surfaces is a way for them to explore their environment and understand how things respond to their touch. It’s a bit like a toddler touching everything in reach to learn about the world. For many cats, it’s just entertaining, mentally stimulating, or even fun.

This behavior could also be Mildred’s way of seeking your attention. If she notices that knocking something over consistently gets a reaction from you, even if it's just a scolding or startled look, she may repeat it because it draws your attention. To help redirect this behavior, try enriching her environment with toys she can bat around safely. Remember that nurturing a relationship with your pet requires consistency; set aside some of your time each day for interactive play with Mildred.

Another simple solution is to keep frequently targeted surfaces clear. You can also use museum putty or silicone adhesive to secure small or breakable objects. If you're ever unsure whether her actions are behavioral or possibly related to an underlying issue like stress or boredom, try an online telehealth consultation. The veterinarians will be happy to guide you and give specific tips for Mildred.

Sincerely,
Dr. Paola

Help! My Cat is Obsessed with Licking Plastic Bags!

“My cat, Mr Fluffy, is obsessed with licking plastic bags and packaging. Is that safe? Why might he be doing this? ?” – Deborah

Hi Deborah,

Thank you for bringing up Mr. Fluffy’s plastic-licking behavior. When a cat shows this kind of interest in non-food items, especially in a repetitive and focused way, it often has emotional or developmental roots. In many cases, it’s a form of suckling that stems from early weaning or a strong need for comfort. Plastic can mimic the texture or resistance of a teat, and the act of suckling helps some cats feel safe and calm, almost like a child with a pacifier.

While the behavior may appear soothing to him, it’s not considered safe. Even if he isn’t actively chewing or swallowing the plastic, there’s a real risk that he might eventually ingest small pieces or come into contact with residues or chemicals on the surface. This could lead to digestive upset, choking, or even intestinal blockage.

I recommend redirecting this urge toward soft toys designed for suckling and keeping plastic items out of his reach. If the behavior is frequent or seems to be escalating, a consultation with one of our PangoVet veterinarians can be a good next step to explore behavioral strategies and check for underlying causes that might need attention. Your awareness of Mr Fluffy's behavior is a powerful tool in keeping him both content and safe. Keep it up, and don’t be afraid to ask for professional advice.

Good Luck!
Dr. Paola