What should I do with the wallpaper after my cat shredded it? - briefly
If your cat has shredded your wallpaper, promptly remove any loose pieces to prevent further damage and potential ingestion by your pet. Consider reapplying a fresh layer of wallpaper or painting the wall as a more durable alternative.
What should I do with the wallpaper after my cat shredded it? - in detail
When faced with the unfortunate situation of your cat shredding your wallpaper, there are several steps you can take to address the issue effectively.
Firstly, assess the extent of the damage. If the shredding is minimal and confined to a small area, it might be possible to repair the wallpaper without having to replace the entire section. For minor tears or holes, use a small brush and some wallpaper adhesive to carefully apply a patch from another piece of the same wallpaper. Ensure that the pattern matches seamlessly with the surrounding area.
If the damage is more extensive, you may need to remove the affected section entirely and replace it with new wallpaper. Start by carefully cutting away the shredded portion using a sharp utility knife. Be cautious not to damage the wall beneath the wallpaper. Once removed, clean the wall surface thoroughly to remove any residual adhesive or dirt.
Before applying the new wallpaper, make sure it is from the same batch as the original to ensure a perfect match in color and pattern. Measure the area where the old wallpaper was removed, cut the new piece to size, and apply a generous amount of wallpaper adhesive to both the wall and the back of the new section. Smooth out any air bubbles or wrinkles as you press the new wallpaper into place.
If your cat's shredding habits are persistent, it might be worth considering alternative wall coverings that are more resistant to damage. Options such as vinyl or textured wallpapers may be less appealing to your cat and can withstand minor scratches better than traditional paper wallpapers.
Additionally, it's important to address the behavioral aspect of the issue. Cats often shred wallpaper due to boredom, stress, or a lack of appropriate scratching surfaces. Provide your cat with designated scratching posts or pads, ideally covered in materials like sisal or cardboard that they find appealing. Place these near areas where they tend to scratch and reward them when they use the designated posts instead of the wallpaper.
By following these steps, you can effectively address the damage caused by your cat's shredding habits and take proactive measures to prevent future incidents.