What to do when a cat tears wallpaper? - briefly
When your cat tears wallpaper, the first step is to gently remove them from the area to prevent further damage. Next, assess the extent of the damage and decide whether you can repair it yourself with a suitable wallpaper patch kit or if you need professional help.
What to do when a cat tears wallpaper? - in detail
When a cat tears wallpaper, it's important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage and maintain the aesthetics of your home. Here are some steps you can take:
-
Assess the Damage: Start by examining the torn area carefully. Determine the extent of the damage and whether the wallpaper is still intact in other areas. This will help you decide on the best course of action.
-
Calm Your Cat: Cats often scratch at wallpaper due to stress, boredom, or lack of proper scratching surfaces. Make sure your cat has a suitable scratching post or pad to redirect its behavior.
-
Remove Loose Edges: Using a sharp knife or scissors, carefully trim any loose edges around the tear. Be gentle to avoid causing more damage.
-
Clean the Area: Dust and clean the area where the wallpaper was torn. This will help ensure that the new piece adheres properly. Use a mild detergent and water solution, then let it dry completely.
-
Match the Pattern: If you have extra wallpaper from when you initially decorated, try to match the pattern as closely as possible. If not, you may need to remove the entire section of wallpaper and replace it with new paper.
-
Apply Wallpaper Paste: Use a brush to apply wallpaper paste evenly on both the wall and the replacement piece. Ensure that the area is well-covered but not overly saturated.
-
Align the New Piece: Carefully position the new piece of wallpaper so it aligns with the existing pattern. Use a straightedge or level to ensure it's properly aligned.
-
Smooth Out Air Bubbles: Once the new piece is in place, use a smoothing tool or a damp sponge to press out any air bubbles and ensure the wallpaper adheres smoothly to the wall.
-
Wipe Excess Paste: Use a damp cloth to wipe away any excess paste from the edges of the new piece and the surrounding area.
-
Allow to Dry: Let the area dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions before allowing your cat back into the room.
-
Prevent Future Damage: Consider placing a scratching post or pad near the wall where the damage occurred. This can help deter your cat from scratching at the wallpaper again in the future.
By following these steps, you can effectively repair torn wallpaper and prevent further damage caused by your cat's natural scratching behavior.