Why do cats gnaw on blankets? - briefly
Cats often chew on blankets as a form of oral fixation, similar to thumb-sucking in humans. This behavior can be attributed to their natural instincts and is typically not a cause for concern unless it becomes excessive or leads to damage.
Why do cats gnaw on blankets? - in detail
Cats may exhibit the behavior of gnawing or chewing on blankets due to several reasons, each tied to their natural instincts and behaviors.
Firstly, this behavior can be traced back to a cat's predatory nature. In the wild, cats often kill their prey by biting into its neck to sever the spinal cord. This instinctual action is sometimes transferred to blankets or other soft materials that mimic the texture and feel of fur. The act of gnawing can serve as a form of playful hunting practice for indoor cats.
Secondly, cats use their mouths to explore their environment. Their whiskers and mouth are equipped with sensory receptors that help them gather information about their surroundings. By chewing on blankets, they may be attempting to understand the texture, taste, or scent of the material. This behavior is akin to how humans might touch or smell something new to learn more about it.
Another possible reason for this behavior is stress relief or anxiety reduction. Cats may engage in repetitive behaviors such as chewing, licking, or kneading as a coping mechanism when they feel anxious or stressed. If a cat is experiencing changes in its environment, such as new furniture or the presence of other pets, it might turn to familiar objects like blankets for comfort and stress relief.
Additionally, cats may chew on blankets due to teething discomfort if they are young kittens. During the teething process, kittens experience pain and irritation as their baby teeth fall out and adult teeth come in. Chewing on soft materials can help alleviate some of this discomfort.
Lastly, cats might chew on blankets as a form of marking territory. Cats have scent glands on the roof of their mouths that they use to mark objects with their saliva. By chewing on a blanket, a cat is essentially leaving its scent behind, signaling to other animals that this area belongs to it.
In conclusion, while the behavior of cats gnawing on blankets may seem peculiar to humans, it is deeply rooted in their natural instincts and behaviors. Understanding these reasons can help pet owners provide appropriate outlets for their cats' needs and maintain a harmonious living environment.