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Seal point Birman cat sitting beside a couch cushion with torn fabric and stuffing, looking away from the viewer. 9 / 24

Birman Cat Studies the Wall While the Cushion Tells the Story

AI imagebirman catcouch cushionliving room

The Birman is looking pointedly in the other direction. Beside her, a couch cushion has been chewed open at the corner, with ragged fabric and tufts of white stuffing spilling out onto the cushion and the floor. A warm lamp glows behind them and the room is quiet, except for the sound of a cat who definitely did not do this. Her blue eyes are turned away, her dark ears angled back, and her white paws are tucked neatly under her.

Cats and dogs both chew, but cats usually do it for specific reasons. Kittens chew while their teeth come in, and adult cats may chew from boredom, stress, or simply because they like the texture of fabric. Some cats are drawn to certain materials, and a worn corner on a cushion can look like an invitation. Offering safe chew toys, cat grass, and plenty of play can help, and so can keeping an eye on changes in routine that might be bothering your cat. Swallowed stuffing can cause trouble inside a cat, so if you think she ate some, or if the chewing suddenly increases, talk to your vet.

She has settled into the sort of dignified silence that cats are very good at. If she can avoid eye contact long enough, perhaps the cushion will fix itself. The sewing kit may be needed, but the family will probably forgive her by dinner.

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