If your cat is chewing more than normal, either his skin or things around the house other than food, make an appointment with your veterinarian. Typically, this is a behavioral disorder, and your veterinarian can give you advice on what to do to help him stop. The veterinarian will also perform a complete physical examination to check for any underlying physical conditions with his health. This is very important to do, because if an underlying health condition is causing the chewing, it will be important to treat it. Your cat may have dental issues, and chewing on odd items, such as plastic or the wooden leg of a chair, may help him feel better. He may also have gastrointestinal issues, and with an upset stomach he may feel he needs to chew on something “different” such as wool or carpet.
Your veterinarian will conduct laboratory testing on your cat. He may perform a urinalysis, biochemistry profile, and blood work. He may perform other tests to check for any nutritional deficiencies in your cat.
You also want to know when you noticed the excessive chewing, when it began, and other behaviors that accompany the excessive chewing, such as licking and over-grooming himself and possibly other cats. He will also want to know what he chews on, such as wood, wicker, fabric in the furniture, carpet, rugs, or bedding.
After the tests are complete, treatment will depend on the specific diagnosis. If your cat has a health condition, your veterinarian will explain the condition in full and communicate treatment options with you. If your veterinarian feels his chewing is a result of a behavioral issue, he will give you advice on how to treat this issue on your own or with the help of a behavioral therapist.