How to keep Milo, a Dublin cat, from nibbling on the houseplants

DEAR JOAN: Is there something that can be sprayed on an indoor plant (with no harm) that will keep my cat, Milo, from nibbling on the leaves?

— Linda Rhoades, Dublin

DEAR LINDA: This is a timely question considering many of us are putting up Christmas trees, poinsettias and other items that are, of course, for the exclusive use of our cats. Or at least that’s how they see it. Protecting Christmas trees is a whole column in itself, so I’ll just stick to houseplants.

You have two main options. The first is to put the plants out of reach, which is easier said than done. The best option is to hang them – the plants, not the cats –  from the ceiling, away from furniture and structures that can be used to gain access. You also have to consider the health of the plant. Hanging from the ceiling might not give them enough access to natural light.

Your second choice is to spray your plants with something that makes them unappealing. There are several products on the market that promise to do that. They mostly rely on bitter tastes and smells. They won’t hurt the plant, they won’t hurt the cat, and they work well for discouraging nibbling.

You also can make your own by mixing water with a little lemon, lime or orange juice, and spritzing the plants. Cats generally don’t like the smell or taste of citrus, so this is an effective deterrent.

Cats are classified as obligate carnivores, which means they not only prefer meat to vegetables, they require it to have a healthy life. Cats can have issues digesting vegetables, but some like a little taste now and then, especially if they aren’t feeling well. Because of that, you might want to plant a small pot of kitty greens that Milo can sample when he wants and needs. It also might help turn his interest away from your house plants.

DEAR JOAN: My 16-year old cat, Sophie, has suddenly started licking me avidly – face, hands and arms, often in the middle of the night. Is she expressing her deep love and appreciation for my human companionship (and warm lap, kibble and a clean litter box) or is something else going on?

— Kathy, Walnut Creek

DEAR KATHY: There are a few reasons why cats lick us. The first is the most benign – Sophie has deep affection for you and wants to show it by trying to groom you, as a mother cat does for her kittens.

Cats also will engage in excessive licking, if they are feeling stressed. Have there been changes in the household that might have Sophie on edge? It could be as simple as rearranging the furniture or as complex as a new person coming into the home or an old friend who’s left.

Sophie might also be enjoying the taste of you, and no, she’s not considering anything nefarious. Cats are keen on smells, and if you’ve changed your lotion, shampoo, perfume or even laundry soap, Sophie might be reacting to it.

Just to be safe, you should drop by your vet’s office and get Sophie a check-up. Anytime a pet has a significant change in behavior, you should consult your vet. There could be a health issue or maybe something connected with her age.

Animal Life runs on Mondays. Reach Joan Morris at AskJoanMorris@gmail.com.