How To Keep Cat From Chewing Cords

As a cat owner, few things are more frustrating than finding your feline friend has chewed through yet another power cord.

Not only is it destructive, but it poses a serious risk to your cat’s safety. Understanding why cats are drawn to cords and how to stop the behavior is key to protecting your furry family member.

In this guide, we’ll cover the reasons for cord chewing, signs of electrical injury, and most importantly - tips to keep curious kitties away from dangerous wires. With some simple preventive steps, you can deter chewing and avoid potentially huge vet bills down the road. Let’s get started!

Why Do Cats Chew on Electrical Cords?

Contrary to what you might think, cats don’t chew cords out of spite or naughtiness. In fact, there are several explanations for this behavior:

• Prey drive - Cords resemble the tails or movements of prey animals. This triggers a cat’s instinct to pounce and bite.

• Teething - Kittens and juveniles chew while they’re teething. Cord chewing often starts at this stage.

• Boredom - Inactive or lonely cats may view cords as exciting distractions when they’re not getting enough stimulation.

• Compulsion - Certain breeds like Siamese compulsively chew objects. This may be a form of feline OCD.

• Pain relief - Cats with dental disease may chew cords to relieve mouth discomfort.

• Nutritional deficiency - Rarely, cats with a condition called pica crave and eat non-food items due to nutrient deficiencies.

• Stress relief - Chewing cords helps some anxious cats relieve tension.

So in most cases, it’s not a behavioral problem but rather natural feline instincts at work. Now let’s look at the risks of this behavior.

Dangers of Cord Chewing for Cats

Chewed electrical cords pose multiple dangers for curious cats:

• Electrocution - Even minimal contact with live wires can be fatal. Cats under 2 years old are at highest risk.

• Burns - Electrical shocks can cause painful burns around the mouth. These require rapid veterinary treatment.

• Respiratory injury - Electrical shocks may damage the heart and lungs. This can cause breathing difficulty.

• Oral injury - Chewing releases copper from wires. Ingesting this metal can cause tissue damage in the mouth.

• Intestinal injury - Swallowing plastic and rubber insulation can cause obstructions in the digestive tract.

• Fire hazard - Exposed, damaged wires increase risk of electrical fires starting.

So while chewing cords satisfies curiosity or stress, it places cats in grave danger. Any signs of injury after a cat interacts with wires necessitates an immediate vet visit. Next we’ll cover how to recognize problems.

Signs of Injury from Chewed Cords

Look for the following symptoms if you suspect your cat has chewed on electrical cords:

• Burns or blisters on face, mouth, or paws
• Drooling or trouble swallowing
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy or decreased energy
• Coughing or breathing issues
• Spontaneous vomiting
• Abnormal vocalization
• Seizures or muscle tremors

Cats may also compulsively lick at burned areas. Any signs of pain, respiratory distress, or neurological issues after exposure to wires constitutes an emergency. Rush your cat to the vet immediately in these cases. Fast treatment is crucial.

How to Stop Cats from Chewing Wires

Now let’s discuss tactics to curb this dangerous habit in your pet. Try these tips to protect cords and keep kitty safe:

• Coat cords in bitter-tasting anti-chew sprays designed for pet training. Vicks VapoRub also works. Reapply regularly.

• Wrap cords in sheets of foil or double-sided sticky tape. These textures deter chewing.

• Hide wires behind furniture or appliances. Tuck them against walls or ceilings. Remove access.

• Bundle loose cords together with twist ties. Discourage pulling with a tight wrap.

• Thread cords through PVC tubing or wire loom to block access. These cord organizers can be purchased cheaply online.

• Use bitter apple sprays inside tubing to enhance deterrence. The bad taste remains inside the protective cover.

• Consider wireless computer peripherals like keyboards to remove tempting wires.

• Keep cats active and enriched with interactive play, treats puzzles, and quality time with their human. Prevent boredom!

With some clever DIY wire protection and training, you can curb this dangerous habit while keeping your cat happy and entertained. It just takes commitment and consistency.

When to See the Veterinarian

Schedule an exam with your vet if:

• Your cat shows any symptoms of electrical injury after chewing cords. Prompt treatment is essential.

• Dental pain seems to be causing your cat to chew household items like cords. A dental exam can identify problems.

• You suspect nutritional deficiency, compulsion, or other medical issues may be contributing to chewing behaviors. Testing can help determine underlying causes.

Vets can also check for internal injuries, provide pain management, and advise you on strategies to kitty-proof your home wiring. Don’t delay seeking help if cord chewing has resulted in any health concerns for your pet.

Ask an Electrician About Pet-Proofing

Consult an experienced electrician for advice on “cat-proofing” loose wires in your home. They can identify fire hazards, reroute cords through walls, and install protective tubing to shield accessible outlets. Baby-proofing tricks for covering outlets also deter curious cats.

With some smart design adjustments, you can both keep your cat safe and maintain the functionality of your electrical appliances. Don’t let a destructive chewing habit put your beloved pet in danger!

Conclusion

While cord chewing satisfies natural feline instincts, it poses a major health hazard for cats. Make sure your pet receives ample enrichment and supervision to minimize electrical risks inside your home. With patience and commitment, you can curb this behavior and protect the safety of your furry friend.