How to stop cat from chewing cords

A dangerous household item cats often chew is electrical cord and wire. As with plastic bags, cats can find the oral sensation of chewing on cords pleasant. Kittens in particular can chew cords as part of their exploratory development. Chewing on cords is a dangerous activity that should be actively prevented as it presents a choking hazard, as well as the possibility of injury and death from electrocution. It also can obviously damage your household electronics and cause electrical fires.

What’s so great about chewing cords?

One reason that cats will chew cords can be related to their dental health, and if you find your cat engaging in these activities, a trip to the veterinarian to make sure her teeth are in good order is important. You may also want to discuss with your veterinarian your cat’s diet, as chewing on odd objects can be a symptom of insufficiency in daily dietary needs. Finally, boredom can be a major factor in habits like these. You should adopt a plan combining management (to keep your cat safe) and enrichment (to engage physical and mental needs).

Tips to keep your cat from chewing cords.

• Consider wrapping cords in rubber covers that can be purchased at most stores that sell electrical and home repair supplies. Putting the cords inside PVC tubing is also an option. You can also rub them with a citrus scent, which cats dislike and will avoid.
• Providing your cats with enrichment will play a big role in dissuading them from chewing inappropriate items. Miranda K. Workman, a Certified Animal Behavior Consultant through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants and Adjunct Professor of Animal Learning at Canisius College, communicated to me, “Addressing a cat’s sensory needs: smell, taste, texture and sound.” If your cat likes chewing on cords, find items in your local pet store that approximate those sensations, such as rubber chew toys. Look for items that are different from these as well, so your cats are able to enjoy a wide variety of textures and sounds when they chew and play. Says Workman, “I even use puppy Nylabones® as chew toys for very orally focused cats.”
• Increase your daily play with your cat as well, which can help tire your cat out both physically and mentally. Look for toys that require you to be engaged with the play, such as “fishing wand” type toys. Interactive food toys, where your cat has to hunt for food within the toy, are also a way to engage feline minds and bodies. Training (specifically clicker training) your cat to do simple behaviors such as sit, down and other tricks is also a wonderful way to increase your cat’s exercise and it’s a wonderful bonding activity.

For some additional resources on cat enrichment ideas, the American Association of Feline Practitioner provides a helpful list. If you need more help, find a professional through the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, the Animal Behavior Society, and the IAABC.

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If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian -- they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.

Suppose that after a long day of work, you settle into your new reclining couch, press the button to elevate your feet, and…nothing happens. You investigate the situation and find that your agile feline friend has slithered under the couch and chewed the power cord to your recliner! Thankfully, your cat seems uninjured but now you’re stuck with an annoying situation—plus, who knows if your kitty will be so lucky next time.

Chewing electrical cords is not only expensive and troublesome for cat owners but it can be extremely dangerous for the cats themselves. If your cat has developed this worrying habit, here are seven proven methods to stop your cat from chewing electrical cords.

One way to deter your cat from chewing electrical cords is to smear the cords in something that tastes bad to cats. You could try a commercial anti-chew product or something like hot sauce or citrus oils. This method might take some trial and error as you figure out what tastes bad enough to keep your cat away from the cords.

Image Credit: Piqsels

Many different cord protection products are available at home improvement stores. These are usually hard plastic or thick rubber items that encase the electrical cords to prevent cats from damaging the actual cord. Very determined chewers may still be able to destroy some of these products but it’s worth a try to see if they work on your cat.

Image Credit: Piqsels

In many cases, cats chew cords because they find dangling or loose objects irresistible playthings. Fastening several loose cords together or attaching dangling cords securely to walls, floors or furniture can make it harder for your cat to have their fun and solve your chewing problem. As a bonus, you’ll be less likely to trip on the cords either!

Image Credit: Piqsels

If you don’t have a lot of cords to protect, try wrapping them in double-sided tape. Cats won’t like gnawing on the sticky surface of the tape and may look elsewhere for a chew toy. This method can be time-consuming if you’re trying to cover a lot of cord length, and the sticky tape will also attract dirt and hair.

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Another time-consuming but effective method of keeping your cords safe is to run them through thin PVC pipes. This technique requires some planning and a bit of skill to measure, cut, and secure the piping, but even the most vigorous chewing cat is unlikely to break through this protective enclosure.

Image Credit: Piqsels

In some cases, your cat may be chewing cords because they’re bored or trying to get your attention. To try and curb this behavior at the source, make time to play and interact with your cat one on one every day. Ensure your cat has plenty of toys, scratching posts, and hiding spaces to enrich their environment.

If your cat is left alone for long periods, consider hiring a pet sitter to visit your cat during the day. Leave the TV on to keep your cat company or even get another pet if you’re able and your cat is social towards other animals.

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Try redirecting your cat’s chewing towards other, more appropriate objects. Some cats enjoy gnawing on cardboard, and you may be able to keep them happy by saving boxes from your latest online shopping spree. Numerous cat chew toys are also available for purchase. These toys come in various styles, materials, and sizes for casual to dedicated chewers. They can also help keep your cat’s teeth clean and their breath fresh.

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Why Chewing Electrical Cords Is Dangerous

Chewing electrical cords can be dangerous not only to your cat but to your household as well. Chewed and damaged live electrical cords can be a legitimate fire hazard. Babies or small children could also be injured if they touch the chewed cords.

For cats, chewing electrical cords can be life-threatening. Cats can suffer tongue and mouth burns from chewing cords. They could also choke on cord parts or develop an intestinal blockage if they swallow them. Cats may even be electrocuted by the live wires. Kittens and young cats are most likely to chew cords and also be seriously hurt by doing so.

Signs Of Electrical Injury in Cats

If you’re concerned your cat may have suffered an injury from chewing cords, they need to see a veterinarian as soon as possible. Electrical injuries can be both painful and dangerous. Here are some signs and symptoms you may notice if your cat has hurt themselves chewing electrical cords:

• Excessive drooling
• Visible burns around the mouth
• Difficulty breathing
• Reluctance to eat
• Lack of energy

Electrocution can cause serious heart and lung damage to your cat. Don’t hesitate to call your veterinarian if you notice any of these signs.

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Conclusion

Keeping your cat from chewing electrical cords may take a combination of techniques. Protect the cords to keep your cat safe as you work on redirecting their behavior or training them to avoid chewing altogether. No matter which method you pick to protect your electric cords, remember that harsh punishment is never an appropriate way to discipline your cat. If you’re finding yourself frustrated or unable to change your cat’s behavior, seek advice from your veterinarian or a cat behavior specialist before you give up entirely.

• Related read: How to Keep Cats Away From Christmas Trees (5 Proven Methods)

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