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.

The 7 Ways to Prevent Your Cat from Chewing Electrical Cords

1. Cover the Cords in Something Bad-Tasting

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.

2. Use a Cord Protector

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.

3. Attach Dangling Cords

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 also!

4. Wrap Cords in Double-sided Tape

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.

5. Run Cords Through PVC Pipe

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.

6. Give Your Cat More Attention

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 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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7. Offer Alternative Chew Objects

Try redirecting your cat’s chewing toward 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.

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.

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.

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Featured Image Credit: e-leet, Shutterstock