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How to Keep Your Cat From Chewing on Cords | Applewood

February 23, 2022

curiosity killed the cat. It’s an old saying, but it’s still true. If your cat or kitten is chewing on electrical cords, it’s only a matter of time until he gets hurt. luckily, our electricians have tips on how to keep your kitties from playing and chewing on wires.

Cats make great pets. They are happy living indoors, cleaning themselves, using a litter box without training, and hunting unwanted pests! unfortunately, our feline companions aren’t always perfect. chewing on wires could be the sign of other problems. we will help you diagnose the reasons behind your cat’s oral fixation and we will give you solutions to break the habit.

why do cats chew string?

Reasons cats chew on wires can range from behavioral issues to dental problems to health issues. Here are the most likely reasons your cat is chewing on your strings:

  • curiosity. Cats, especially kittens, like the way it feels when they chew on string. a cord dangling from the table might look like another animal’s tail, or it might just be a tactile problem they can’t resist.
  • boredom. House cats without much external stimulation available may see a dangling electrical cord as an exciting distraction.
  • dental problems. Young kitties that are teething tend to chew on anything and everything. an electrical cord may be convenient. a good percentage of older cats experience dental problems. chewing helps ease your discomfort.
  • ocd. If your cat displays behaviors such as excessive grooming, tail chasing, and excessive licking, she may have obsessive-compulsive disorder that requires her to chew.
  • nutritional deficiency. pica is the medical term for eating non-food items. it is often the result of a health problem or lack of nutrition.
  • stress. If your cat is very nervous, chewing may be the way to relieve internal tension and anxiety.
  • how do I stop my cat from chewing on wires?

    Whatever the reason your cat chews on wires, it’s important to keep them safe. Here are six ways to keep cats off wires and cables:

    1. wrap exposed wires in rubber boots

    You can buy rubber or plastic cord covers at most electrical and home repair supply stores. The covers not only create a barrier against chewing, but are also useful for organizing cords and keeping them untangled. An Applewood electrician can also help you install rubber decking.

    2. keep your cat entertained

    If your cat is bored, it’s likely to cause some mischief. distract them by satisfying their sensory needs: smell, taste, texture, and sound.

    Replace their desire to chew on rubber strings by giving them something else to chew on, such as rubber chew toys, rawhide, or even cardboard. catnip is a great alternative for heavy chewers.

    rotate your cat’s toy choices so she doesn’t get tired of the same items day after day.

    3. give your cat more attention

    increase your daily interaction with your cat to wear him down mentally and physically. this can reduce your desire to chew on strings. Interactive food toys that require your cat to actively search for treats are a great tool to engage your cat.

    4. spray the strings with bitter apple spray

    apply some store-bought apple spray to prevent your cat from chewing on electrical cords. other home remedies you can apply include:

    • dish soap
    • lavender oil
    • citrus
    • hot sauce
    • garlic
    • vinegar paste
    • menthol
    • 5. eliminate access to cables

      Rearrange furniture to cover cords or secure loose cords to baseboards. By eliminating the temptation of open dangling wires, you can reduce your cats’ urge to chew.

      6. take your cat to the vet for a checkup

      Because chewing on strings can be a sign of a health or dental problem, it’s important to get your cat checked out. A vet will be able to assess your cat’s teeth, health, and diet to ensure she is receiving proper nutrition and is healthy.

      If you notice signs of injury from electrical wires, such as burn marks around your cat’s mouth or excessive drooling, make an appointment immediately. an electric shock can cause major problems, such as heart and lung damage or breathing problems.

      electrical repair for feline damage

      Don’t let damaged or exposed wires and cables become a hazard in your home. Get fast, professional electrical help with all your wiring. If you need help with rubberizing wires or any other electrical problem, contact Applewood today! We’ll replace or reroute potentially dangerous cables to keep your home safe for two-legged and four-legged family members alike!

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