Some pet owners also use electrical tape to secure wires and keep them out of the way. You can also buy rubber covers or PVC tubing to place over the cords. You can hide the wires behind heavy furniture where your cat can't reach. Here are some of the best ways to deter your cat from using wires as a chew toy: 1. It's clear that cats chewing on electrical cords and wires is a serious danger to everyone in your home. Never leave damaged cords lying around your home. Then, either replace the cord or discard the appliance. For extra safety, you may need to turn off the circuit breaker that powers the outlet before unplugging the cord. So, if you discover that your cat has chewed part of an electrical cord, you should immediately turn off and unplug the device. If your cat chews on electrical cords around your home, then her health is at risk as well as the health and safety of the rest of your family! Damaged electrical cords can cause accidental electrocution in any human or animal who comes in contact with them.ĭamaged electrical cords can also lead to electrical short circuits and house fires. Your Cat Chewing On Cords is Dangerous for Her AND Your Whole Family Treatment will depend on the extent of your cat's injuries, but may include topical and oral medications and IV fluids.Īside from accidental electrocution, your cat can easily get a piece of wire or rubber stuck in her throat if she chews on electrical cords.
The vet may use lab work, imaging tests, and a physical examination to rule out any other health problems that could be causing her symptoms. Your vet can confirm a diagnosis of an electrical cord bite injury by thoroughly assessing your cat and asking you questions about her health history. Seizures, organ damage, infections (from burn wounds), and even death may occur if these injuries are left untreated. An electrical cord bite injury should be considered a medical emergency. If you notice any of these symptoms in your cat (especially if you just found her chewing on an electrical wire!) then you need to call your vet immediately. It's normal behavior, and, provided they are given something kitty-safe to chew on under your supervision, it's actually okay for them to do. Because of this, young kittens often seek out things to chew as a way to quell the discomfort. When kittens are growing, their mouth and gums can be achy and uncomfortable as their new teeth come in and their baby teeth fall out. Like babies and even puppies, kittens explore and learn about their world largely through their mouths.īut why does your kitten or cat chew cords in particular? After all, electrical wires don't look too appealing.īesides your feline's developmental period and curiosity, experts report a few reasons to explain a cat chewing on cords: 1.
For kittens especially, chewing is developmentally appropriate behavior. How do you stop cats from chewing on cords?Ĭats love to chew on things.Why does my cat chew on electrical cords?.Provide a more enriching environment for your cat. Give them something less dangerous to chew on. Your Cat Chewing On Cords is Dangerous for Her AND Your Whole Family.
What are the Dangers of Cats Chewing on Wires & Cords?.