We love our kitties, but sometimes they can test our patience with their naughty cat behaviors. And when it comes to their safety, it’s our duty to keep them out of harm’s way. We know that kitties will often play with the blinds or knock things off the counter, but there are some cats who are simply fascinated with cords and wires. And to make things worse, some cats develop issues with chewing the cords and wires. This is especially dangerous and something we must prevent for their safety. If you’re looking for some tips to get your cat to stop chewing on cords and wires, I’ve rounded up some helpful information for you below.
Here’s a few methods to get your cat to stop chewing on cords and wires…
First off, be mindful of how the cords are exposed
Obviously our cats are naturally curious and out of sight out of mind doesn’t always work. However, be mindful of the cords which are exposed. Your cat is instinctively drawn to things that they can play with, and to them, those cords can be too tempting to pass up. In order to conceal the wires and cords in your home, consider purchasing some rubber or sleeve covers to hide them. You can even use PVC piping from your local hardware store, too. There is a theory that suggests that your cat is drawn to these cords because in their eyes, it might resemble an animal’s tail. And, as we know, cats love to chase and hunt things. Do yourself—and them—the favor of not confusing their minds with something that can seriously harm them by covering the cords as best you can.
Cats are all about scent
Spanking your cat or yelling at them for chewing on the cords will not curb their desire to chew on them. Additionally, cats are very sensitive, and disciplining them in such a way is harmful to their delicate psyche. To stop your cat from chewing on cords, instead try covering the cords in a scent in that they do not like. Cats are not attracted to citrus or bitter smells, and there are sprays available designed specifically with naughty cat habits like this in mind.
The approach is to make these cords less attractive to your cat so that they simply learn to ignore them. This would fall under what is known as remote correction. This means that you are changing the environment and allowing the environment to create a negative effect for your cat. Remote correction has been proven highly effective when it comes to correcting naughty cat behaviors. This is because the consequences of their actions are leading to an unpleasant experience. Your cat is highly intelligent and they learn rather quickly. So, this is something to carefully consider.
Offer your cat more enrichment
Although your feline friend sleeps anywhere from 12 to 15 hours a day, remember that they still love to play, too. It’s important for you to engage with your cat, talk to your cat, and above all, play with them. Your cat thrives off mental stimulation, so oftentimes when they seek out those cords they’re looking for just that. Find ways to stimulate their mind through play and enrichment toys to keep kitty happy—and away from those dangerous cords. Wands toys with feathers, and even products filled with catnip are all good ways to offer your cat the enrichment they crave. Kittens are much more inclined to chew on cords and wires, and it’s always good to break this behavior quickly for your cat’s safety regardless of age.
Insight into their health
There are a number of vet professionals who believe that when cats chew cords, this is a direct insight into their health which shouldn’t be ignored. For cats that are suffering from dental issues, they might be seeking relief on their teeth by biting down on these cords. Older cats with metabolic issues such as hyperthyroidism, might feel a strange desire to chew on things as a means to cope with what they are experiencing. When it comes to Pica, this is a condition that causes cats to want to eat things that are not intended for consumption. Should your cat have suddenly taken a strange interest in chewing on cords, it’s best to take them to see their veterinarian for a health assessment.
I hope this information on how to get your cat to stop chewing on cords and wires proves effective for you. If you know a cat owner who can benefit from these tips, don’t forget to share this article with them.
