How To Stop Cats From Chewing Cords: Simple Solutions To Keep Your Cat Safe

Last week, I caught my cat chewing on my phone charger cord. I initially brushed it off as a one-time incident, but soon found her gnawing on all sorts of cords and cables—everything from computer wires to vacuum cords. This behavior was not only frustrating but also extremely dangerous, as it could lead to electrical shocks, burns, or even more severe injuries.

As a devoted cat owner, I wanted to understand why she was doing this. After some investigation, I discovered that common causes for cord-chewing in cats include dental discomfort, boredom, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, and more. But how could I stop it?

After extensive research, I compiled all the possible causes and effective solutions to prevent this hazardous habit. If you’re looking to protect your feline friend from potential harm, keep reading to find out how.

Why Do Cats Chew On Cords?

Before we explore how to stop this behavior, it’s crucial to understand why cats are attracted to chewing cords in the first place. Several factors contribute to this puzzling habit:

Curiosity

Cats like to explore and check out new things using all their senses, including taste. Cords and cables can intrigue cats because they are long, thin, and often dangling. These objects might seem like toys or even prey to a cat, triggering their instinct to bite and chew.

Dental Issues

Sometimes, cats chew on cords because of dental problems. If your cat is experiencing tooth pain or gum discomfort, they might seek relief by chewing on various objects, including cords. This behavior can be a sign that your cat might need to see a vet.

Nutritional Deficiency

In some cases, cats may chew on non-food items like cords due to a lack of certain nutrients in their diet. This is called Pica. Talk to your vet if you think your cat might not be getting the right nutrients. They can check your cat’s diet and help.

Playful Nature

Cats, especially kittens, are naturally playful and curious. To them, cords can resemble enticing toys—they’re easy to swat at, make intriguing noises, and have a satisfying texture to chew on. For a playful cat, cords seem like the perfect toy, making it hard for them to resist the temptation to play with and chew on them. This is often why cords become such an appealing target around the house.

Boredom Or Inactivity

If your cat isn’t getting enough mental stimulation or playtime, they may resort to chewing cords as a form of entertainment. Bored cats often seek out ways to occupy themselves, and unfortunately, electrical cords can become their toy of choice when other options are lacking.

Medical Issues

Sometimes, cats may chew on cords due to underlying health issues. Neurological disorders or digestive problems can trigger this behavior. If your cat suddenly starts chewing on things more than usual, it’s wise to consult your veterinarian to rule out any potential health concerns.

Attention-Seeking Behavior

Cats are intelligent and quick learners, often discovering that chewing cords prompts a strong reaction from their owners. Even if the reaction is frustration, the attention they receive can be reinforcing. Some cats may chew cords to draw attention when they feel ignored, using this behavior as a way to engage with their owners and get noticed.

PICA

Pica is a condition where animals (and humans) eat non-food items. Cats with pica might chew on things that aren’t food, like cords. This condition can have multiple causes, ranging from nutritional deficiencies to psychological factors.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

In rare cases, cats may chew cords excessively due to a compulsion driven by their brain, often seen in repetitive behaviors. If your cat appears fixated on chewing cords and shows other signs of compulsive behavior, it’s a good idea to consult your veterinarian to rule out conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

10 Ways to Keep Your Cat from Chewing Cords

Now that we understand why cats might be drawn to chewing cords, let’s explore some practical solutions to prevent this dangerous behavior:

Give It Time

If you’ve recently adopted a kitten or young cat, remember that chewing on cords might just be a phase. Kittens are naturally curious and often outgrow such behaviors as they mature. However, it’s important to stay vigilant and ensure their safety during this period.

Keep Your Cat Active

Keeping your cat engaged with entertaining toys and activities can help prevent cord-chewing. Provide a variety of toys and scratching posts, and make time to play with your cat regularly. A well-stimulated and tired cat is less likely to chew on cords.

Change Their Diet

If you suspect that your cat’s cord-chewing could be related to its diet, consult your veterinarian. They can help you select a more suitable food for your cat and may suggest supplements or dietary changes to address nutritional deficiencies.

Give Your Cat More Attention

Make sure to spend quality time playing with and cuddling your cat daily. Regular play sessions and affectionate interactions can help minimize attention-seeking behaviors like cord-chewing.

Eliminate Stressful Situations

Try to pinpoint and address the sources of their anxiety. Create calm, quiet spaces for your cat, use pheromone diffusers to soothe them, and introduce any changes in the household gradually.

Spray Bitter Apple Or Menthol On Your Cords

Cats dislike certain tastes and smells. Applying a bitter apple spray or a menthol-based deterrent to your cords can make them less appealing to your cat. Only use special sprays that are safe for cats.

Remove Access To Cords

One of the simplest ways to prevent cord-chewing is to make cords inaccessible to your cat. Tuck away loose cords, use cord organizers, and keep electronics in areas where your cat can’t reach them.

Wrap Cords In Aluminum Foil

Cats usually find foil unpleasant due to its texture and sound. Wrapping cords in foil can help deter them from chewing. Just be cautious not to create a fire hazard and always supervise your cat around foil-covered cords.

Invest In Wire Covers

There are many products designed specifically to protect cords from pets. Wire covers or cord protectors can be an excellent investment to keep your cat safe and your cords intact. Look for durable, chew-resistant options.

Ask Your Local Vet

If you’ve tried various methods and your cat continues to chew on cords, it’s time to consult your veterinarian. They can assess your cat’s health and provide tailored advice or treatment to address the issue.

Injuries Cats Can Sustain From Chewing On Cords

Understanding the dangers of cord-chewing is crucial for preventing it. Cats can face serious injuries from this habit, such as:

1. Electrical Shock

The most severe risk is electrocution, which can cause burns, heart damage, or even be fatal.

2. Mouth Burns

Chewing on live wires can cause severe burns to a cat’s mouth, tongue, and gums.

3. Choking Hazards

Small pieces of plastic or wire can get stuck in a cat’s throat, leading to choking or internal injuries.

4. Digestive Issues

Swallowing pieces of cord or wire can cause intestinal blockages or other serious digestive problems.

5. Dental Damage

Constant chewing on hard objects like cords can damage a cat’s teeth and gums.

Preventing cord-chewing not only protects your electronics but also ensures your cat’s health and safety.

Signs Your Cat Might Be Hurt From Chewing On Cords

Chewing on cords can be very dangerous for cats, potentially causing severe injuries like heart damage or respiratory issues. Kittens are especially vulnerable to these risks. If you suspect your cat has been chewing on cords, watch for these signs:

• Excessive tiredness or reduced playfulness
• Increased coughing
• Frequent drooling
• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty breathing
• Burnt or sore spots in or around their mouth

If you observe any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. They can provide the necessary care to help your cat recover.