by Kerri Reed

Created on: January 19, 2009

If chewing on electrical cords was an Olympic sport, my Grizabella would win the gold medal. I have purchased more replacement cords for my apartment than anyone on the planet, I can assure you. I have gone through five sets of headphones in two weeks, and still she chews. Recently, I hired a "baby-proofer" to come to my home, thinking that she would be able to help me protect my cords and phone lines. She took one look at my mangled lamp cord, and knew that I needed her help. We immediately set to work.

First, the electrical/phone cords. Cats take one look at these and assume they were left there purposefully to give them something to do in between chasing the neighbor's dog. They have no idea how much voltage is attached to some of these cords, so it is up to the owner to make sure they are properly protected. The famous scene in "National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation" where the white fluffy cat chews through the Christmas tree lights cord, and becomes part of the carpet, can actually become a reality without a little prevention.

Take the cords and wrap them in protective tubing that can be found at any home appliance store. This is crucial in preventing the cat from harming himself on the wires inside. Another good tip that the "baby-proofer" had was to have plenty of safe cat toys available for the cat, so they don't get bored and wander into the utility closet. Cat trees allow for scratching posts, and wand toys that will keep the cat in a secure location. Another good tip is to put headphones and other objects attached to wires away when done using them. Leaving them out in the open is a formal invitation for the cat to chew through them, and left with enough time, they will.

It is never good to discipline a cat because of chewing as this only annoys the cat further, and does no good. The cat will forget about the incident thirty seconds later, and begin chewing on something across the room within minutes. The best way is to keep the wires out of reach of the cat, and involve the cat with toys that are appropriate and safe. The cat won't know the difference, and it will save you money and grief. Cats are flexible creatures, and with enough incentive, will chew through the right kinds of cat toys and leave the electrical equipment alone. This will provide peace of mind for the owner, and all the chewing opportunities the cat can take. With a little effort, chewing on electrical cords can be a thing of the past.

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