How to Prevent Pets From Chewing on Electrical Cords

Chewing on electrical cords can burn or shock your pet, causing respiratory problems, cardiac arrest and even death. His sharp teeth and inquisitive nature can put him at high risk.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Bitter Apple Sprays
• Clear Contact Paper
• Dog Toys
• Masking Tape
• Scat Mats
• Hot Pepper Sauces
• Lemon Juices
• Menthols
• Mouthwash
• Toothpaste
• Cat Toys
• Flexible Safety Cables

1. Tape cords to the wall with electrical tape to help prevent your pet from gaining access to them.

2. Stow excess lengths of cord behind furniture or appliances, hidden from your pet's view. Cats are attracted to dangling cords and may think they are toys.

3. Block access to visible cords by wrapping flexible safety cable (available at hardware stores) around them.

4. Place contact paper, sticky side up, in the general area of electrical cords to discourage your pet from approaching them.

5. Apply unpleasant-tasting substances to exposed cords. These could include bitter apple spray, hot-pepper sauce, menthol, toothpaste, mouthwash or lemon juice. Experiment with different flavors, since pets' taste aversions vary.

6. Have favorite toys available to distract your pet from the cords, and rotate toys every few days to prevent boredom.

7. Keep your pet out of any room with exposed electrical cords until your furry friend loses interest in chewing on them.

Tips & Warnings

• Electrical-cord injuries are most common in puppies and kittens, especially when they are first adopted, so be extra vigilant with the young ones when you bring them home for the first time.