Mary Allen
As a cat owner, you are probably familiar with the problem: your four-legged friend likes to nibble on cables. Unfortunately, this is not only annoying but also life-threatening for the animal. We will tell you here why your cat is tampering with the rubber-coated cables.
Some cats seem to enjoy nibbling on wires around the house. However, this behavior can be dangerous for the animal. On the one hand, the cat can swallow toxic plastic parts, on the other hand, it can also get an electric shock. But why exactly do four-legged friends feel so attracted to cables?
Causes of Nibbling on Cables
There are a variety of reasons a cat might chew on wires. It is therefore important to get to the bottom of the exact cause and eliminate it. Here are possible reasons why a kitty just can’t keep its paws off power cords:
• Boredom: When exposed to a low-stimulus environment and bored, a cat tends to bite wires. The animal seeks variety in its behavior. In addition, the cat learns that it will get attention if it goes on the lines illegally.
• Curiosity: Whether it’s shopping bags, toys, or just an empty box, cats are natural explorers. They would like to explore everything, and they like to do it with teeth and claws. Unfortunately, power cables are also not safe from their urge to explore.
• Toothache: Toothache can also be the cause of cable nibbling – for example as a result of the change of teeth in young animals. Just like humans, cats also lose their milk teeth. When the four-legged friends get their permanent teeth, it can be painful or at least uncomfortable. Cats sometimes get relief by chewing on objects – including power cords.
Keep Cat Away from Cables
Depending on the cause, there are various ways to get your cat to stop nibbling on cables. If she is bored, for example, then one thing above all helps employment. Are you sure you have enough cat toys? Does your furry roommate have enough opportunities for climbing and exercise? A longer-term solution can also be the purchase of a second cat. Because for two, boredom doesn’t even arise.
So that you don’t have to worry about potentially life-threatening electric shocks, you should make cables inaccessible to your cat. Freely hanging cables should be taped down. With the help of classic cable hoses or skirting boards, the lines can be easily hidden. Cable sprays with lemon, vinegar, or chili paste can also ensure that the cat stays away from the cables.
However, if your cat bites cables due to the change of teeth, then you should take her to a veterinarian. He can give you tips and, if necessary, prescribe a homeopathic remedy for your animal if it is in pain.