Why Does My Cat Chew on Electrical Cords?

Cats might chew cords from boredom.

It's common for cats to chew on electrical cords, especially when they are kittens. However, it's quite dangerous and can result in choking, electrocution, bad oral burns, or death for the cat and damage to electrical items and fire risk for your home.

Why Do Cats Chew Electrical Cords?

It can be baffling to owners when their cat develops a habit of chewing on cords. Here are the main reasons cats do this:

How to Keep Your Cat from Chewing on Cords

The first thing you should do if your adult or older cat starts chewing cords is to visit a veterinarian for a full medical exam. Next, do your best to hide electrical cords or keep them out of reach of your cat. Additionally, you can try these methods:

Provide Plenty of Play Time

Here are some ways to enrich your cat's day and hopefully decrease any boredom that might be contributing to the cord chewing issue:

If you suspect your cat has chewed on an electrical cord, contact your veterinarian immediately. Here is some more information about first aid for electrocution: "First Aid for Electrocution Injury in Cats."


Remember, cord chewing is dangerous, so it should be a priority to stop the behavior when you see it. You should also do what you can to avoid the problem in the first place when you are getting a new kitten by hiding and wrapping existing cords before you bring him home. It can be easier to keep the problem from starting than to fix it once it does.

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