Dear Christopher Cat
My kitten chews telephone cords and electrical wires. I’ve tried swabbing them with spicy and bitter liquids, and I squirt her with water when I see her chewing, but neither technique has worked. What else can I do?
Christopher Responds
I must confess that I used to chew telephone and electrical cords on occasion, too. Mom says I’m lucky I didn’t burn my mouth or electrocute myself.
She put an end to my risky behavior, and I’m happy to share her technique with you.
First, cover your telephone cords and electrical wires, using aluminum foil, a plastic shower rod cover, cord conduit from the office supply store, a garden hose sliced lengthwise, or even PVC pipe.
Next, tire your kitten by encouraging her to exercise, and offer her a variety of enticing chew toys.
Include some safe cord toys, like bouncy play things on stretchy cords that hang from door knobs – and my favorite, an interactive toy that looks like a fishing pole with a feather on the line.
With your help and a bit of time, she surely will outgrow her cord obsession.
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