How to Stop Destructive Cat Chewing

Cat chewing can be a destructive and annoying behavior. Cats may end up chewing on cables, power cords, plants (which may be toxic), furniture or shoes and the chewing may be fatal. The reasons for chewing are multifold: boredom, stress, curiosity, hunger or teething. Typically, chewing is more frequent in kittens, but may be present in adult cats as well.

Chewing is a natural behavior in cats; however, it is important to stop this behavior to avoid possible accidents such as electrocution or poisoning.

Chew Toys

As cats tend to chew and this behavior is less likely to be stopped, you may control what your cat chews by offering him chew toys. Choose various types of chew toys: squeaky toys, soft, hard or squashy toys to make sure the cat doesn't get bored of a single type of toy. Cats like variety and they can get easily frustrated.

Place the toys in different parts of the house and allow the cat to explore the house and find these toys. You may hang the toys on threads or place them under the furniture; cats love challenges.

In addition, the search for toys will also give your cat a healthy workout and he will spend a lot of energy, so there is no more energy left to chew on cords, furniture or other types of destructive behavior.

Grass and Plastic Straws

If your cat shows interest in chewing plants you should offer him grass. Grass has the same texture as plants and unlike some plants, grass is not toxic.

Cats also like plastic straws and these are recommended for teething kittens.

Cover Wires and Cords

Wires and cords are often targeted by curious cats. Chewing on these may endanger your cat's life and may also destroy your electric appliances. So, cover these wires and cords with metallic or plastic tubes and restrict your cat's access to these.

Hide Shoes and Bags

Hide the other favorites of your (i.e. shoes and bags) cat in a locked closet. If the cat cannot find these, he will look for his chew toys.

Repellent Spray

As you cannot hide all your furniture from your cat, you may use a repellent spray that will keep your cat away from the leather couch or carpet. Your cat may try to chew on these objects but if he tastes the bitter couch, he will stop.

Alternatively, use bitter tasting gels; but be careful, gels are not suitable for leather goods or carpets.

Double Sided Tape

Cats don't like double sided tape; this is sticky and cats will stay away from it. So, if none of the above mentioned techniques work, place some double sided tape near the wires, cords and dangerous areas where your cat likes to chew.

You may also train your cat to stop chewing. The cat must learn that chewing on toys is acceptable and chewing on wires is not. Typically, cats will stop chewing after teething or when they become adults.

 

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