While pets are wonderful additions to the home, even well-trained animals are curious, and they may accidentally cause issues around the house. Some are even prone to chewing on stray cords, which can require significant electrical repairs to fix the damage. This also puts your pet at risk of a shock if the device is plugged in and drawing power. Below are several strategies to help you protect both your animals and electrical system.

How Can You Get Pets to Stop Chewing on Electrical Wires

1. Apply a Taste Deterrent

Animals chew on items out of curiosity, so if you make the wires taste bad, they most likely won't try to chew on them again. One easy method is to dilute some white vinegar with water and gently spray it on the cords. Make sure they are unplugged when you do this, as you don't want to damage the outlet or electrical system. Alternatively, you can purchase small, plastic sheaths that fit over the cords and contain a chemical deterrent. These products also provide extra strength to prevent your pet's teeth from getting through. Both options are harmless to your pet, but they have a foul taste that is unpleasant.

2. Block Access and Hide Cords

One of the best ways to avoid the need for electrical repairs is to prevent your pets from accessing the cords at all. For example, hiding the cords behind furniture, running wires across the ceiling, and enclosing power strips in cable management boxes keep the wires out of site. If you cannot do this, close the door or install pet gates so that your animals cannot access the room when you aren't in there, as this prevents them from getting to the cords. 

3. Train and Redirect Them

Direct training works best with dogs, particularly younger ones, and helps them learn that they aren't allowed to chew on certain items. Monitor them closely, and whenever they start to get near a cord, tell them to "stop" or "leave it" and move them away. You can also try redirecting their attention with chew toys, which is helpful if they are young and teething. This provides an alternative for them to get their excess energy out.

Whether you need emergency electrical repairs or want to install a new lighting installation, contact All Star Electric in San Antonio, TX. In business since 1995, their certified electricians have won the Angie’s List® Super Service Award multiple times, so you can have confidence in their work. Visit them online for more information about their services, and call (210) 391-0274 to schedule an appointment.