Cables, wires, and outlets. They're all necessary to running the modern home. But they pose serious threats to the fur babies in our lives. Here are simple steps you can take to ensure they stay safe from electrical hazards.
Always Watch Your Puppy and Kittens
Just like crawling babies and toddlers, puppies and kittens are super curious and that includes exploring electronic devices and outlets.
- Make sure all plugs are completely inserted in outlets and are flush against the outlet cover. Unused outlets should have plug protectors inserted. Outdoor plugs should be covered.
- All outlets located near wet locations like sinks, tubs, and showers should be equipped with GFCIs.
- Plugged-in devices like radios, irons, and hairdryers should be unplugged and put away when not in use so your pet doesn't get burned or hit by a heavy object falling on them.
Finally, fairy and holiday lights are beautiful decorative touches, but they're also attention-getters for pets. Make sure to string them where your pet can't play with them.
Keep Pets Away Lights
Lamps with exposed bulbs can reach extremely high temperatures so be sure to keep these fixtures away from the areas where your pet sleeps or plays. FYI, if you own a Himalayan salt lamp, there might be no direct electrical risk, but it is possible for a cat or dog to get sick from excessively licking one of these popular home accessories.
Keep Pets Away From Electrical Appliances
The heat appliances give off, dangling wires and cords, and intriguing outlet openings are all a very real threat to pets. For example, cats of all ages love to chew, and wires are particularly attractive. But if your pet manages to chew through the wire, they risk severe burns or even electrocution. Both cats and dogs can also get themselves seriously tangled up in jumbled wires and cords. Lastly, cats in particular like to tuck themselves in warm, tight spaces, but you shouldn't let them hide or sleep behind your TV console, computer, or other locations where electrical connections are visible.
Solutions include consistent training when pets put themselves in dangerous situations. Of course, it's impossible to keep an eye on pets 24/7, so you might want to try things like switching out visible cables for ones that are hidden behind a wall, etc.
Replace Chewed or Frayed Wires/Cords
If your pet shows an interest in playing with electrical cords, make sure to frequently check the cords for signs of fraying so you can replace them before your dog or cat gets harmed. Wire chewing usually stops as a dog or cat ages, but if your pet continues the habit, there are a couple solutions you can try:
- Use a bitter-tasting pet deterrent to coat the cords.
- Wrap the cords in flexible cable or PVC.
- Check your pet store or online for pet-proof cords.
If your pet suffers an electrical shock or gets entangled in cords or wires, keep in mind they might panic when you try to help them. If there are injuries like mouth burns or wire cuts, they should immediately be treated by the vet. To learn more about pet-proofing your home or to schedule an electrical inspection, contact David Gray Electrical Services today by calling (904) 605-8190 or contacting us online.