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Why does my cat chew wires even with no teeth? How to stop it?
Updated on September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Siamese | Male | neutered | 12 years and 10 months old | 8 lbs
My cat loves chewing on wires. When we adopted him he'd had all his teeth removed so can't be dental. His diet is vet-approved as he has a heart condition & includes softer 'pate style food as well as more interactive ones like prawns or tuna loin. And he has a lot of toys most of which seem to scare him plus plenty of cuddle time. So what could be causing this & how do I make him happy but keep him safe? Thank you :)
1 Answer
Most Helpful Answer
Answered By Amber W
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on September 21st, 2017
It's hard to say what may be causing Jazz to chew on wires. Even though he is missing his teeth since you've adopted him he could still have retained tooth roots below the gum line causing oral pain. The only way to check for retained roots is to do dental X-rays.
It is also possible that this is just a play behavior for Jazz. It may be very difficult to stop him from wanting to chew on wires if this is the "toy" he has decided he enjoys. Instead you may have to cover the wires or make them inaccessible to Jazz to keep him safe.
It sounds like you are doing a good job at setting aside time for Jazz to have attention. Searching for a toy that doesn't scare him may also help. Something like an Undercover Mouse toy may be worth trying. I'd suggest also using a Feliway diffuser to decrease some of Jazz's fear.
A veterinary consultation may help to provide more ideas and details on why Jazz may be showing this behavior.
I hope this is helpful! Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach and I wish you and Jazz the best of luck!
It is also possible that this is just a play behavior for Jazz. It may be very difficult to stop him from wanting to chew on wires if this is the "toy" he has decided he enjoys. Instead you may have to cover the wires or make them inaccessible to Jazz to keep him safe.
It sounds like you are doing a good job at setting aside time for Jazz to have attention. Searching for a toy that doesn't scare him may also help. Something like an Undercover Mouse toy may be worth trying. I'd suggest also using a Feliway diffuser to decrease some of Jazz's fear.
A veterinary consultation may help to provide more ideas and details on why Jazz may be showing this behavior.
I hope this is helpful! Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach and I wish you and Jazz the best of luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful