As pet owners, we always want to protect our furry friends from harm. However, electrical hazards are a common danger that many pet owners may overlook. Electrical shock can cause serious injury or even death to our pets, so it's important to take precautions to protect them. The last thing you want to have to happen to your beloved pet is for them to chew on a live wire or an active cable.
WAYS TO PREVENT PETS FROM CHEWING ELECTRICAL CABLES
- When it comes to cats and dogs, you can many times train and distract them from the allure of electrical cables with their own designated toys.
- For smaller animals, consider putting them into a pen or setting up a gate to keep them away from electrical cables.
- Do not run cables long distances across a room or open areas for pets to chew on.
- Plastic cable protectors can be a helpful tool to protect electrical cables from being frayed by chewing.
- Place electrical cables out of reach.
Chewed cables and bare wires are dangerous as they can potentially start a fire. While most cables are out of reach and hidden behind the walls of your home, it is important to remember to keep the cover on any electrical outlets to prevent pets from electrocution. If you are renovating your home, consider keeping your beloved pets in a separate area of the home for their safety.
It only takes one accident.
FEW TIPS TO PROTECT OUR FURY FRIENDS
Protecting your pets from electrical shock requires a combination of pet-proofing your home, teaching your pets to stay away from electrical hazards, using pet-safe electrical products, and being prepared for emergencies. By following few tips from us, you can help keep your pets safe from electrical dangers and ensure that they stay healthy and happy.
- PET-PROOF YOUR HOME
The first step in protecting your pets from electrical shock is to pet-proof your home. This means making sure that all electrical cables and outlets are out of reach of your pets. Keep cables and outlets hidden behind furniture or use cable covers to keep them out of sight and out of reach. - CHECK YOUR HOME'S ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Another important step in protecting your pets from electrical shock is to check your home's electrical system. Make sure that all electrical outlets are properly earthed and that your circuit breakers are working correctly. If you have any doubts about the safety of your electrical system, contact us to inspect it. - KEEP ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES AND CABLES AWAY FROM PETS
Many electrical appliances and cables can be tempting for pets to play with or chew on. Keep appliances and cables out of reach of your pets, and never leave them unattended. If your pet shows an interest in cables or appliances, distract them with a toy or treat to redirect their attention. - TEACH YOUR PETS TO STAY AWAY FROM ELECTRICAL HAZARDS
One of the best ways to protect your pets from electrical shock is to teach them to stay away from electrical hazards. This can be done by using positive reinforcement training techniques. For example, you can use treats and praise to teach your pets to stay away from electrical cables and outlets. - USE PET-SAFE ELECTRICAL PRODUCTS
There are many pet-safe electrical products available that can help protect your pets from electrical shock. For example, you can use cable covers or cable protectors to cover electrical cables and keep them out of reach of your pets. - CONSIDER INSTALLING RCD - RESIDUAL CIRCUIT DEVICE
Residual Circuit Devices (RCD's) are devices that can help you and also protect your pets from electrical shock. RCD's monitor the flow of electricity and turn off power automaticly if they detect a fault. Consider installing RCDs in your home to provide an extra layer of protection for your pets.
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR PET IS ELECTROCUTED
Even with all of precautions in place, accidents can still happen. It's important to be prepared for emergencies by having a plan in place. Keep a first-aid kit handy and know what to do in case of an electrical shock. If your pet does experience an electrical shock, seek veterinary attention immediately.
SYMPTOMS OF ELECTRICAL SHOCK IN PETS
The symptoms of electrical shock in pets can vary depending on the severity of the shock, but may include:
- Burns or singeing around the mouth, nose, or paws
- Seizures or tremors
- Loss of consciousness
- Difficulty breathing or irregular heartbeat
- Muscle pain or stiffness
TRUST YOUR LOCAL HOME ELECTRICIAN
Whether the result of instinct, health issues, or emotional stress, a cat chewing through your cables can damage your appliances and be dangerous to their health and yours. Don’t leave that potential danger lingering in your home. Call Viliam, the licensed electrician from V&R Electrical services at 077 166 255 41 or schedule an appointment online today to have damaged cables repaired (or replaced) – and one or more of your cat’s nine lives be saved!
