[Scarlett]

Our cat chewed into 1/2 (wires cut on one side of cord) of a power cord attached to an aquarium filter. Would it be safe to completely cut the cord into 2 pieces, strip off parial outer cord covering, twist the 2 sets of wires back together and then cover it all with electircal tape?

This thing cost $30+. I hope he got a good shock out of it. The plug was completely pulled out of the socket. This cat has chewed on and chewed through numerous cords throughout 11 years. *sigh*

Thanks for anyone's help.

Scarlett

[labman]

I am forever warning people that their DOGS may chew electrical cords. People get away with stuff like that, but I would like to see a more substantial repair. Can you open the housing, and replace the entire cord? Would the cord be long enough if you cut it off and put a plug on what was left? Thank to our one Lab puppy, we have a lamp with a very short cord. Finally, yes, do it, but add the solderless connectors, toothpaste cap like things made to securely connect wires. However, that still isn't good. They are meant for inside a box where the wires won't be disturbed. Sta-Cons, a crimped connector are even better.

[Scarlett]

All good info... Thanks! I do know what those connectors are as my ex is an electrician. Too bad I didn't get all of his knowledge in the divorce. :o)

I did think about replacing the plug since he chewed only about 4 inches from the plug, but I didn't know how or if that was hard to do.

[labman]

In that case, don't fool around. The more complicated plugs require removing screws to take them apart, removing the insulation from the ends and putting the bare wires under screws. For a light, flat, 2 wire cord, you should be able to find a plug that only requires inserting a cleanly cut wire and squeezing it together. If the old plug was 3 prong, you are stuck with a 3 prong plug and its screws.

[Scarlett]

Thanks so much for your help - You saved me 30+ dollars... off to the hardware store I go...