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A black cat sits on a gray rug with its head turned aside, next to a TV remote with chewed buttons and crumbs. 25 / 26

Somebody Chewed the TV Remote, and the Black Cat Is Staring at the Wall

AI imageblack cattv remoteliving room

The remote control lies on the rug with its rubber buttons gnawed down and little crumbs of black plastic scattered around it. Shadow the black cat sits right beside it, head turned sharply to the side, staring into the distance. The rug is gray and nubby, the sofa behind him is draped in a knitted blanket, and a mug and a green plant sit by the window. In the soft evening light his coat shines like velvet, and he has the air of someone who is very busy thinking about something else entirely.

Cats sometimes chew on remotes, cords and other electronics for reasons that make perfect sense to them. The buttons are soft and rubbery, the object smells like the people they love, and remotes often sit in a warm spot where people spend time. Kittens and young cats chew to explore, and any cat may chew when bored or stressed. Electronics deserve extra caution because swallowed plastic and small batteries can cause serious problems, and chewed cords may be a shock hazard. Keeping remotes and cables out of reach, using cord covers and offering a variety of safe chew toys can make a big difference. Black cats are no more mischievous than any other, though they are often playful and affectionate. If a cat has swallowed anything that is not food, call your vet right away.

Shadow will get a new toy and a pat, and the remote will find a high shelf. The sofa stays his favorite spot.

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