Sean Youngquist asked about power cords. A solution I implemented a couple of
months ago continues to work in the face of fourfold attack!
 
The local hardware stores carry a transparent, flexible PVC tubing in
various diameters from about 1/4" inside diameter up to several inches
inside diameter.  Select one that is just big enough to contain the power
cord.  Cut to length and thread the cord through it.  (Either disconnect
from the appliance/lamp end or alternatively remove and replace the plug.)
We have found the tubing to be sufficiently flexible that the cord will lie
reasonably well and as it is transparent it does not look too unsightly.
Even if the teeth get through the PVC they still can't reach the internal
wire.  (After a month of frustration, ours have now stopped trying to chew
the cord anyway.)
[Posted in FML issue 1264]