Cats are inquisitive by their nature and are prone to exploring new places and tasting new things in their quest to get to know their environment and stay engaged. Unfortunately, sometimes this can result in them doing something that is harmful to their health.
Here are some of the best ways to keep your cat safe at home.
- Don’t leave out any food not intended for your cat
Pet nutrition experts James Wellbeloved advise that some human foods, like chocolate, grapes, and raisins, are toxic to cats and can cause health issues. To avoid your cat eating something that is bad for them, make sure you never leave these foods out where your cat can reach them. Also, if you own another pet, make sure you pick the food up before your cat gets a chance to try it.
- Keep small objects in closable containers
Compared to many common pets, cats are very good at knowing not to eat many small, typical household items. Most will treat a loose pin, earring, elastic band, etc. with indifference. However, while many will not try to eat these items, some will want to play with them, especially a young kitten. To prevent your cat from accidentally choking or hurting him or herself, make a habit of keeping all small items shut away in closable containers when not in use.
- Always replace the lids on chemicals and medicines
Similarly, if you have any chemicals or medicines in the house, replace the lids as soon as you have used them to stop your cat from getting curious and tasting them. Whether this is motor oil in the garage or cough medicine in the bathroom, put the lids on as soon as you are finished using them and give the side of the container a quick wipe down. In the case of cleaning products, keep them shut away in a cupboard, and keep your cat out of any rooms you have cleaned until the product has dried.
- Replace toxic plants with cat-friendly alternatives
Some plants are so brightly coloured and nice-smelling that cats can’t resist trying them. Others produce pollen which cats might brush up against, later consuming the pollen when they groom themselves. Unfortunately, some common houseplants are toxic to cats. Rather than tempting fate, you can make your home safer by replacing any potentially harmful plants with known safe alternatives.
- Check warm and dark spaces for a dozing kitty
Cats love finding warm, dark, quiet spaces to have an afternoon kip. Unfortunately, sometimes this means they sneak into places we wouldn’t normally expect. It could be a garage or under the sofa, or inside a recently used and still warm oven or dryer. To avoid trapping your cat somewhere they shouldn’t be, develop a habit of always checking spaces before you close a door or use a device and knowing where your cat is as often as possible.
Finally, provide your cat with interactive toys and make time every day to spend time with your cat. The more engaged they feel with you and other, safer activities, the less likely they are to do something to cause them harm.