Cats are curious by nature. Everyone has heard “Curiosity killed the cat.” Well this can become a true a true statement if you are not careful. The following are a few ways to make sure your home is safe for your cat:
1. Fleas
First of all, if your cat has a flea problem, before using any product on the market for fleas contact your veterinarian and find out what they recommend. Using products meant for other animals such as dogs is not a good idea. That is why they make separate products. If the flea infestation has spread past the cat to the house and you either purchase a product to get rid of fleas or have someone come in to spray, you should find somewhere else for your cat to stay until it is safe to return. Breathing fumes from these products in a closed up house can be very harmful.
2. Plants
It is recommended for your cat’s safety to keep them inside. If you are a plant lover be careful of what plants your cat can come in contact with. Several varieties of plants can be lethal to cats. Easter lilies are one. Oleander is another. DO NOT allow cats to chew on the leaves of these plants. If your cat does go outside, be aware that azaleas are another plant that can be harmful to cats. That is one of the reasons for recommending that your cat should stay inside where you can monitor what he has access to.
3. Mouse Traps and Bait
When using these items, take particular care to place the items where your cat does not have access, such areas may include in cabinets and under sinks. However, if your cat has mastered the art of opening the cabinet doors, you may consider the use of child safety locks for the cabinet doors, thereby keeping the cat from gaining access.
4. Bathroom
If your cat doesn’t seem to be feeling well, call your veterinarian or take him to see the vet. Never try to medicate the cat yourself. Medicines for humans are not meant to be used on cats. One such medicine is acetaminophen. One maximum strength tablet (500 mg) can be fatal to a cat weighing 7 lbs.
5. Medicines
Just as with the acetaminophen, other drugs can be fatal to your cat. Keep all medicines in your bathroom medicine cabinet. This includes all your prescription medicines and anything that your cat may have access to. As previously said, cats are curious, and they will get into things they shouldn’t. Medicines you take on a daily basis or over the counter drugs that you keep in your home can all have toxic affects on cats.
6. Chocolate
Theobromine is a diuretic as well as a heart stimulant, found in chocolate. Humans have the ability to eliminate theobromine from their systems quickly, however a cat cannot. For this reason chocolate can be lethal to a cat.
7. Garage
While it is best for your cat to be inside, if he does go out with or without you, keep all chemicals such as antifreeze away from areas the cat has access to. Gasoline for your lawnmower, oil, or windshield washer should all be kept in your garage or storage building away from animals.
8. Lawn Products
Chemicals in lawn products are also toxic to a cat, such as fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides. A cat should not have access to any area treated by chemicals until the chemicals are safely dry. Take particular care to close all containers tightly and store them out of reach.
9. Miscellaneous Items
Since a cat is so very curious and playful, they may be exposed harmful items, such as pennies. A penny contains zinc, and is harmful to your pet. The levels of iron are high in items such as foot and hand warmers. Other items, which might cause sickness or death for a cat, include alcoholic drinks, batteries, play dough, dryer sheets, cigarettes and mothballs. Many more items can be lethal to your cat. Keep anything away from your cat that you would keep away from a child.
10. Household Cleaners
These same rules apply to household cleaners as well. Cats should not be in an area, which is undergoing cleaning procedures. Put away your supplies before giving the cat access to any room where you have been working. Chemicals found in household cleaners can burn the mouth or stomach of a cat when ingested. Although, most cats in general would not consume household cleaners, it is best to take these precautions.
