Here are some ways to kitten (and cat) proof your home to keep them safe!
1. String –
Keep string, ribbon, yarn, tinsel, rubber bands, plastic jug rings, paper clips, pins, dental floss, and other temptations away from your curious cat. Anything string-like that is swallowed by your cat can cause a partial or complete obstruction. It can saw through the wall of the intestinal tract and cause peritonitis, an inflammation of the membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and abdominal organs.
Keep sewing baskets behind closed doors. Put dental floss and string in a trash container with a secure lid. Don’t use yarn or ribbons to decorate packages. Hide rubber bands and toys with tails or streamers. Keep shoes in closets to protect kittens from ingesting the shoelaces. Put away decorative throw pillows, blankets bordered with tassels or fringe until the kitten is older and less curious.
Toys that dangle from a string are great fun and an excellent way to interact with your pet. However, these should never be left alone with the kitten because they pose a risk if the string is swallowed or if it gets wrapped around the kitten’s neck during play. Put fishing-pole toys in a closet with a closed door when you can’t be around to supervise playtime.
2. Cords and Curtains –
Fold and secure your window blinds cord out of kitty's reach. If she gets tangled up in it, she could strangle. It never hurts to flip your curtains up over their rods for a couple months. Tuck electrical cords out of the kitty’s reach. Cover electric cords, such as the tangle from your computer, with covers sold for that purpose. Look for cord organizers that enclose them in chew-proof tubes.
3. Medication –
Never give a kitten any medication without checking with your veterinarian first. Be extra carful to pick up any pills you drop.
4. Plants –
Kittens love to nibble on greenery. Keep harmful plants like chrysanthemum, azalea, tulip bulbs, oleander, sago palms, rhododendrons and castor beans are just a few of the plants that can be harmful to your cat. Lilies are particularly poisonous, and even small amounts can make your kitten sick.
Put away or throw away anything that might tempt a kitten to eat it, including potpourri scented with aromatic oils. It may smell wonderful, but it can be deadly if your cat eats them.
5. Appliances, Furniture & Crawlspaces –
Kittens will explore, play or nap in small, dark places like the washer or dryer, the sleeper sofa or under the recliner. Always keep the door to your clothes dryer closed, and double-check inside before using it. Be aware of where your cat or kitten is before closing the refrigerator door. The food can be enticing, but they can quickly suffer from hypothermia.
Do a kitten search before folding up the sleeper sofa or lowering the footrest of a recliner. Pets can become trapped underneath and be severely injured. Keep your toilet lid down at all times, lest kitty fall in or drink from it. Better yet, keep your bathroom off-limits to your kitten unless you absolutely have to keep her litter box there.
Consider purchasing inexpensive baby latches for floor-level cupboards and closets. An especially curious cat may need baby latches on upper level cupboards as well. Be on the lookout for potential access points that your kitten could sneak into. Watch out for spaces under curios and hutches. Kittens can become trapped there.
