Cat-proofing Your Home

Even when electrical cords are not plugged in, a curious or playful cat may become tangled in them, possibly toppling the object they're connected to. At best, something like a lamp may be broken. At worst, your pet could be injured by a falling object. Protecting your pet is a good investment for everyone.

There are things we do to make our homes safe for our family – like putting up a baby gate to keep a toddler from falling down the stairs. While that may not work for a cat, they are naturally curious creatures, which makes them vulnerable to items we take for granted around the house. Here are some things you can do to make your home safer for your feline family member.

Begin by putting household chemicals in a closed cabinet. Cleaners, detergents, fabric softener sheets, antifreeze, even air fresheners, can harm your cat. Don’t use them around or on your pet, its bowls or its bedding, especially if they contain pine or phenol. Store fertilizers, insecticides and other outdoor chemicals in a cat-proof location, as well.

Electrical cords can pose a danger for the cat that chews on one and bites through to the wires inside. Your furry friend may also find itself tangled in the cord and pull a heavy lamp or iron down. If it lands on your pet, you might be making an emergency trip to the veterinarian.

Read more: https://www.apr.org/post/cat-proofing-your-home
(Alabama Public Radio)