Once you made the decision to bring a new kitten into your home, it's time to kitty-proof their environment to keep them safe from household dangers. Kitty-proofing your home will safeguard your new pet's life while also keeping your personal possessions protected. When not sleeping, kittens are overactive balls of energy which can lead to accidents and even emergency trips to the veterinarian.
Kitty-Safe Toys
Cats and kittens are known to play with just about anything they can get their paws on. Every year, veterinarians see thousands of emergency cases of intestinal blockages in cats and especially kittens. These blockages are caused by small items that your pet has found and ingested including coins, rubber bands, twist ties, cotton balls, sewing supplies, and the list goes on. Think of your kitten as a toddler and keep anything that can fit into your cat's mouth out of harm's way. Items to be weary of include small game pieces, paper clips, buttons, and even the small eyes attached to stuffed animals.
String, ribbon, and yarn are a favorite plaything with cats and kittens however; these items should be put away once you and your pet are finished playing. These can not only be swallowed causing blockages but they are known to cause strangulation if they become wrapped around your kitten's neck. Plastic bags are also a great source of amusement for felines but your cat can also get caught or tangled in the handles. Should you give your kitten a plastic bag for play, always cut away the handles of the bags. If you observe your kitten chewing on the bags, remove them immediately as small pieces can also cause blockages if they are swallowed.
Household Dangers
Kittens ingesting toxic substances can quickly turn into a life or death situation. Keep all household plants, medications, and cleaners in a safe and secure location. If poisonous cleaners are kept in a lower cabinet, assure that your cat cannot open the door. Automotive chemicals like antifreeze should never be stored where animals are present.
Household items that you might not even think about can become dangerous. Dental floss is a tasty treat to your kitten but can cause a blockage when swallowed. Your toilet can quickly turn into a drowning pool to a young kitten. When they are small, they can easily jump up on the rim and fall in but may not be able to get themselves back out. And while considering the wellbeing to your kitten, you will also want to consider the safety to your valuables. If you don't want that precious vase damaged, you may want to place it well out of kitty's reach.
Drapery and blind cords should be out of reach as well as electrical cords. Should your kitten chew on the cord, they could be electrocuted. For the inquisitive kitten and especially as she becomes older, remember to keep counters clean of temptations and trashcans should have secure lids or placed out of reach.
Places and Spaces
Your small kitten will be able to roam into places you wouldn't think imaginable. These areas (like the inside of your toilet) should be secured and/or covered to prevent accidents. These small spaces include air vents and fireplaces. Check that your vent is securely attached to your dryer and that doors to unsafe rooms are kept closed. Keep all medications out of reach and should you carry medicines in your handbag, keep your purse zippered shut or behind closed doors. When going outdoors, be aware of where your cat or kitten is lurking. These little guys are swift and can quickly be gone as soon as you open that door.
Many of these suggestions come from firsthand knowledge. As the owner of many cats over my lifetime, I thought I had seen it all until our latest kitten took a swim in the commode and had to be saved. These inquisitive creatures enjoy exploring in places that you least expect and just when you think you have your home cat-safe, they teach you something new. As your kitten grows, you will find new territory that needs to be covered. By taking the steps to kitty-proof your home, you are saving yourself a lot of time, headaches, and money while keeping your special pet safe in their environment.