Can Curiosity Realy Kill Your Cat? - Poison Proofing The Home

Cats are of course curious by nature, they love nosing around in any place they can get into. Naturally, they are curious about you and your belongings. Remember, the cat does not belong to you, you belong to the cat, and therefore, your things are their things. Here you will find home safety tips for your cat.

1. First of all, if your cat requires cat flea control medication, 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. 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. If you must use mouse traps or bait make sure they are put in places your cat cannot get to such as under sinks. If your cat likes to open doors purchase some child safety locks for your cabinet doors and that will keep him from opening them.

4. 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. 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. Never give your cat chocolate. They like chocolate and will eat it if they can get it, but chocolate contains theobromine, which is a diuretic and a stimulant to the heart. People can clear theobromine fairly quickly from their systems. However cats cannot and this is why it can be lethal.

7. For the best cat health 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. If you use pesticides or fertilizers on your lawn do not let your cat have access to this area before it has time to dry. These chemicals can be toxic to your cat. Also make sure after you use them they are closed tightly and stored 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.

David Lee is the owner & designer of several pet sites. Find info on cat kidney disease, finding the best cat trees, pet steps and furniture for your cat. And for dog lovers German Shepherd puppys.