How To Kitten Proof Your Home

If you are thinking about getting a kitten, a very important part of caring for your new pet is keeping him out of danger. There are many hazards around your home, many of which may not even occur to you at first. Kitten proofing your home is a lot like baby proofing, except that kittens are much smaller and can therefore fit in much tighter spaces. Here's how to kitten proof your home:

1. Keep edible items away from your cat. This includes a long list of items you may have never thought about. If you are defrosting raw meat, keep it out of reach. Put all garbage in a sealed can that your kitten can't get into or knock over. Many houseplants are poisonous to cats; if in doubt, put them out of reach of your new kitten. Do not leave open bowls of potpourri around; the oils in them can be poisonous for cats.
2. Guard open flames. Purchase a burner cover for your stove-top, and never leave a kitten in a room alone with lit candles or a fireplace.
3. Cover items that may be chewed. Many kittens will chew electrical wires, curtain tie-backs, and window blind cords. Remove them, cover them, or place them out of reach of your cat. Be aware that even young kittens can jump surprising distances.
4. Hide small objects. Medications, paper clips, rubber bands, sewing needs, and similar objects can look like toys for your cat, but they are easily swallowed. Keep them put away and out of reach. String, fishing line, and thread also make attractive toys that are dangerous for your pet.
5. Safeguard appliances. Once you get a new kitten, always remember to close the washing machine, dryer, oven, dishwasher, and other appliances. Otherwise, your kitten may try to climb inside and take a nap. Make sure your cat does not have access to full bathtubs or sinks, and always close the lid to the toilet so your cat can't fall in.
6. Safeguard the furniture. Cats can get trapped inside recliners, futons, and drawers. If this furniture is moved while they're inside, they could be injured. Make sure your cat is not inside before you use your furniture.
7. Store household chemicals. This principle is the same as if childproofing your home. Either keep them out of reach of the kitten, or install cabinet locks to keep your kitten out of these chemicals. Most of these are poisonous to cats, as are tobacco and nicotine patches or gum. Anti-freeze is especially dangerous because it tastes good to cats and is very poisonous. Use animal-safe insect repellents; many will kill pets if ingested.
8. Remove breakables. Expect your young cat to be very playful. Remove any objects that may be broken by your cat's playing.
9. Watch your cat closely. Always watch your cat closely for the first week. He will let you know if there's something you have forgotten to kitten-proof.

These easy steps can minimize the risks for your new kitten. Look through the eyes of a cat when determining potential problem areas around your home.