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Cats are crafty and can maneuver into strange positions and gain access to small spaces. They are known for their climbing ability and intelligence and can sometimes get into things they should not be able to. Thus the origin of the colloquialism, curiosity killed the cat! While your cat might seem like an unstoppable escape artist or fledgling acrobat, you can take several steps to ensure her safety. Cat proofing your home will help to keep her safe as well as prevent peril to your prized possessions. Follow the following tips and you will be on your way to a cat proofed home:

1. Beware of toxic house plants. There are a variety of outdoor plants poisonous to cats; however, cats are companion animals and should be kept indoors. This lulls some cat owners into a false sense of security. There a variety of indoor plants toxic to cats including, but not limited to, azaleas, oleander, yew plants and easter lilies.

2. Keep rodent and pest traps out of reach. Many homeowners use a variety of baits and traps for roaches, slugs, ants and mice causing danger to their precious feline friends. Cats are drawn to the smell of the bait and can be tempted to eat it themselves. Always place these items far out of reach of your crafty cat to avoid the unpleasant side effects.

3. Be aware of every day items. Cats are prone to getting into things that are bad for them and the list might surprise some owners. Coffee grounds, cigarette butts, batteries, play dough, mothballs, fabric softener and potpourri can cause illness, corrosive lesions and even death.

4. Put up the cleaning products. Common cleaning products can cause gastrointestinal problems in cats so be aware and lock them up. Some even argue that cats should not be present when cleaning products producing strong fumes are used. Owners should also be aware that common car care or garage items such as anti-freeze are extremely toxic and even small amounts can be fatal.

5. Use the proper products. When people cut corners and use flea products or medications not designed specifically for cats they could be causing irreparable harm to their cat. Make sure to read all of the product packaging information and avoid using any product that is designed for use in dogs only. While some Veterinary medications are universal for cats and dogs, many are not and can be quite dangerous.

6. Cover your furniture. Until you have established proper outlets for your cat’s natural scratching instinct you should plan on covering furniture and removing or tying up draperies to prevent damage done by clawing cats. Try throw blankets or covers specifically designed for furniture. You should also provide adequate toys or towers for your cat to use this behavior in a manner that will not destroy your possessions.

7. Beware choking hazards. Everyday items including paper clips, rubber bands and plastic bags can be choking hazards for curious cats. Try keeping these items organized in desk drawers to keep them out of the reach of your cat.

8. Place your breakables out of reach. Cats are natural climbers and if left unchecked will jump on almost any surface in your home. When doing so, they can knock fragile items onto the floor; causing them to break. Until your cat settles in you should consider relocating or packing precious knick knacks and valuables to avoid the chance of permanent damage.

9. Tie up the cords. Electrical cords and mini-blind cords alike are tempting objects for your cat. They dangle just within reach encouraging play. In these cases cat play could cause the choking or hanging of your pet or damage to your home. In either case it is best to tie up and organize loose cords.

10. Close your windows or check their screens. While some think that cats always land on their feet, serious injuries can occur if your cat makes a jump for it out of your second story window. Cats can be prone to jumping out windows and injuries are most common from between 10 and 12 feet so make sure those screens are on tight or simply close the windows.

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Article submitted by pet super store a site with underground dog fence, no bark collar and dog training collar.

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