Cats are mischief-makers and this is one of the many reasons why we adore them. However, their amusing tomfoolery can also result in their safety being put in grave danger during play. To keep your kitty safe, watch out for the everyday items below that could potentially harm your cat:
Yarn and ribbons
It’s rare to find a cat that doesn’t love to pounce on string! If these are among your pet’s favorite toys, make sure that you supervise her when she plays with it, and that you always put it out of her sight when not. You don’t want your cat to swallow pieces of yarn, ribbon, tinsel, string, or even dental floss as it can easily wrap itself around kitty’s intestines and later result in blockage or worse, sever them.
Human food
Our feline friends can be notorious when it comes to begging for people food. However difficult you might find it to resist those pleading eyes, never give them human foods known to be toxic for them such as chocolate, onions, grapes and raisins. Also, only indulge kitty with cooked fish and poultry treats when they are boneless (raw bones are safe for cats!). You would never want for her digestive tract to be punctured with splinters or become obstructed.
Houseplants
Cats are generally carnivores but some kitties love to munch on greens every now and then. Because of this, you have to be familiar with houseplants that are known to be poisonous to cats. Some of the most common toxic houseplants are lilies and aloes. To help you give kitty her own little salad bar without putting her life in any form of hazard, grow some cat grass at home or purchase one at a pet store.
Household chemicals
Antifreeze as well as rust remover contains ethylene glycol which is a poisonous substance that gives it a sweet smell. Your cat may find this element enticing, so you have to be on the lookout to make sure that your pet doesn’t ingest it. Another ordinary but harmful household chemical are the liquid air-fresheners. This contains cationic detergent; a substance that can burn kitty’s mouth and the rest of her digestive system once she ingests it. To prevent his from happening, only buy non-toxic air fresheners for use at home. Many cats are also attracted to bleach, and may try to lick it. Be sure to thoroughly rinse dangerous chemicals off of any surface you’re cleaning.
Medications
Acetaminophen is a compound found in various over-the-counter medications as in pain relievers, like Tylenol. This is highly toxic to cats so make sure that you keep it in a place where kitty will not be able to reach – and be careful, we all know how cats love to open cabinets! Even flea medications, which sometimes have Permethrin, are harmful to our feline friends.
Familiarize yourself with all the common household items that are dangerous to your cat and keep them out of reach of their curious paws.
