Cats are playful, curious creatures, but this playful nature can sometimes lead them into trouble. Within the comfort of your home, there may be hidden dangers that could pose threats to your whiskered friend.
What are these perils? How serious can they be? And most importantly, what can you do to keep your cat safe? In this article, we'll explore common household hazards, from small objects and appliances to unexpected places where your cat might find himself in danger.
Join us as we discuss the unseen risks and how to protect your loving companion.
Hidden Dangers in the Home
While many cat owners take comfort in knowing that keeping their cats indoors can contribute to a safer and healthier life, hidden dangers still lurk within the home. These unseen threats often lie in everyday objects that we might overlook.
One common but unexpected hazard is a cat's tendency to swallow objects that were never meant to be consumed. These instances are not as rare as you might think and can lead to serious health problems.
Dr. Patricia Hague, who runs the Cat Hospital of Las Colinas, has witnessed this behavior more times than she can count. Her experience with cats and their adventurous eating habits has given her a unique perspective on these dangers.
For example, she once treated a cat that had attempted to eat a balloon, starting with the ribbon. In another case, a cat had swallowed embroidery thread, with a needle attached to the other end. These instances were alarming, but thankfully, both cats survived.
These stories serve as a stark reminder that even within the safety of our homes, cats are exposed to risks.
Rubber Bands, Strings, and Tiny Objects
Sondra York, the former cat chairperson for the Animal Rescue League, in Denton County Texas, recommends keeping a close eye out for rubber bands and string which could be swallowed, and then, consequently either wrap around the cat’s intestines or cut through them like a saw.
Paper clips, pins, and needles can puncture the stomach or any organ in the digestive tract as well, so caution should be exercised at all times.
Be sure to pick up any tiny objects you find on the floor. Anything that could choke a baby could harm your cat. Remove loose buttons, string, yarn, or bells from cat toys.
If your cat pulls one of these items off, it could strangle him or lodge in his intestines.
Milkcap rings are fun for cats to play with, but be sure they aren't getting worn out; they tend to fray and break into pieces. The broken bits hold the same dangers as buttons. If they start tearing, throw them away.
Appliances and Fixtures
Sadly, whoever first coined the phrase, "Curiosity killed the cat," really knew cats. Many an inquisitive cat has lost his life by becoming curious about a common household appliance.
Washer and Dryer
"I was horrified," York recalled. "As I walked away from the (clothes) dryer, I heard this ka-thunk, ka-thunk. I opened the door and there was my Snowshoe cat Ling Ling. I dread to think what would have happened if I had ignored the noise."
Ling Ling, dazed and dizzy, staggered around for a few minutes, but she survived.
Jane and her cat were not as fortunate. Walking away, she also heard her cat, but by the time she could open the door, it was too late, he had already broken his back.
To prevent these types of tragedies, always visually inspect the washer and the dryer before using them. Test the wet clothes in the dryer with a few shakes of the clothes as added insurance.
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Stove, Oven, and Dishwasher
For kitties, the kitchen is a maze of land mines. Cats have been known to jump on searing hot stove elements and suffer severe burns.
- Never leave a hot stove unattended.
- Also, don't forget to give the oven and broiler a quick glance before you close the door.
- Never leave the oven door open any longer than is necessary to remove a baked item.
- Open both oven and broiler doors and inspect the inside before you even turn on the oven.
- A quick once-over will protect both you and your cat against a family member's carelessness or a neighbor's child's mischief.
The same approach is wise when operating the dishwasher. Cats have been known to sneak into the dishwasher and drown.
Toilet Bowl
It seems no room in the house is immune from cat danger. Mary lost her kitten when he fell into the open commode and drowned. Keeping the toilet lid closed could also prevent a crushing blow to a cat curious about water.
It is unwise to encourage your cat to drink from the toilet bowl. Besides the danger of drowning, there is also the possibility of bacterial infections from the water.
While some of the accidents with appliances are freak occurrences, a little precaution costs nothing and could ultimately save your cat's life.
Specific Preventive Measures
While it's crucial to recognize the hidden dangers in your home that could potentially harm your cat, understanding the specific measures you can take to prevent these dangers can make all the difference. Here are practical guidelines and recommendations for cat-proofing different areas of the home:
1. Secure Small Objects
Cats are often intrigued by small objects that can be batted around. Make sure to store items like rubber bands, paper clips, and pins in closed containers and keep them out of your cat's reach.
2. Appliance Safety
Always check appliances like washers, dryers, ovens, and dishwashers before use. Consider adding child locks to prevent your cat from opening them.
3. Cover Electrical Outlets
Cats may be drawn to electrical outlets, risking electric shock. Use outlet covers to keep them safe.
4. Safe Toys
Check your cat's toys regularly for wear and tear. Remove any small parts that may become detached and pose a choking hazard.
5. Protect Against Toxic Substances
Store cleaning products, medications, and other potentially toxic substances in locked cabinets or high shelves where your cat cannot access them.
6. Plant Safety
Many common household plants can be toxic to cats. Check the toxicity of your plants and keep harmful ones out of reach.
7. Water Safety
Keep toilet lids closed and monitor any water features to prevent the risk of drowning.
8. Window and Balcony Safety
If your cat enjoys watching the world from high places, make sure windows and balconies are securely screened or barred to prevent accidental falls.
9. Avoid Human Foods
Keep human foods, especially those that are toxic to cats (like chocolate and onions), securely stored away.
10. Regularly Inspect Cat Equipment
Regularly inspect and replace any frayed or worn equipment, such as collars, leashes, and scratching posts, to prevent unexpected accidents.
By taking these specific preventive measures, you'll create an environment where your whiskered friend can play, explore, and rest with minimal risk. Remember, your vigilance and attention to these details are the key to a safe and happy home for your cat.
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Related Reading:
When Can A Kitten Safely Explore The House?
Cat Safety Tips For Your Home & Garden [By Room]
Written Contributions and Personal Stories by Dusty Rainbolt
Dusty Rainbolt is an award-winning cat writer. In her spare time, Dusty writes product reviews for Catnip and Whole Cat journal so she can get cat bowls and other free stuff. She also co-authors a monthly column with Hobbes Egan for City & Country Pets.
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