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How do I keep my cat safe?
Kitten-proofing your home
Congratulations on your new kitten! As you welcome this new addition to your home, you need to makes sure it’s a safe place for this curious and lively little friend.
Keep in mind this list is not complete – for kittens, everything is fair game!
You can find a complete list of substances poisonous to cats (including those listed above) at www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poisons/.
If your kitten eats something you are not sure is safe, call the Pet Poison Helpline at 1 800 213 6680 or your veterinarian right away to see if medical attention is needed.
How can I keep harmful items away from my kitten?
Here are some tips:
Keep hanging cords, such as those for blinds or curtains, tied or coiled out of reach.
Store or secure delicate objects, your kitten may accidentally knock over and break fragile times, and the broken pieces may cause injury.
Use a trash can with a locking lid, or store your trash under the sink. Be especially mindful when disposing bones since these are attractive to cats and can be harmful to their intestinal tract.
Check inside the washer and/or dryer before closing the door, these are very tempting hiding spots for kittens and cats. This is also true for refrigerators, freezers and even cabinet drawers. Keep them closed when not in use.
Electrical cords are especially alluring hazard for kittens, unplug them when not int use and deter chewing by placing them in a cord protector.
Cover garbage disposal switches. Cats may play with electric switches, such as the one for a garbage disposal unit.
Childproof latches can prevent your curious kitten/cat from opening drawers and cabinets, while keeping potentially dangerous foods and cleaning supplies out of reach.
Keep all medications, both over-the-counter and prescription (human and animal), in a secure cabinet and be sure to pick up any dropped pills.
Place dangerous plants out of your cat’s reach. Better yet, do not have them in the house at all.
Put all small and stringy things out of reach or inside a cabinet or drawer.
Cleaning sponges often retain food smells and are attractive to cats. Cats may chew the sponges into pieces which when swallowed may lead to an intestinal obstruction.
Make sure your door and window screens are secure and have sturdy latches.
Remove tablecloths from tables when not in use; kittens may be curious about what is on the table and try to climb the tablecloth.
Always keep the bathroom door shut or the toilet seat cover down since a curious kitten could fall into the toilet and be unable to get out.
How can I be prepared for a medical emergency?
Pet health items to keep on hand
Be prepared for emergencies
As hard as we try to protect our pets from harm, accidents and emergencies happen. Therefore, it’s best to be well prepared.
1. Have your veterinarian clinic’s and the local emergency clinic’s contact information available
2. There are pet focused first aid classes or first aid manuals available, please discuss with your pet’s care team for guidance on their recommendations.
3. Feline First aid kit
Buy a feline first aid kit or gather basic medical supplies yourself and keep them in a water-resistant container. Store the kit where it is easy to access.
Start with the list above and then talk to your veterinarian about other recommended supplies to include, if any.
If you are unsure of what to do for your cat in a medical emergency, call your veterinarian for advice, and be ready to take your cat to a local veterinary clinic or animal hospital immediately.
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