If you are a new cat owner or even an existing one, it is important to cat-proof your home. Studies have shown that cats have the mentality of a 2-year-old kid so that spells trouble.
This comprehensive guide will show you all the important ways how to cat-proof your home for peace of mind.
1. Secure All Windows
This can prevent the cat from leaping through the window upon seeing something it wishes to pursue.
Many cats love sitting by the window to soak up the sun and watch the world go by. But open windows can pose significant risks to curious cats, leading to deadly falls or escapes.
Securing all windows ensures that your cat can enjoy the view without danger.
Invest in high-quality, durable screens that are securely fastened to the window frames.
Installing window guards or grilles provides an extra layer of security, especially important in high-rise living situations.
This can prevent the cat from leaping through the window upon seeing something it wishes to pursue.
I’ve heard and seen far too many incidents of cats falling out of windows to their death or being severely injured.
I tend to prefer screens as it can fully prevent cats from squeezing out the window.
2. Replace Toxic Plants
Are you someone who loves having plants at home or growing them in your garden?
There are many houseplants that are poisonous to cats, causing anything from mild irritation to severe health issues upon ingestion.
For example:
- Lilies
- Sago palm
- Tulips
- Azaleas
- Oleander
Begin by identifying any plants you currently have that are toxic to cats. Remove these poisonous plants from your home or place them in areas completely inaccessible to your cat.
Before bringing new plants into your home, research to ensure they are safe for cats.
There are some cat that enjoy nibbling and chewing on plants. If you have such a cat, consider growing some cat grass at home.
Cat grass is a particular favorite for many cats and can be a safe and healthy option for them to chew on.
Related Article: Unlocking The Secrets Of Cat Body Language
3. Protect Your Furniture
Scratching to your cat comes as naturally as you picking your nose. It is an instinctive behavior that helps keep your cat’s claws in good shape.
But this natural habit can wreak havoc on your furniture, leaving you with frayed edges and claw marks on your favorite pieces.
Using furniture protectors is a practical and effective solution. Options range from sticky tape and plastic covers to specially designed mats.
Applying cat repellents to your furniture can further discourage your cat from getting too close. Please do not use essential oils as they can be very toxic to cats.
Use only non-toxic repellants.
You can train your cat to not scratch your furniture by redirecting its claws to a scratching post. Place several scratching posts and pads near the furniture that your cat is attracted to.
4. Hide Electric Cords
Although cats aren’t as ‘mouthy’ as dogs, leaving your electric cords might tempt your cat to start chewing on them.
Especially kittens with their playful and curious nature may find electrical cords tempting to bite on. This can lead to an electric shock or injury.
This includes phone chargers and looped cords, which can be particularly enticing and hazardous.
Using cord protectors or concealing cords effectively minimizes these risks.
Cord protectors made from durable chew-resistant materials can be used to cover your cords.
Exposed cords can be concealed behind furniture or under the carpets to keep them out of sight and reach.
5. Lock Up Your Cabinets
There’s no need for you to spend a large amount to change out your cabinet doors.
Ever wondered where the term “Cat Burglar” came from? Not only are cats stealthy but they can get into cabinets easily.
They can use their smaller paws and strong claws to pull stuff open. My cat can open my bedroom door when he wants to come in or out.
You don’t want your furry friend to be stuck in a drawer or getting access to a cabinet full of poisonous chemicals or cleaners.
This is especially true for areas like the garage, where hazardous substances are often stored such as antifreeze.
There’s no need for you to spend a large amount to change out your cabinet doors.
You can use cheaper alternatives such as childproof locks and magnetic locks to keep your cat out of your cabinets.
6. Cover Your Trash Cans
8 out of 10 times, my pet dog will be the one who is more interested in what’s in the trash can. But cats with their acute sense of smell can be tempted to do some scavenging.
Stop your cat from rummaging through garbage that could contain harmful substances or choking hazards.
Opt for cans with secure, tight-fitting lids that may include locks or clasps for added security. Heavy-duty materials like metal offer stability and are less likely to be knocked over.
Pedal-operated lids require pressure to open which makes it a challenge for most cats (some will eventually figure it out).
These features stop your cat from eating garbage and dirtying your home by dragging trash all over.
7. Lock Your Bathroom Doors
The bathroom is a wonderland for cats. Some cats like to sleep in the bathroom while others are drawn by all the strange scents.
I wouldn’t encourage this from experience as many things can go wrong.
Your cat can ingest human toothpaste which is highly toxic to them. Water in the bathtub or toilet bowl can pose as a drowning risk for small kittens.
As a precaution, remember to keep your toilet bowl lid and bathroom door closed.
Some cats might even end up eating hair ties, dental floss and rubber bands which can cause harm to their digestive systems.
Related Article: Guide For New Cat Owners
8. Remove Breakable Objects
They are also notoriously known for knocking things off tables and top shelves.
If I had a dollar for something my cats have broken at home, I would be rich by now.
Cats love to climb and explore, especially in high places and tight spots where breakable items are often found.
They are also notoriously known for knocking things off tables and top shelves.
My cats have broken photo frames, figurines, small vases, etc.
Consider rearranging breakable items to higher, less accessible places or securing them in closed cabinets.
Adhesive strips and museum putty can be used to secure items on shelves and mantles, reducing the risk of them being knocked down.
9. Keep Human Food Away
Don’t leave any food lying around in the kitchen or the house. You might think that your simple plate of pasta cannot harm your cat but that’s not true.
Many ingredients found in human food can be very toxic to cats.
- Garlic
- Onions
- Chocolate
- Sodium
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
Make sure to keep uneaten food back in the fridge or cover it with a food cover.
10. Put Plastic Away
There are 2 things that most cats like hiding in.
Plastic bags and boxes.
Boxes are safe but plastic bags aren’t.
Cats are often attracted to plastic due to its texture and the crinkling sound it makes. This can cause them to chew or ingest plastic which is bad.
It can lead to choking, intestinal blockage and digestive tract injuries.
To safeguard your cat, store all plastic bags in secure cabinets or bins with lids. Dispose of plastic wrappers or packaging immediately after unpacking food items or other products.
11. Seal Up Small Spaces
Cats can squeeze into spaces as wide as their whiskers are.
Cats love to squeeze into the smallest and most unexpected spaces. I’ve also lost count of the number of times when I’ve found my cat in places that I can’t even fit my head into.
These explorations, while cute, can sometimes end up being dangerous when your cat gets stuck and starts to panic.
Make sure to identify and seal up any small spaces that could pose a risk to your cat especially in the kitchen or near any heat source.
Begin with a thorough inspection for any gaps or small openings, particularly around appliances, cabinets, and vents. Be sure to get on your keens and do so to get your cat’s point of view.
Cats can squeeze into spaces as wide as their whiskers are.
Make sure to cover all vents and ducts with secure grilles or screens to prevent your cat from getting stuck inside or escaping.
12. Beware Of Strings
Dangling strings present a hidden danger to our cat. Many cats love playing with strings which can lead to them getting entangled.
This can be very dangerous if the string ends up around your kitty’s neck and starts to suffocate it.
If you have blinds or curtains at home, be mindful of the blind cords or draw strings.
Place them higher up where it is out of your cat’s reach.
13. Fence Your Yard
I am a firm believer that our domesticated cats should only be kept indoors for safety reasons. Allowing your cat to roam around outside carries far too many risks.
Your cat can run away, be hit by a car or attacked by another animal.
But if you have a yard or garden, you can allow your cat some outdoor time as long as you cat-proof your yard.
You can further supervise your cat’s outdoor time by putting it in a cat harness. Try to get your cat used to the sensation of being in a harness indoors before taking it outside.
Cats are great climbers by nature so get a fence equipped with inward-facing overhangs which can significantly reduce the likelihood of your cat climbing over.
By slightly angling the fence inward, the sloping angle would make it much harder for your cat to climb.
It’s important to ensure the fence is tall enough, with a recommended minimum height of 6 feet.
Inspect the base of the fence for potential escape routes, such as gaps that your cat could squeeze through or areas they might dig under.
If fencing up your yard isn’t an option, consider constructing a catio. This enclosed outdoor space offers cats the freedom to enjoy the outdoors while remaining safe.
How Do I Cat Proof My X’mas Tree?
Christmas is the season for spending time with family, gift exchanges and making sure that your cat doesn’t destroy your X’mas tree.
Many cats love setting up camp within the tree and playing with the decorations. It looks adorable until things start to go south.
Here are a few ways to cat-proof your Christmas tree.
Stable Base
Ensure your Christmas tree has a sturdy base to prevent it from tipping over if your cat decides to climb it.
A heavy base can help stabilize the tree.
Avoid Shiny Decorations
Cats are often attracted to shiny tinsel and can ingest it or start swatting at them. Use decorations that are less appealing to cats such as unbreakable ornaments and fabric ribbons.
Secure Ornaments
Securely attach ornaments to the tree branches with ties rather than hooks which makes them a lot harder to detach from the tree.
Use a Cat Repellent
If your cat is still making a mess of your X’mas tree despite the above tips, use a cat-safe repellent to keep it away.
Please do not use any essential oils or anything that can be toxic to your feline friend.
Iggy Thorne, also known as ‘Iggy the Explorer,’ is a seasoned writer with a flair for adventure and a deep love for animals.
Not only does he craft captivating stories often set in the great outdoors, but he’s also a dedicated pet owner who has owned and fostered both dogs and cats.
His expertise in animal care extends to volunteering at local shelters, making him a credible voice in pet ownership.
With a unique blend of humor and adventure, Iggy’s writing is as engaging as it is informative.