Top Household Hazards for Cats
Your cat is curious, sticking his nose into random places. But his exploration may expose him to some not-so-obvious dangers in your home. It takes just a bit of time and know-how to “cat-proof” your house so your kitty stays healthy and safe. These are some of the most common household items that poisonous or hazardous to cats:
Medicines
Some human over-the-counter & prescription medicines pose serious threats to cats, so keep them in a safe place so cats can’t get into them, including:
Antidepressants
Cold medicines
Pain relievers, aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen
Cancer medicines
Diet pills
Vitamins & supplements
NEVER give your pet any medicine without talking to your vet first.
2. Indoor & outdoor plants
Common plants can be hazardous to cat’s health, including:
Aloe
Lily
Tulip
Poinsettia
Mistletoe
Hyacinths
Azalea
Chrysanthemum
Marijuana
3. Human foods
Your kitty may beg when you sit down to eat (or steal bits when you’re not looking), but some human foods are poisonous, including:
Alcohol
Chives
Garlic
Onions
Caffein (coffee, soda, tea)
Chocolate
Grapes
Raisins
Yeast dough
Xylitol (found in sugarless gums, candies, & toothpastes)
4. Insecticides & other chemicals
Some chemicals taste especially good to cats. Keep chemicals locked away, especially:
Antifreeze
Detergents
Bleach
Fertilizer
Herbicides
Dog flea & tick medication (pills, collars, spot-on flea treatments, sprays, & shampoos)
Insect & rodent bait/trays
5. Other household hazards
Watch out for common household items that can choke or strangle your cat. Some may even block his intestines if he swallows them:
Chicken bones
Holiday decorations (including lights & tinsel)
Dental floss, yarn, or string
Toys with small or moveable parts