The Truth About Cats' Safety

By Paul Kramer

Some owners like to train their cats to walk on leash. If you decide to take your feline friend outdoors for a walk, you will need to buy a harness and leash. The leash should be no longer than 3 feet (0.9 m) in length. This will allow you to keep him close to you as you walk.

There are many different styles of harness available, but no matter what type you choose, it must be escape proof and fit securely around your cat so that he cannot wriggle free. Harnesses are sold based on the size and weight of the cat. The one you choose should fit snugly around the body, but it should not be so tight that you cannot slip two fingers between the harness and the cat.

Before you go outside, let your feline companion become used to the feel of the harness around his body. Practice walking him on the leash and harness indoors for a few days or until he is comfortable wearing it. If he becomes upset, take it off and try again later.

It is important that you safeguard your home or cat proof it before your new cat arrives. Cats and kittens are very curious, and they will find hazards that you never even knew existed. If you have never owned a cat before, get down on your hands and knees and look around from your cat's point of view. You will be amazed at what you find. There are many household items we take for granted and use in our everyday lives that can be poisonous or otherwise dangerous to your pet.

Some on the common household dangers include household hazards such as unsecured doors and window screens, let stoves, ovens, dryers, electric appliances, electrical cords, recliners and swivel chairs. Besides that we need to look out for choking hazards such as small objects that are easily swallowed. These items include paper clips, pen tops, rubber bands, thumbtacks, buttons, bones, coins, dental floss, nails, screws and staples.

Toxic plants are also common household dangers for your cats. Some common toxic plants include aloe Vera, baby's breath, daffodil, Easter lily, eucalyptus, geranium, holly, iris, marigold, mistletoe, morning glory, peony, philodendron, poinsettia, primrose, tiger lily, tulip and also dried plural arrangements because they may contain chemical preservatives that are poisonous.

Besides that, cleaners such as laundry detergent, bleach and drain cleaner are also danger to your cats. Besides that, here are several common items that are probably dangerous to your cats or kittens:

- insecticides and fertilizers
- antifreeze, gasoline, paint thinner and mothballs
- drugs and medications (including acetaminophen, ibuprofen and aspirin)
- alcohol
- holiday hazards (including lit candles, glass ornaments, tinsel, ribbons, bows, metal hooks and chocolate)

Keep all hazardous materials away from your cat. Be sure to teach your family members about cat proofing your house and the importance of feline safety. For further information, you can check ASPCA's website for more information on pet safety.

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