Cat-proofing your house for winter
As winter approaches, your cat will probably want to spend much more time indoors. However, time indoors can lead to accidents unless you've thought about making your home safe for felines. Cats love to explore and it's not unusual to find mischievous felines in cupboards they're not supposed to be in. Many people also forget that cats are as happy to do their climbing indoors as outdoors and are surprised when they find a treasured antique, which was on the window sill, in pieces on the floor.
A good way to set about cat-proofing your house is to imagine her as you would a toddler. Remember cats get everywhere and can squeeze into the tightest of spaces if they have a mind to do so. Don't assume that your cat won't get into the wardrobe if you've left it open or that she won't attack that plant on the floor. Leave nothing to chance and you can guarantee that you've saved a lot of trouble later on.
Your cat may be very well mannered, but there are not many cats that aren't tempted by titbits - even if they are in rubbish bags. Keep all rubbish in tightly closed containers at all times, indoors and outdoors. Bones and other scraps can be dangerous if your cat gets her paws on them - you really don't want to find your cat choking on a chicken bone. Make sure you don't leave unattended food on the kitchen surfaces, especially at the same time as having the hob on. Your cat may think she's safe jumping up to get the food but only succeed in harming herself on a hot cooker.
Another hazard to cats in the home are poisonous plants. It's a good idea to swot up on which plants are toxic to cats and simply don't have them in the house. That way your cat can't be tempted to eat them or play with them. If you have any plants that you particularly like, keep them out of your cat's way - especially if they are in breakable pots and can be easily knocked off ledges.
Cats love small, enclosed spaces, even dangerous ones like washing machines, refrigerators and dryers (these are the worst, - they're small, enclosed and warm). Don't leave the doors open while you aren't in the room and make sure you also never close the doors without first checking for furry occupants. You may also be surprised to know that the toilet can be a kitty favourite. Keep the toilet lid closed at all times to save your cat jumping in and never allow her to drink from the toilet. Even though the water is freshly supplied each time the toilet is flushed, the bowl plays host to thousands of germs, which could easily result in a very sick cat.
Sometimes you need to have eyes in the back of your head to keep up with a mischievous cat! But as long as you remember that prevention is better than cure, you should be able to keep your special friend safe this winter.