Common Household Dangers to Cats: Living Room and Home Office

Indoor cats face fewer dangers than outdoor ones, but homes definitely have dangers of their own cat parents should be mindful of.  Some of these potential household dangers just might surprise you.

Small Office Supplies: Cats are curious by nature.  They like to play with things we might not think they'd enjoy, like rubber bands or paper clips.  However, cats can easily swallow small items commonly kept in a home office, such as thumb tacks, rubber bands, paper clips, and small erasers.  These objects may cause an intestinal obstruction, which requires surgery to fix.  Please keep all small office supplies in closed containers out of your cat's reach.

Electrical Cords: Even if you don't have a cord chomper, it's a good idea to invest in some cord covers or Bitter Apple to spray your cords with.  Cats who chew electrical cords risk electrocution, electrical burns in the mouth or on the tongue, seizures, cardiac arrest, and breathing difficulties.

Batteries: According to Vetstreet, batteries are toxic to both cats and dogs.  They may cause ulcers in the stomach, mouth, and esophagus.  Keep batteries in a desk drawer or a closet - somewhere your cat cannot access.

Toys: Believe it or not, cat toys can pose a hazard to your furry friend.  Toys with parts that can be chewed or torn off easily by your kitty pose a choking hazard.  Purchase toys that don't have parts that can be easily chewed or torn off them.

Additionally, it's best to keep all fishing pole type toys out of your cat's reach when you're not playing with her.  Cats love string, yarn, etc. and can chew through and swallow the string on fishing pole toys.