13 Steps Before A Kitten Comes Home with You

Kitten-proofing your house is an essential step to ensure your new furry friend stays safe while exploring their new environment. Kittens are naturally curious and love to get into everything, so it's important to make sure your home is safe and kitten-friendly. Here's how you can kitten-proof your house:

1. Secure Hazardous Items

• Keep toxic substances out of reach: Many common household items, such as cleaning supplies, medications, and certain plants, can be toxic to kittens. Store cleaning products, pesticides, and medications in locked cabinets, and remove any toxic plants like lilies, aloe, and poinsettias from your home.

• Tidy up small objects: Kittens love to bat around small items, but small things like rubber bands, hair ties, buttons, and paper clips can be choking hazards. Keep these out of reach.

2. Protect Cords and Wires

• Cover electrical cords: Kittens love to chew on cords, which can be dangerous if they chew on electrical ones. Use cord protectors or covers, or invest in chew-resistant cords. If possible, hide cords behind furniture or use cable management clips to keep them out of sight.

• Avoid accessible strings and yarn: Strings, ribbons, and yarn can be fun toys for kittens, but they can also pose a choking or strangulation hazard. Always supervise play with string-like items, and store them safely when not in use.

3. Block Off Dangerous Areas

• Close off dangerous rooms: Make sure rooms with potentially harmful items (like the kitchen or bathroom) are inaccessible, or at least keep the doors closed. Kittens can easily get into cabinets, drawers, and appliances, so consider using baby-proof locks.

• Secure your fireplace: If you have a fireplace, make sure it's safely covered with a screen to prevent the kitten from getting too close to flames or hot surfaces.

4. Secure Furniture and Heavy Items

• Anchor heavy furniture: Kittens may try to climb or explore furniture like bookshelves, TVs, or cabinets. To prevent tipping, secure these items to the wall with safety straps or brackets.

• Keep sharp objects out of reach: Knives, scissors, and any sharp items should be stored in drawers or cabinets that kittens can’t access. A kitten’s curiosity can lead them to dangerous spots if items aren’t properly secured.

5. Litter Box Safety

• Proper placement: Place the litter box in an easily accessible but safe area that’s free from other household dangers. Ensure the box is sturdy, as some kittens might try to play with the contents. Make sure it’s in a place where they can go to it comfortably but isn’t hidden behind obstacles they can’t access.

6. Protect Windows and Balconies

• Secure windows: Kittens are often attracted to windows and may try to jump onto ledges. Secure screens tightly and consider window locks to prevent them from falling out of windows or getting stuck.

• Close balcony doors: If you have a balcony or terrace, make sure the door is securely closed, or consider adding a cat-safe barrier to prevent the kitten from climbing or falling over.

7. Kitten-Proofing the Kitchen

• Keep food and appliances out of reach: Many kitchen items, such as sharp utensils, hot stoves, and food items, can be dangerous for a kitten. Make sure cabinets are closed or use childproof locks to keep hazardous items away from the kitten.

• Remove toxic foods: Certain foods, such as chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, and raisins, are toxic to kittens. Make sure food is stored safely, and keep these items out of reach.

8. Create Safe Play Zones

• Provide safe spaces: Designate areas where your kitten can safely play, like a large playpen or enclosed room. Avoid using spaces where there are sharp edges or fragile objects that can break easily.

• Offer climbing options: Kittens love to climb, so providing cat trees, scratching posts, or shelves is a great way to keep them entertained while also keeping them away from dangerous surfaces like bookshelves or countertops.

9. Block Off Small Spaces

• Seal gaps: Kittens can fit into surprisingly small spaces. Check behind furniture, under the fridge, and in other nooks and crannies for areas where the kitten could get stuck. Seal any gaps with foam or other materials to keep them from crawling into dangerous areas.

10. Check for Small Items That Can Be Swallowed

• Avoid small toys and loose items: Small toys or objects that are easily swallowed, such as small balls, beads, or rubber toys, should be kept out of reach. Always supervise playtime and make sure toys are the right size for the kitten.

11. Monitor Their Playtime

• Supervise kitten play: Always keep an eye on the kitten when they are playing. Although they need stimulation and exercise, they can also be easily distracted by dangerous objects or get into trouble when you're not watching. Be aware of any potential hazards.

12. Kitten-Proofing Your Bed and Furniture

• Hide valuables: Items like jewelry, electronics, and important papers should be kept out of reach. Kittens may also be drawn to things like hair ties, coins, and pens, which could end up being swallowed or chewed on.

13. Use Pet Gates or Crates for Extra Safety

• Baby gates or pet gates: If you want to block off certain areas or rooms, use a pet gate or baby gate to prevent your kitten from wandering into unsafe spaces.

• Crate training: If you're not around to supervise, consider using a crate or playpen to keep your kitten safe while you’re away. This will prevent them from getting into potentially dangerous situations.

By kitten-proofing your home, you’re ensuring a safer environment for your kitten while giving them the freedom to explore and play. This will also provide peace of mind and help prevent accidents or injuries.