Cats are naturally curious and love to explore every corner of your home. While this curiosity can be cute, it can get them into trouble. Many everyday items that seem harmless to us can actually be dangerous for cats, from plants and foods to cleaning products and small objects.
As a cat owner, it’s important to know about these dangers to keep your furry friend safe. In this article, I’ll share 10 common household items that are surprisingly dangerous for cats, along with tips to help you create a safer environment for your feline friend.
Contents
1. Plants and Flowers
Cats may chew on plants out of curiosity. Sadly, some of the most common plants and flowers can be harmful to them.
For example, lilies are especially dangerous and can cause organ failure, even in a small amount. Other poisonous plants include poinsettias, philodendrons, aloe vera, and tulips.
In all cases, it’s best to keep toxic plants out of your home or out of reach. To be safe, opt for cat-friendly plants like spider plants or Boston ferns.
Tip: Check with a reliable resource to confirm if a plant is safe for pets before bringing it home.
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2. Human Medications
By nature, cats are especially sensitive because their bodies can’t process these drugs like humans.
Pain medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil), and common antidepressants can have an extremely toxic effect on cats. The smallest doses can cause serious health problems, such as organ damage, seizures, or death.
Tip: Store medications out of reach in a secure place. If your cat accidentally ingests any medication, contact your veterinarian or an emergency pet poison helpline immediately.
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3. Cleaning Products
Many household cleaners, like bleach, ammonia, drain cleaners, and disinfectants, contain chemicals that can harm cats. Ingestion or contact with these substances can cause chemical burns, accidental poisoning, or breathing problems.
Even residue left on surfaces can be dangerous if your cat licks their paws. That’s why you need to keep your little fluffy pets away while actively cleaning.
Tip: Use pet-safe cleaning products whenever possible, and store all cleaners securely. After cleaning, ensure surfaces are fully dry and free of residue before allowing your cat near them.
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4. Essential Oils
Essential oils like eucalyptus, peppermint, tea tree, and citrus are toxic to cats. That’s because their bodies lack the enzymes needed to break down these substances.
Not only that, but even inhaling diffused oils can cause respiratory distress, drooling, or lethargy. So, avoid using essential oils around your cat in any way, especially in diffusers. However, if you must, ensure your cat is in a separate, well-ventilated area.
Tip: If you’re a fan of essential oils or use them a lot, make sure to store them securely to prevent accidental spills or ingestion.
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5. Cords and Strings
Cats love to play with cords, strings, and similar items, but these can be dangerous. If chewed on, these electrical cords can lead to electrocution. At the same time, swallowing string, yarn, or ribbons can cause serious intestinal blockages or damage.
As an alternative, provide safe toys for your cats to play with to satisfy their hunting instincts.
Tip: Keep cords tucked away or covered with protective tubing, and store strings in secure places.
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6. Human Foods
Many types of foods safe for humans to consume can be toxic to cats. Chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, macadamia nuts, raisins, and foods containing xylitol (like sugar-free gum) can cause severe health issues. This may include vomiting, acute kidney failure, or even death.
On top of that, alcohol and caffeinated beverages can also be extremely dangerous for your fluffy friend. As such, never share your food with your cat without checking if it’s safe for them.
Tip: Keep harmful foods out of reach, and clean up spills quickly to prevent accidental ingestion. If your cat eats something questionable, contact your vet immediately.
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7. Plastic Bags and Packaging
Plastic bags, chip bags, and other packaging materials can pose serious risks to cats. Playing around with them, a cat might get trapped inside and suffocate. Similarly, ingesting bits of plastic may cause choking or intestinal blockages.
So, if you have to have plastic bags and packaging material in your house, make sure to store them safely out of reach. Additionally, avoid leaving your cat unsupervised around these materials to prevent unfortunate accidents.
Tip: Cut or tie up bags before disposing of them to prevent curious cats from playing with or chewing on them.
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8. Candles and Open Flames
Cats’ curiosity can lead them dangerously close to candles, fireplaces, or stove burners. They might accidentally knock over a candle or get too close, risking burns or even starting a fire.
That said, it doesn’t mean you can’t use candles; you just shouldn’t leave candles or open flames unattended, especially in a room where your cat can access them.
Tip: Consider using flameless candles for a safer alternative, and always supervise your cat around fireplaces or stoves.
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9. Small Objects
Common items like coins, paper clips, hair ties, and buttons might seem harmless, but they can pose serious risks to cats. If swallowed, they can cause choking or dangerous intestinal blockages that may require emergency surgery.
Overall, you should keep small objects stored in drawers or containers that your cat can’t access.
Tip: Regularly check the floor for any dropped items, especially in areas where your cat likes to play or explore. Providing safe toys can also be a fantastic way to redirect their curiosity.
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10. Pesticides and Rodenticides
Pesticides, ant traps, and rat poisons are highly toxic to cats. Ingesting even a small amount can cause severe poisoning, leading to symptoms like vomiting, seizures, or liver failure. Cats can also be exposed to such dangers by eating prey that has ingested poison.
In all cases, you need to avoid using these products in areas where your cat can access them.
Tip: If you must, opt for pet-safe alternatives or consult your veterinarian for safe pest control options.
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Final Words
Our homes may seem like a safe haven. Yet, as this complete list of 10 common household items that are surprisingly dangerous for cats shows, everyday items can pose hidden risks to your furry friend.
By securing hazardous items, using pet-safe alternatives, and staying informed, you can create a safe environment where your cat can thrive. Finally, remember that a little extra care goes a long way in keeping your curious companion healthy!
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10 Things Your Cat Will Never Forgive
Cats have a great memory, especially when remembering bad experiences. While still up for debate, most experts believe felines can retain memories for 15 to 20 years!
This practical capability helps them in the wild and allows them to form long-term bonds, recall useful information, and (yes) even hold grudges.
In short, if you’re a first-time fur mom or dad, it’s crucial to remain on their good side, lest you incur the feline’s wrath!
So, here are 10 things your cat will never forgive and you should never do. Some of these are seemingly harmless mistakes, yet have a lasting impact on your cat’s well-being and your relationship.
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10 Myths About Cats You Should Stop Believing
As a long-time cat owner, I’ve found that many of my friends often have misconceptions about cats. Unfortunately, new cat parents may encounter problems because of misinformation on the internet.
Today, we’ll discuss ten myths about cats that you should stop believing. You’ll be surprised by just how much you didn’t know about your feline companion!
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10 Everyday Things That Hurt Your Cat’s Feelings
Think your cat’s upset? Well, it probably is!
Cats can get annoyed, bored, freaked out, or totally zen. Believe it or not, they can also feel hurt. Yep, our feline friends are more sensitive than we realize.
So, here are 10 everyday things that hurt your cat’s feelings, so you’ll know how to avoid them.
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Amanda created and owns The Discerning Cat. A lifelong cat lover she is the proud parent of two Siberian cats, Alexei and Vladimir. She is passionate about understanding cats and different cat breeds.