It is a very exciting moment when you bring your chosen kitten home. However, kittens are naturally very inquisitive and will actively set about exploring every corner of their new home. You need to prepare for this by removing as many hazards as possible so this curious newcomer can explore in safety.

What to watch out for

• All windows and doors should be shut (even if you plan to eventually let your kitten out, they initially should be kept indoors to adjust to new surroundings and until they are neutered/vaccinated).
• Get covered rubbish bins for your kitchen and bathroom.
• Breakable ornaments should be put away.
• Doors to the oven, fridge, microwave, dishwasher, tumble-dryer and washing machine should always be kept closed. Put notes on the doors to remind people to check inside before using them as small kittens can find a warm dryer a comfortable sleeping place.
• Keep kitchen countertops clear to make them less tempting.
• Store household chemicals, any medications and poisons in a locked cabinet.
• Keep toilet lids down, so your kitten can't fall in or ingest any chemicals in the toilet. You may need to leave a note to remind people about this.
• Hide all trailing electrical cables behind furniture. A thick, cable protector (available from hardware stores) can also be placed over the cables to make them chew-proof.
• Don't leave plastic shopping bags lying around. These are a real hazard.
• Lit candles, burning incense or oil burners are asking for trouble - - extinguish all naked flames and put a guard around any fires. Also keep firelighters out of reach.
• Fit child locks on floor-level kitchen cupboards, especially if there are cleaning materials inside, as kittens can become very adept at opening doors.
• Shorten dangling blind and curtain cords and secure them out of reach.
• Food scraps must always be cleared away promptly. Chicken bones can be very dangerous, as they splinter when chewed; the string that can be found on joints is also irresistible and potentially deadly. Make sure the kitten has no access to bins/bin bags as these are easily raided. Although usually more of a problem with puppies, some kittens can’t resist leftovers!
• ALL houseplants or cut flowers must be out of reach as these are often chewed and some (e.g. lilies) are extremely toxic and shouldn’t be kept in the house or garden at all. See www.fabcats.org/owners/poisons/plants.html for a complete list of toxic plants.
• If a cleaning chemical has been left in the bath, sink or on the kitchen or bathroom floor, the kitten should be kept out of the room.
• Aerosols should never be sprayed near food or water bowls.

Walk around the house ‘thinking kitten’ and try and identify any other hazards before your kitten finds them!