Spring cleaning safety tips including which products are toxic for cats
March 7, 2024
As the vibrant colours of spring begin to bloom in East Renfrewshire, many pet owners turn their attention to spring cleaning. While decluttering and freshening up your living space can be invigorating, it’s essential to be mindful of potential hazards for our feline friends.
Cats are naturally curious creatures, and as you embark on your spring-cleaning journey, it’s crucial to create a safe environment for your four-legged family members. In this article, we’ll explore some common indoor hazards and learn how to ensure your curious cat stays happy and healthy with tips from the veterinary team at Rouken Glen Vets.
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Cat safety tips for a thorough spring clean
Know which cleaning products are toxic to cats
Spring cleaning often involves an array of cleaning products, many of which can be toxic to cats. Household cleaners, bleach, and disinfectants may contain chemicals that can be harmful if ingested or if they come into contact with your cat’s skin. As a general rule of thumb, any products with a hazard warning on aren’t safe for cats. When using these products, ensure proper ventilation, and keep your feline friend in a separate, well-ventilated area until surfaces are dry. Our vets in Giffnock recommend that cat owners consider using pet-safe cleaning alternatives or thoroughly rinsing and drying surfaces afterwards.
Can you recommend any pet-safe cleaning products? Help other East Renfrewshire cat owners and share them on our Facebook page.
Keep cats safe by windows & balconies
With the arrival of warmer weather in East Renfrewshire and when you’re using chemicals to clean, you’ll probably want to open windows and let the fresh air in. However, open windows and balconies can pose a danger to cats, especially those with a penchant for exploring. Ensure that any external openings aren’t big enough for your cat to get out of, or they are securely screened to prevent accidental falls or escapes. You may want to create a cozy spot in the room you’ll be tackling last to keep them away from cleaning chemicals and smells.
Manage loose cords and string
Spring cleaning often involves reorganising and tidying up, which can lead to the discovery of loose cords and strings. Cats are notorious for playing with anything that dangles, but these items can pose a choking hazard if ingested or they could get tangled in them. Top tips from the team at Rouken Glen Vets are:
- Secure loose cords or tuck them away to prevent your cat from playing with them.
- Provide safe alternatives, such as interactive toys, to keep your cat entertained & engaged.
Check hidden spaces
Cats love to explore nooks and crannies, especially when there’s a change in their environment. During spring cleaning, be mindful of potential hiding spots that may become accessible. Check behind furniture, inside cabinets, and under appliances to ensure your cat can’t access tight spaces where they may get stuck or find hazardous materials.
Beware of springtime flowers & plants that are poisonous to cats
When the spring clean is over, you might want to add a touch of nature to your home with some springtime flowers or plants. Beware though, some plants are toxic to cats. Lilies, daffodils, azaleas, and tulips are just a few examples of plants that can be harmful when ingested. The advice from our veterinary team in Giffnock is that you should research the plants in your home and remove any that pose a risk to your cat. You could just opt for pet-friendly flowers like catnip or spider plants instead to brighten up your space without compromising your cat’s safety.
Why not share your favourite cat-friendly plants & flowers on our Facebook page to help other cat owners in East Renfrewshire?
Spring cleaning is an excellent opportunity to refresh your living space, but it’s essential to prioritise your cat’s safety throughout the process. By being mindful of potential hazards such as toxic cleaning products, open windows, loose cords, hidden spaces and harmful plants, you can create a safe and comfortable environment for your curious feline companion.
In an emergency, call us on 0141 620 2580 right away, or if you have any questions about our article, view all our contact details here.