Cat-Proofing Your Home: Room-by-Room Safety Checklist

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

Cats are curious, athletic and good at getting into trouble. A cat-proofed home looks very much like a childproofed one, with a few special hazards such as lilies and string. A thorough check before your cat arrives, and a refresh whenever things change, prevents emergencies and saves money.

Start with the big dangers

Lilies. All parts of true lilies and daylilies can cause fatal kidney failure in cats, even in tiny amounts of pollen or vase water. Keep them out of the house entirely. See lilies and cats.

Medications. Human painkillers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen, antidepressants and many others are toxic. Keep them in closed cabinets, and pick up dropped pills immediately.

Antifreeze and chemicals. Even a small amount of antifreeze can be fatal. Store chemicals securely and clean up spills.

Rodent poison. Dangerous directly and through poisoned prey.

Toxic foods. See can cats eat chocolate, onions and garlic, grapes and raisins, xylitol and alcohol.

Living room

• Remove or secure toxic plants. See toxic houseplants for cats, and choose from cat-safe houseplants.
• Tuck away cords or use cord covers, and unplug small appliances.
• Anchor tall bookshelves and TVs, since climbing cats can tip them.
• Cover or secure fireplaces and wood stoves.
• Keep candles out of reach, and never leave them burning unattended.
• Watch recliners and sofa beds, which can trap cats.
• Check for small objects, such as rubber bands, hair ties, dental floss and coins.

Kitchen

• Keep counters free of food, and close trash cans with tight lids.
• Cover or turn off stoves, and keep hot pots out of reach.
• Close oven, dishwasher, washing machine and dryer doors, and check before using them.
• Store cleaning products and chemicals in cabinets with childproof locks.
• Keep string, foil, plastic bags and twist ties away, since swallowing string can cause deadly blockages. See cat vomiting causes.

Bathroom

• Close toilet lids, and keep medicines and toiletries locked up.
• Keep razors, floss and cotton swabs out of reach.
• Do not leave water in the tub or sink unattended.
• Keep the door closed when not in use.

Bedroom and laundry

• Secure closets, and check laundry piles before closing doors.
• Keep jewelry, hair ties and sewing supplies away.
• Check dryers before turning them on.
• Keep essential oil diffusers out of reach or avoid them.

Windows, doors and balconies

Falls from windows, sometimes called high-rise syndrome, injure many cats each year. Use sturdy screens secured in frames, window guards or locks that limit openings to a few inches. Never leave a cat unsupervised on an open balcony without enclosure. Keep exterior doors closed, warn guests and make sure your cat has a microchip and collar with identification.

Strings, ribbons and small objects

Thread, yarn, tinsel, ribbon, dental floss and fishing line can twist through the intestines. If your cat swallows string, do not pull on it. See a vet right away. Store crafts and sewing supplies in closed containers. Pick up toys with strings after play. See the emergency warning signs guide.

Garage and storage

• Store chemicals, antifreeze and paints in locked cabinets.
• Check under car hoods in cold weather, since cats sometimes nap near warm engines.
• Keep tools and small hardware away.

Holidays and guests

• Avoid tinsel and keep ornaments, lights and cords out of reach.
• Keep lilies, poinsettias and holly out of the house, and check any bouquets.
• Keep candy, chocolate and alcohol away, and ask guests not to feed the cat.
• Provide a quiet retreat during parties.

Give your cat safe options

Cat-proofing works best when paired with enrichment, so the cat has better things to do. Provide scratching posts, climbing trees, window perches and toys. See indoor cat enrichment ideas.

Check again when things change

Cat-proofing is not a one-time job. Repeat the walk-through after a move, after buying new furniture or plants, before holidays and whenever you adopt a new pet. Kittens in particular reach places that adult cats ignore, and clever adults learn to open cupboards and doors. Get down to cat height and look for gaps behind appliances, loose cords and anything that can be knocked over. Review the home every few months, and ask visitors to close doors and avoid leaving bags open, since handbags often hold medications, gum with xylitol and other hazards.

Be prepared

Post numbers for your vet, an emergency clinic and an animal poison helpline on the fridge. Keep a carrier ready, and know the route to the nearest clinic. Use our US vet directory to find one.