Top tips to pet proof your home

When getting a new pet it’s important to pet proof your home to ensure that it is the right environment for them. Dogs and cats can be inquisitive and as their owner protecting them from hazards can help maintain their health.

If you pet proof your home it can help to avoid any accidents around the house and help to keep your pet healthy. To maintain your pet’s health, there are positive things you can do to pet proof your home and ensure the environment is free from dangers. These include:

Electrical wires and cords

Make sure that these are tied away and secure to prevent your pet from chewing on them. Tie up any blind cords as your pet could get these caught around their neck.

Houseplants

Many houseplants and flowers are poisonous to pets. Remove them altogether or put them out of reach. Several outdoor plants, like Ivy and Oleander can also be poisonous.

Windows

Be sure to keep an eye on small pets when you have windows open, to prevent them from falling or escaping out of them.

Plastic bags

These could cause your pet to choke or suffocate. Store them in a safe place, where your pet can’t get access to them.

Toilets

Keep any toilet lids closed to stop your pet from drinking the water or even falling in.

Chewing

Provide your dog with plenty of toys for them to chew. This will keep them distracted and prevent them from chewing on furniture or items not meant for them.

Scratch posts

Make sure your cat has plenty of scratch posts to stop them from scratching at furniture around the house.

Secure small spaces

Check your home for any small spaces or gaps where your pet could hide and get stuck. Your pet may try to squeeze into small spaces if they are feeling scared or anxious. Create them a den to retreat to so they don’t hide in other spots out of sight.

Children’s toys

Be sure to pack away any small toys that your pet could chew, swallow or get stuck in their throat.

Make sure your garden is secure

If you get a new dog, make sure that you have secured all escape routes in your garden. Small pet’s can squeeze through the smallest of gaps so be sure to check everywhere.

Foods

Keep any food not meant for your pet out of reach. Some human foods can be toxic to dogs and cats, such as chocolate and can leave your pet with a bad tummy. Be sure to keep some Nutrabio to hand for instances such as this.

Stair gates

These can be used to help pet proof your home and placed around the house to prevent your pet from getting into rooms they are not allowed in or up the stairs.

Dryers and washing machines

Cats and puppies can climb into washing machines and dryers. Be sure to keep doors closed at all times and check the machines before using them.

Household cleaners

Cleaning fluids and antifreeze can be potential dangers to your pet. Make sure these are all kept away from your pet and stored out of reach.

Rubbish bins

Some dogs can rummage in bins looking for scraps when home alone. Be sure to keep bin lids closed and secure to prevent your dog from getting a sensitive tummy from leftover food.

Dog cages

These could be used for your dog to keep them safe when you are out of the house. They may use this as their den and if introduced from a young age will be happy to stay there when home alone.

To help maintain the health of your pet, consult your vet, who is best placed to monitor your pet’s health and ensure they are receiving the right care.