Making your home safe

Windows and balconies

Cats can fall from open windows and balconies, even from low floors. Fit secure screens or restrictors, and never rely on a cat's balance.

Plants and flowers

All parts of lilies, including pollen and the water in the vase, can cause fatal kidney failure in cats. Keep lilies out of any home with a cat. Check other houseplants before bringing them in.

Small and stringy things

• Put away string, ribbon, hair ties, dental floss and sewing thread: swallowed string can cause serious gut injuries
• Tidy away or cover electric cables
• Keep the toilet lid, washing machine and tumble dryer doors closed

Medicines and chemicals

Never give a cat human medicine. Paracetamol is highly toxic to cats, and so are some dog flea treatments containing permethrin. Store medicines, cleaning products and antifreeze out of reach.