Cats rely on their sense of smell and hearing more so than their eyesight. They cannot be fooled by a mirror. They see their reflection, but their sense of smell and hearing tells them there is no cat there. Cats go places that we wouldnt think of going because their noses tell them these are nice places. Cats have been locked in refrigerators, clothes driers, and washing machines with bad results due to their curiosity and their sense of smell.

Many cleaning products are deadly to cats, such as Lysol and most dishwashing fluids. Room deodorizers sprays settle to the floor, and cats are constantly licking to clean their paws especially if they smell something disagreeable on them. Antifreeze is deadly for cats and dogs and should be cleaned up to washed away if a spill or leak occurs. Any product containing phenol is particularly deadly. The fumes from moth balls can destroy a cats liver cells. Always use cedar in place of moth balls when cats are present.

Plant poisoning is common especially around Christmas with poinsettias and mistletoe at the top of the list. Here is a list of the other toxic plants; dieffenbachia, azaleas, philodendron, ivy, chrysanthemums, rhubarb leaves, iris leaves, daffodil, jonquil, narcissus, poison ivy, privet, oak, mushrooms, oleander, sumac, sweet pea, rosary pea and even uncooked potatoes. Equally dangerous is the water in the Christmas tree stand, the pine smell may invite your cats to drink, but if they do, it could become lethal.

Choking is always a problem, cats tongues do not allow anything to be spit out. Once they start to swallow a string, yarn, or rubber bands, they only swallow more. Some cellophane wraps become sharp and glasslike when they come in contact with the digestive juices of a cats stomach. Many cat toys are dangerous because they have decorations glued on them that can be swallowed when they come off. Do not allow your cat to play with anything that could be swallowed.