Habits to Practice for a Cat-Safe Home

It's fairly well-accepted that drug users make poor parents. But consider this: a person who is "drugged" on the day-to-day details and stresses of life may become unaware of the potential for harm under his or her own roof. A great journalist, advice columnist, and wonderful lady used to tell her readers, "Wake up and smell the coffee." I'd paraphrase that to "Wake up and smell the catnip."

Make it a habit to know your cat intimately, so that you can recognize immediately when something goes awry. Also make it a habit to be aware of your surroundings; to spot and remove those potential hazards to your cat's well-being. Essentially what you need to do is a daily cat-proofing of your home until it becomes an ingrained habit.

Let your cat be your partner in stress relief by making a habit of setting aside time for interactive play with him each day. Make time for relaxing afterward, with a cup of tea (catnip, perhaps) and a warm, vibrating cat on your lap - your own personal at-home spa. I guarantee that if you look out for him, he will look out for you, and your ultimate reward will be a lifelong relationship with a happy, healthy cat.