Bringing a new pet home is exciting — but it also means making your home safe for curious paws, claws, and beaks. From chewing hazards to toxic plants, many everyday items can pose a risk.

Here’s how to pet-proof your home and create a secure, stress-free environment for your furry, feathered, or scaly companions.

1. Secure Electrical Cables

Why it matters: Pets (especially puppies, kittens, and rabbits) love to chew — and exposed wires can be dangerous.

What to do:

  • Use cord protectors or cover cables with PVC tubing.
  • Block access to wires with furniture or cable tidies.

2. Remove or Secure Toxic Plants

Many common houseplants are toxic to pets.

Common culprits: Lilies (deadly to cats), aloe vera, philodendrons, and poinsettias.

What to do:

  • Replace toxic plants with pet-safe alternatives (like spider plants or cat grass).
  • Move unsafe plants out of reach.

3. Keep Food & Chemicals Out of Reach

Dangerous foods: Chocolate, grapes, onions, xylitol (in sugar-free gum).

Other hazards: Cleaning products, antifreeze, and medications.

What to do:

  • Store food and chemicals in sealed cupboards or high shelves.
  • Use childproof latches for particularly curious pets.

4. Make Trash Inaccessible

Bins can be treasure troves for pets — but also dangerous.

What to do:

  • Use lidded bins or keep them behind closed doors.
  • Empty bins regularly, especially food waste.

5. Secure Windows, Doors & Balconies

  • Fit screens or guards on windows.
  • Check that doors and gates close securely.
  • Never leave pets unsupervised on balconies.

6. Watch Out for Small Objects

Hair ties, coins, batteries, and children’s toys are all swallowing hazards.

What to do:

  • Regularly check the floor for small objects.
  • Store small items in drawers or containers.

7. Create a Safe Space for Your Pet

Give your pet a designated area to relax and retreat when they need downtime.

  • A crate or playpen for dogs.
  • A quiet room or cat tree for cats.
  • A secure enclosure for small pets.

Pet-Proofing by Species

  • Dogs: Block off kitchens, use stair gates, and provide plenty of chew toys.
  • Cats: Anchor tall furniture, remove dangling cords, and add scratching posts.
  • Small Animals: Cover cables, ensure enclosures are escape-proof, and provide supervised play areas.
  • Birds: Keep ceiling fans off, close windows and doors, and remove toxic houseplants.

A Safe Home Is a Happy Home

Pet-proofing takes a little time, but it’s worth it for your peace of mind — and your pet’s safety. Once your home is secure, you can focus on what really matters: enjoying life with your new companion.

Want more? Check out our guides on toxic household plants, safe DIY pet toys, and creating pet-friendly living spaces.