Living dangerously

Tilted windows, open lavatories, hot plates; a modern home holds many dangers for kittens. Even simple items such as carrier bags, sewing accessories or cigarettes can pose a real risk, especially for a kitten who’s still comparatively inexperienced. It only takes a few sensible preventative measures, however, to make your house safe for your kitten. Outside is a different matter. You’ll never be able to protect him completely from the risks of climbing tall trees, or the attentions of other cats who may well decide he deserves a good biting or scratch.

Accidents do happen

Of course, you do your best to protect him but accidents can always happen. So be prepared. If the worst occurs, try and keep calm. Your panic will certainly not help your kitten and it could cause him even more harm. First of all you should examine the injury. If he’s swallowed something or if he has large wounds, bruises or burns, you should take him to the vet immediately. If there is serious bleeding, press on the wound with a clean cloth, try and keep him still to keep his heart rate as normal as possible and seek veterinary advice as soon as you can. Burns and scalds should be treated immediately with plenty of cold water followed by urgent veterinary attention.