5 easy tips to pet-proof your home
- Pet Waggin' Pet Care
- 16 hours ago
- 3 min read
Our pets are adorable, but just like some human family members, they don’t always have the best judgment (ha).
A dangling cord? Clearly a chew toy. A snack left out on the counter? Don’t mind if they do! A plant? Obviously worth investigating (and chewing on).
Pet-proofing your home means anticipating what your pet might find irresistible and creating a safer environment for them and less stress for you. A few simple changes can prevent accidents and help keep your home a safe space.
Whether you’re adopting a new furry friend or just giving your space a once-over for your current pets, here are some tips to pet-proof your home:
Start at floor level.
Get down on your hands and knees and look around from your pet’s perspective. You may spot hazards you normally overlook: coins, batteries, rubber bands, small toys, loose screws or other objects that could be swallowed. The American Veterinary Medical Association warns that small household objects can cause digestive tract injuries or blockages if swallowed.
Put tempting items away, secure trash cans with lids and make sure anything potentially dangerous is stored well beyond paws’ reach.
Tackle cords and cables.
Electrical cords can be particularly appealing to curious pets. Chewing through a live cord can result in burns or electrocution.
Use cord covers, cable management systems or furniture to block access where possible. Don’t forget window-blind cords and other dangling strings, which can also pose risks!
Lock up the dangerous stuff.
Cleaning products, medications, pesticides and home-improvement supplies should all be stored in securely closed cabinets. Childproof latches can provide an extra layer of protection for especially determined pets. (Our marketing gal even had to Velcro her fridge door closed to keep her kitties from opening it and eating food they weren’t supposed to!)
According to the ASPCA, over-the-counter medications and supplements were the leading category of pet toxin exposures reported to its Poison Control Center in 2025.
And remember: “pet medication” doesn't automatically mean “pet-safe in unlimited quantities.” Flavored chews can be especially tempting, so keep them secured just like human medications.
Give your plants a once-over.
That beautiful houseplant might be harmless… or it might be dangerous to your four-legged friend. Before bringing a new plant indoors or adding one to your garden, check whether it is toxic to your pet’s species.
The ASPCA recommends researching plants before introducing them into a pet’s environment, since dogs and cats may investigate them with their mouths. They’ve compiled a list of toxic and non-toxic plants for easy reference.
Don’t forget the kitchen and garage.
Keep potentially harmful foods, like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic and products containing xylitol, away from your pets. Secure garbage, too; food scraps and packaging can create their own hazards.
In the garage, store antifreeze, fertilizers, pesticides, paint and other chemicals securely. Even a small spill can become a serious problem for a too-curious pet!
When thinking about pet-proofing your home, it essentially comes down to thinking like your pet.
Additionally, pet-proofing isn’t a one-and-done project. As animals grow, they can reach new places or discover new interests, which could spell trouble in the future. You should continue to do quick sweeps every few months, or when there is a big or significant event in your home (welcoming a new pet, starting renovations, etc.).
A few minutes of prevention can go a long way toward keeping your companion safe and free to focus on the important things, like naps and snacks!
Looking for more ways to keep your pet happy? Explore our Long Beach pet care services and learn how our team of pet professionals can support you and your furry BFF.
