Cats are drawn to small objects, cables, and packaging more than most owners expect, often more than commercial toys. This category covers small objects, cables and electronics, and packaging materials, rating the risk of choking, strangulation, or internal injury for each. Many of these items sit around every home without a second thought, which is exactly why they cause a disproportionate number of emergency vet visits. Check here before leaving something new within reach of a curious cat.
Cables & Electronics
🔴 HIGH
Batteries (Alkaline and Button Cell)
🔴 HIGH
Electrical Cables
🟢 LOW
Laptops and Computer Keyboards
🟡 MEDIUM
Silicone Earphone Tips and Wireless Earbuds
Chemicals
🔴 HIGH
Antifreeze (Ethylene Glycol)
🔴 HIGH
Mothballs (Naphthalene)
🟡 MEDIUM
Nail Polish Remover (Acetone)
🔴 HIGH
Rat Poison (Anticoagulant Rodenticides)
Medications
🔴 HIGH
Acetaminophen (Paracetamol)
🔴 HIGH
ADHD Medications (Adderall, Ritalin / methylphenidate)
🔴 HIGH
Aspirin
🟡 MEDIUM
Birth Control Pills (Estrogen)
🔴 HIGH
Ibuprofen
🟡 MEDIUM
Melatonin
🔴 HIGH
Naproxen / Other NSAIDs
🔴 HIGH
Sertraline / SSRIs (Zoloft, Prozac, etc.)
Packaging Materials
Small Objects
🟡 MEDIUM
Balloons
🔴 HIGH
Blind & Curtain Cords
🟡 MEDIUM
Bottle Caps (metal and plastic)
🔴 HIGH
Christmas Tinsel
🔴 HIGH
Coins (Zinc Toxicity)
🟡 MEDIUM
Cotton Swabs (Q-tips)
🟢 LOW
Crumpled Paper Balls
🟡 MEDIUM
Dental Floss
🟡 MEDIUM
Hair Ties and Elastic Hair Bands
🟡 MEDIUM
Rubber Bands
🟢 LOW
Silica Gel Packets