* Lock things up that could cause harm * Keep washer/dryer door closed at all times * Honk car horn before starting it up * Use fire carefully * Keep all upstairs windows closed or screened * Store string away tidily * Keep floors free of small things * Be constantly aware of what your cat is doing

Curiosity gets most cats in trouble at some point in their lives. As your cat's caregiver, keeping her safe sometimes seems like a "mission impossible." With a little foresight and action, however, you can create a "home, safe home."

When you're trying to provide best home possible for your cat, it pays to think like her. Put on some old clothes and get down on hands and knees and take a look around. Is that shiny crystal vase on shelf a tempting target? Remember that cats will jump onto shelves and tables.

That dangling drapery cord would be fun to leap and grab. What's in this big pot? In case you need help identifying what might catch a cat's eye, here's a list of common household items that are often cause of cat injuries:

* Roach and ant traps * electric and phone cords * cigarettes in ashtrays * open doors and windows * rubber bands * housecleaning chemicals * lit candles * Christmas trees * ornaments * paperclips * rocking chairs * uncovered toilets * trash cans * human medications * chocolate * anti-freeze * unattended boiling pots * electric stove burners * plastic bags.

While dogs tend to get lots of exercise, cats are often left to their own devices, having to find their own ways of exercising if they are kept indoors.

Cats have gone from working animals to creatures of leisure. In past, a cat spent most of its day hunting, keeping homestead free of rodents. Today, most cats are pure companions who spend day waiting for their beloved human to return home. Even if you work from home, it is important to set aside some time to play with your cat. Interacting with you stimulates her physically and mentally, keeping her healthy in body and mind. The time of day you play depends on your schedule and your cat's natural rhythms. Some cats like a leisurely morning, while others are fired up from moment they open their eyes. It may take a while to find time that fits both of you. Once you've found it, however, don't be surprised to see your cat expecting play at that time each day. Cats are creatures of habit, and they feel most secure with a regular schedule.

Play time helps with some behavior problems. A rousing game of chase-the-lure will take edge off of a frisky feline who tends to attack her owner's ankles. A good dose of interaction also fills her need for your undivided attention and may make her less likely to drape herself across you at an inopportune time.