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Showing posts from 2018

Gardens, and plant toxicity

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I've not had a toxicity problem from cats eating plants, or things they shouldn't, but that doesn't mean it couldn't happen (potentially Lily picked up her case of giardia from eating something she shouldn't have, but that was unlikely to have been a plant per se - grass with some other animal's poo on it possibly ). So let's discuss toxicity, because sadly your local garden centre won't when you are happily picking out your next purchases. Plants, and Weeds There is a really large list of plants that are potentially toxic to animals.  For the most part, puppies are more likely to suffer than cats, or kittens, because they are more likely to chew on things. However, whenever I see one of these lists I am torn by two competing thoughts.  First, mild panic, as I think how many are in my garden.  Really, it's a poison pit masquerading as a pleasant place to have a cup of tea.  My cats are on borrowed time. Then, fatalism. While it's possib

Breach! Escapes happen

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Even the best commercial containment systems are not 100% secure all the time.  Someone accidentally leaving a gate or window open, wear and tear, or damage after a storm can all provide a means of escape for your cats. For some of the commercial options, you may find yourself dealing with a problem shortly after install that the retailer didn't tell you about. A good installer will come back to solve the problem, but be prepared for this.  A cat that can target the bracket between the anti-climb device, or a gap where the fences meet (or under the fence).  You will need to come up with your own solution as a stop-gap. If you're a DIYer, then you've probably already been through a steep learning curve, and now have the tools to deal with most new issues.  For those who purchased, or built, an enclosure, especially one with a full roof, this may seem like a real blow.  But, just like any fencing, it's always a work in progress. While I'm not suggesting that you