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| As you enjoy Independence Day, remember to keep your cats and dogs safe this Fourth of July. |
This July 4th, before you offer your cat tidbits from your family barbecue or bring him outside to sit on your lap to watch the local fireworks display, consider the advice of the ASPCA. The animal welfare organization offers tips to keep your cat safe during your holiday celebration.
- Resist the urge to share the experience of watching a fireworks display with your cat. The loud noises can frighten your pet and cause him to bolt—which may result in the animal becoming lost or hurt.
- Because fireworks displays can frighten your cat and make him want to run and hide, make sure your cat has proper identification, such as a collar and tag.
- Keep your cat cool during the heat. Make sure she has plenty of fresh water available, and that your feline friend can stay cool in the house.
- Make sure citronella candles, insect coils and other insect repellents are out of your cat’s reach. These items can be toxic to your cat if ingested.
- Do not use sunscreen or insect repellent on your cat unless it is specifically labeled for use on pets.
- Keep matches and barbecue lighter fluid out of your cat’s reach. Both can be toxic if ingested by your pet.
- Do not leave open alcoholic beverages where your cat can reach them. Alcoholic drinks can be poisonous to pets if ingested.
- Keep your cat on her normal diet. Changes in her food can give her indigestion and diarrhea. In addition, some foods, such as onions, chocolate, avocados, grapes, salt and yeast dough, can be potentially toxic to animals.