Kitten-proofing your home helps ensure your kitten's safety as well as your own. Kittens are lively and curious, which can lead them into serious trouble unless you take preventative measures. Also, remember that a kitten has lower vantage point than yours  like a baby who has begun to crawl  and may be attracted to things you do not see when you are standing. It¡¯s practically impossible to absolutely kitten-proof your home against all accidents, but for your kitten¡¯s safety here are some suggestions. Secure screens on all windows to help prevent falls, and keep your kitten off balconies, upper porches and high decks. Securely store cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, bleach, paint and paint thinner, pesticides, fertilizer, disinfectants, mothballs, poisons for roaches, ants and rats, medications, and antifreeze (which is very dangerous because kittens are attracted to its sweet taste). Make sure you keep these in tightly closed areas so your kitten cannot gain access. Kittens are clever little creatures and can usually figure out how to open cabinets. Remove poisonous house plants, or place them in hanging baskets that you are sure will be completely out of your kitten¡¯s reach. Some indoor and outdoor plants that are poisonous to cats include amaryllis, English Ivy, narcissus, dieffenbachia (dumb cane), mistletoe, poinsettia, holly, philodendron, azalea, rhododendron, daffodil daphne, foxglove, bleeding heart, potato, iris, ivy, oleander, rubber plant, tobacco, tulip, clematis, morning glory, and weeping fig. Ask your veterinarian for a complete list of dangerous plants. Keep toilet lids down. Kittens may play in the water and the lid could close and trap them; also, toilet bowl cleansers are harmful if swallowed. Store plastic bags where your kitten can¡¯t get inside them and suffocate, or chew or tear them and swallow bits of plastic. Kittens can get tangled in the plastic six pack holders used for packaging beverages. Cut the holders apart to prevent this problem and also to protect wildlife that may accidentally encounter these holders. Keep exposed electrical cords as short as possible, or tack them against a baseboard so your kitten can¡¯t play with them or chew on them. Never give your kitten any medication without first consulting your veterinarian. Among the drugs dangerous to kittens are aspirin and the aspirin substitute acetaminophen, diet pills, sleeping pills and tranquilizers. Make sure these and any other medications labeled ¡°keep out of reach of children¡± are kept out of reach of your kitten as well. For more advice on creating a safe environment for your kitten, read Kitten-Proofing Your Home - part 2. By following these tips, you will help your kitten live a longer, healthier life.