Cat-Safe Kitchen: What to Keep Off the Counter

The kitchen is the busiest room in most homes — and a hotspot for cat toxins. Here is how to build a cat-safe kitchen and keep dangerous foods off the counter.

Foods to keep off the counter

• Garlic, onions, and seasoned leftovers
• Chocolate, baked goods, and sweets
• Grapes, raisins, and sultanas
• Coffee grounds and tea bags
• Alcohol and cocktail glasses
• Raw bread dough and rising dough

Non-food kitchen hazards

Hot pans, sharp knives, and dangling cords are injury risks. Cleaning sprays left on counters, dishwasher tablets, and plastic wrap also attract curious cats. See cleaning products toxic to cats for chemical risks.

Counter-surfing prevention

• Never leave food unattended on counters
• Store scraps in sealed bins
• Keep knives and hot items pushed back from edges
• Provide elevated cat trees away from the kitchen