What Are the Dangers of House Cats?

Although a popular pet for many, house cats do come with their own set of problems and dangers for some people. Dealing with these issues can be frustrating for many pet owners. All problems and dangers should be considered before you get a house cat.

  1. Claws and Property Damage

    • House cats, especially those that venture outside, are not always declawed. The risks of having a cat keep its claws include potential damage to furniture, carpets, drapery and other objects, as well as the risk of scratches to people. Cats with claws need to keep them sharp, and unless they are trained to use a scratching post, they will use walls, couches and other objects. Declawing a cat can help avert damage and injury from claws.

    Allergies

    • Many people are highly allergic to the dander cats produce. Symptoms can include a runny nose, sore throat, headache, cough or even anaphylaxis (shock) in very serious cases. People with allergies should be aware of this before purchasing a cat. Additionally, guests with pet allergies can be susceptible to a reaction to cats. Medication is available to reduce allergic reactions. There also are cats that are less likely to cause an allergic reaction (hypoallergenic) which can reduce the risk of reactions.

    Spraying

    • Cats spray to mark their territory. Spraying is particularly common in males, and this behavior is not always curbed by having the cat neutered. Spraying occurs when a cat backs up to an object, such as a door, a dresser or a couch, and urinates on it. The stains and smell of cat urine can be difficult to remove. The mess from a litter box should also be taken into consideration before getting a cat.