A: Kittens and cats love playing with yarn, as well as string, ribbon and anything that twists and dances. They like to stalk, to pounce, to flip their slender prey in the air, and to start stalking again. That’s all good clean fun, but there’s always a chance that your cat will decide to eat his plaything. And that’s where the fun stops, because these “toys” can cause havoc in your cat’s intestines, causing a problem that may need to be surgically treated. If you knit or sew, put your supplies securely away when you’re done with them, and if you’re opening or wrapping packages, clean up after you’re finished. Packing material such as foam peanuts also can be a health hazard. Tuck all electrical cords out of the way. If you notice some that you can’t hide are attracting kitty teeth, coat them in something nasty, such as Bitter Apple (available at pet-supply stores), to convince your cat or kitten to chomp elsewhere. For the cat who loves to chase things, get a “cat fishing pole” and play with her. When you’re done playing, though, put the toy where she can’t get it.

– Dr. Marty Becker

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