Cats and high-tech machinery don't always make for a safe combination. To allow kitty and computer to exist in harmony, follow these guidelines:

• Buy computer hardware that can bear the weight of your cat or, if you have fragile parts, store them under a shelf or in a cabinet when not in use.
  
  
• Use dust covers when you are not using your equipment.
  
  
• If the system can be turned on by a cat's paw, unplug it when not in use or plug into a power supply that can be turned off.
  
  
• If your computer doubles as a fax machine, configure your computer to send faxes to your hard disk so that you don't have to leave the printer on.
  
  
• Spray cords with cat repellent, secure them to walls or under the desk, or run them through plastic conduits to avoid electrocution.
  
  
• Use books to prop up any cantilevered paper trays that might break under a cat's weight.
  
  
• Make sure CD-ROM trays are closed when not in use.
  
  
• Do not block the cooling vents when making your area safe for your cat.
  
  
• Clean cat hair from your keyboard regularly using canned compressed air.
  
  
• Use a mouse pad with a smooth, washable surface. Clean the mouse ball often.
  
  
• Save your work frequently so that there is no risk of losing or corrupting files if kitty should take a walk on your keyboard. Quit the application or close the window if you will be away from your desk.

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