Question
I really want a cat, but the problem is that my hobby is electronics. Half my house is a lab. I don't have dangerous equipment, but I do have tiny pieces. Most of the time are inside boxes, but when I work on a project they're all over the desk (such as resistors, chips and stuff) that could be very easily be eaten by a cat and I'm almost sure that it'll find them VERY interesting to at least play.
What can I do to be able to have a cat? I know that training a cat is a fairly difficult and time consuming process, but I'm willing to do it. The problem is, until then, it may eat something and that would be a serious health hazard (especially if it eats a toxic component, such as a capacitor, which includes very toxic fluids).
I'm willing to make more than enough interesting spots for the cat (shelfs to climb and scratch spots) which I think it'll love. Though most cats can't leave their human alone sometimes...
Also my apartment is fairly small (I live by myself and I'm a uni student), ~ 45 square meters.
Answer
As background, my husband has a similar electronics hobby and I sew. We lived in a house where we did our hobbies in the living room for a few years, but eventually moved into a house large enough that we each have a 'hobby room' and can shut the door to keep the cats out. I honestly believe this is the best long term solution.
While we lived in our small house, we relied on self-discipline, supervision, and training.
Self-Discipline
Basically, if we weren't actively working on a project, all of the dangerous parts had to be put away into containers that the cats couldn't open or swallow.
One way to make this easier (especially if you have things intricately laid out), you can work in the lid of an underbed storage box. When it's time to put things away, put the body of the box on top and hope the cat doesn't knock the whole thing off your table. I'd recommend a box with a locking lid.
Supervision
Make sure that you can easily see all of your dangerous parts at all times so you can shoo away the cat before he starts disturbing stuff.
One method we've used for distraction is to keep a large supply of toys nearby. When the cat starts looking interested in the dangerous stuff, throw a toy into the next room. Catnip mice in bulk are a good option for distraction.
Training
Train your cat to not ever get on your work surface.
First, you need to make sure that you provide other surfaces that meet the same needs (generally, height, interesting toys, and easy interaction with you).
Then, you need some sort of discipline system that is not associated with you. We use ssscat, which uses a motion detector to shoot a puff of air at the cat. People also sometimes use carpet protectors placed nubby side up.
Finally, when you are working if the cat jumps onto your work station, you need to quickly, firmly, and with no emotion, put the cat on the floor. Once the cat is on the floor (or their own nearby surface), then pet the cat or give him a treat. Additionally, when he's nearby (on his own surface or the floor), you should also reward him with treats or affection.
Answered By - Zaralynda