Just Hangin’ Around? Unlock the Mystery of Holiday Cat Safety
You could say that cats love Christmas, but it may be more accurate to say their “love” is really more of an obsession with Christmas trees. As far as your cat is concerned, the installation of an evergreen tree (whether natural or artificial) is a clear invitation to inspect, chew, jump, climb, and possibly take down and destroy with one pounce. This begs the question: what are your plans to deter your cat from being on or around the tree? With our holiday cat safety tips, you won’t have to scratch your head for long.
But First, These Reminders…
We understand that you want to protect your tree and your frisky feline. Simply keeping your tree upright during the holidays is an accomplishment in and of itself. However, keeping your cat safe is easier (or at least more manageable) when you have a firm grip on the major components of holiday pet safety.
The Tree in All its Glory
To your cat, your Christmas tree is tantalizing and bewitching. Unfortunately, all the blinking and twinkling ornaments, tinsel, and lights pose significant hazards to your pet’s health. It’s best to keep electrical cords out of reach, and never display edible ornaments or items that can result in poisoning or gastrointestinal blockages.
Holiday Cat Safety
Your cat may be drawn to your tree’s water supply. We recommend covering the tree stand as much as possible to discourage curious lapping. When it comes to commercial trees, a surprisingly dangerous cocktail of preservatives can leach into the water. Also, fallen pine needles do not digest, making an artificial tree a safer choice.
Similarly, any dangling or moving items attached to the tree can be too much of a temptation to resist (e.g., light and motion ornaments). An initial approach to keeping your cat out of the Christmas tree is to either decorate it sparingly or only on the top half. It’s best to only place ornaments on the tree that are:
- Unbreakable
- Unremarkable to a cat
- Inedible
- Of little sentimental value
- Inexpensive
And Then…
To truly abide by the tenets of holiday cat safety, you’ll have to discourage your cat from climbing the tree. Not only could this ruin your tree and break cherished ornaments, your cat could suffer a serious injury. To minimize this risk, try attaching balloons to your tree. After accidentally popping one in hot pursuit, your cat will likely not make the same mistake again.
You might also consider:
- Investing in a very heavy tree stand or base (like wrought iron) and anchoring your tree to the wall or ceiling (just in case!).
- Wrapping your trunk in tin foil. Your cat will not like digging into this and may get the message.
- Placing a felted wool or fleece blanket directly beneath the tree to entice your cat to snooze there.
- Have a dog? If your cat won’t settle down for a nap beneath the tree, encourage your canine to enjoy the area around the tree. Your cat might automatically take off in the opposite direction.
- Making a Christmas Present Cat Tree, like Cole and Marmalade’s owners. This proves to be an excellent opportunity for Christmas adventure and exploration – and looks highly entertaining for people to watch, as well.
If you need additional assistance with holiday cat safety, please give us a call. From all of us at Leon Valley Veterinary Hospital, we wish you and your cat a very happy holiday!