How To Cat-Proof Your Christmas Tree | Chewtorials

Tired of your cat knocking ornaments off your tree (or worse?) Follow these expert tips for cat-proofing your Christmas tree.

Consider a Safer Tree

Both artificial trees and real trees are a potential hazard to your curious cat, but some trees are technically considered safer than others.

Real Christmas trees—including popular firs and pines—are considered mildly toxic to cats when chewed or ingested. Further, tree farms sometimes use harmful pesticides on the branches. Fake trees are not as dangerous in this way, but be aware that pieces can still break off, and create a digestive blockage or choking hazard. Smaller Christmas trees are also considered less dangerous since they’re not as heavy if they topple over.

Location Matters

Place your Christmas tree away from anything your cat already likes to climb or perch on, such as cat trees, tall scratching posts, counters, furniture, and bookshelves. These are launch zones that allow your cat to easily jump onto your tree.

If possible, keep your cat out of the room by closing the door or using a pet gate. You can also use cat deterrents to minimize your cat’s interest in the tree altogether.

Be Smart About Decorating

Anything new and shiny in your home is likely to attract your cat’s eye. But if you follow these three decorating tips, your tree might not be as interesting to your furry friend.

First, wait a few days before adding decorations to your tree. A Christmas tree’s greatest appeal is often when it first arrives in the home. Give your furry friend time to acclimate to its presence before adding ornaments, lights or other shiny baubles.

Secondly, keep dangerous items out of reach. Climbing isn’t the only Christmas tree hazard tempting curious kitties. Don't use the following items to decorate your tree:

Glass ornaments
Metal ornament hooks
Tiny Christmas decorations that are easily swallowed
Fake snow (flocking), which is toxic to cats
Tinsel
Long ribbons

Instead, use cat-safe decorations. When dressing your tree, use decorations that won’t pose a threat to your sweet feline. Keep fragile ornaments at the tippy-top, and opt for plush ornaments on the lower branches. Instead of tinsel, use paper bows, thick cloth ribbons, or garlands made with large beads or plush materials. Anything that’s soft and won’t create a choking hazard is fair game.

Finally, give your cat an appealing tree alternative. Now’s also a great time to introduce a new toy to the mix to hopefully detract their attention from your Christmas tree.

Take Advantage of Cat Deterrents

A number of remedies can separate cats from Christmas trees, including sprays with odors cats find unpleasant, Coll says. TropiClean Chew Deterrent, for example, is designed to train cats and dogs to stay away from places they’re not allowed, like on top of the sofa, near a poisonous plant and, yes, under the Christmas tree: https://www.chewy.com/tropiclean-stay...

Cover Electric Cords

Also keep electrical cords out of reach.Chewing a live wire can be dangerous for your favorite feline. Cover cords with a tree skirt or cord protector.

Block Off the Tree Water

Cats enjoy a refreshing drink of water just like anyone else, but that’s a problem if the water’s coming from the basin beneath your Christmas tree. Some of the chemicals and fertilizers added to it to help the tree stay green can be toxic to pets.

Luckily, there are several ways to prevent your cat from drinking the tree water. Place a cover over the base, or use tin foil or a tree skirt to prevent a cat from getting into the water.

Remove Tempting Presents

Your cat’s got a mighty fine sense of smell, so any Christmas present filled with food, treats or catnip suddenly becomes a fun puzzle for your feline. Keep these items out of reach until Christmas morning, then put them under the tree just in time for your family to joyfully open.



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