How To Cat Proof Your Christmas Tree

November 13, 2019

 

Whether you decide to put up a real fir tree or an imitation one this Christmas, there are a few things you’ll need to nail down to keep your cat safe.

 

It’s true that a real Christmas tree will drive your cat into bouts of wild abandon, but sometimes only the piney scent of real spruce will put you in the spirit of the season. 

 

So here are a few tips to keep your cat and your tree safe:

 

  1. Give your cat plenty of time to get used to the new intruder in the house before you decorate it.
  2. While your cat is getting used to the tree, take this opportunity to spritz it down with some kitty repellent. 
  3. Kitty repellent will help deter your cat from chewing the branches, and worst of all, chomping down on some pine needles. These contain toxins that could make your cat very sick, requiring a hospital visit.
  4. After a few days when your cat has lost interest in your tree, choose a secure spot where your Christmas tree won’t be disturbed, preferably a room with a door to keep kitty away when you’re not at home.
  5. Next, secure your Christmas tree with a sturdy planter stand and fasten it by strong string to the ceiling or a supporting wall. 
  6. Give your tree plenty of water to minimize the number of needles it will lose in a day. In addition, cover the water so your cat cannot drink it. Pesticides and other toxins can leech out of the tree into the water, making it poisonous for your cat.
  7. Avoid using tinsel, garlands, or ribbon on your tree as these can prove fatal if your cat happens to eat them. And they won’t be able to resist.
  8. Tape down any cords from Christmas tree lights or use a plastic conduit to prevent your cat from playing with them, tripping over them, or worse, chewing them.
  9. Keep the bottom of your tree free of baubles and delicate ornaments. Save these for the top of the tree.
  10. Better yet, place a Scat Mat in front of your tree to deter your cat from entering the tree zone! When your cat steps onto the Scat Mat it will give off a small static charge, much like the little zap you get in the wintertime from the carpet.

 

You might decide at this point that an artificial tree is the way to go. True, they are safer as far as needles, climbing, and toxins, but with an imitation tree you’ll still have to watch your delicate decorations, fasten it down, and keep it in a safe place away from your cat. Follow these tips and your cat and your tree will get through the Holidays unscathed.

 

Photo credit:   Tunde Pecsvari