Tips for Cats and Christmas Trees

In a previous blog I discussed dogs and Christmas trees so it is only fair that I give you some tips for cats and Christmas Trees.

Tips for Cats and Christmas Trees:

• If you have a kitten, consider getting a table top tree. And if you have a cat that likes to climb your Christmas tree then consider getting a smaller tree. It will be less destructive should your cat knock it over.
• Make sure the water container for your tree is covered. There is a risk of poisoning if you cat drinks the tree water.
• Find a sturdy tree stand. Many cats will try to climb the Christmas tree.
• Try wrapping tin foil around the base trunk of the tree. This will keep your cat from climbing the tree. You can also spray your tree with bitter apple or apple cider vinegar to act as a deterrent.
• Use tin foil as a tree skirt or contact paper with the sticky side up.
• Secure your tree before you decorate it by anchoring it to the wall or ceiling. Do not use tinsel, breakable (glass) ornaments and keep your electrical cords hidden as best as possible. You can spray electrical cords with bitter apple to prevent your pet from chewing on them.
• Fake snow from a can is toxic and should not be used if you have pets or small children.
• Use twine or yarn instead of hooks to hang your ornaments on the tree. Each year many pets are brought into the Vet because they have eaten a hook.
• Never put a cat toy containing cat nip under the tree.
• Pine needles can be toxic to cats, depending on the type of tree. If ingested, pine needles can irritate your cat’s stomach. Be sure to sweep up any pine needles that fall to the floor.
• If you cat just won’t stay away from the Christmas tree try filling a spray bottle with water and keep it close at hand. If you cat approaches the tree give it a quick spritz of water on its back. This should get your point across.

I hope these tips for cats and Christmas trees are helpful. If you are looking for a special gift for your cat check out these safe toys.

All of us at Daily Dog Walkers & Pet Sitters wish you a very Merry Christmas!