Cats are naturally curious animals and love investigating novel objects in their environment, especially those with bright colors and strings. Come Christmas time, there is just about a lot of shiny stuff lying around that cats may fancy to play and tussle with.
However, even Christmas decor can be very dangerous. So, while we enjoy beautiful times with our cats these winter holidays, we must watch out for things that could be dangerous to them.
No cat owner would like the little kitty to end up with a visit to the veterinarian right after a good cat holiday. So, here we have put together some tips that will help you keep your feline family members out of danger this season.
Potential Hazards During the Holidays
Christmas Trees
While this might sound like mere play, your cat could knock over the Christmas tree while playing with it and injure itself in the process. For this reason, Christmas trees, decorations, and ornaments should be well-secured to avoid tipping over and falling.
Also, if your cat loves to chew on plants, you may want to get it some artificial plants. On the other hand, another problem may arise if your cat chews some of the parts of the artificial tree, causing obstruction.
Lights and Cables
To your cat, electrical bulbs and cables might just be another toy to play with. Christmas lights are even more interesting to watch and play with. However, they pose a risk to your cat who might want to chew on these cables.
It could become electrocuted, leading to a bad cat holiday. Therefore, you must hang your Christmas lights out of reach; they shouldn't dangle on the floor.
Ribbons and Garlands
A cat would need much self-discipline to keep away from blingy or glittering ornaments in the house. Strings and ribbons make them crazy, making them very interactive.
However, this may create problems. The reason is that ribbons and garlands can cause linear foreign body obstruction that needs surgical intervention.
It is, therefore, prudent not to have loose tinsels or any string-like ornament and to replace them with safer alternatives.
Toxic Plants
Some plants are dangerous to your cat because they contain chemicals that can poison it. Plants like lilies, holly, poinsettias, and mistletoe are harmful to cats and should not be Christmas tree options.
Likewise, pesticides, fertilizers, and other aspirins may be present in tree water. If your cat drinks this water, it can cause poisoning. For this reason, tree water should be covered in order for your cat not to drink it. For this to take place, you can use aluminum foil to prevent this.
Tips for Cat Comfort and Stress Management
Safe Retreat Space
The loud fireworks will send the little cats running for cover, very anxious.
Also, they would have parties, friends who come over, loud music, and dancing to contend with. All these may be fun for you, but how does your cat really feel in the situation? Our feline friends are sensitive to noise and can easily get stressed out.
You may also want to give your cats a hideaway comfort space. This cat comfort space will not be too expensive in any case to create. A cozy room with soft beds, food, water, and a litter box would be enough.
Other cat holiday safety tips you need to know:
- An extra treat is not bad for a perfect cat holiday, but don't forget to keep them away from toxic food.
- Wear some form of microchip on your cat to ensure you can find it if it takes a surprising walk.
- If you will be away from home for a long while, you can get a cat sitter to check on your cat regularly.
- Avoid leaving open flames without supervision; this includes candle lights. Your cat might burn its whiskers or cause a fire by knocking it over.
In conclusion
While in the festive holidays, we have to be extra cautious not to hurt our furry family members. Cat's safety and comfort are utmost, and it needs to be dealt with carefully.
In our decoration, we must keep cat-friendly materials. Similarly, we need to create a suitable comfort space for our cats where they can go in and rest when they feel stressed.
