As the holiday season approaches, the thought of putting up Christmas trees fills the air with joy. But for people who have cats that are naughty and curious, this fun tradition can quickly turn into a fight of the wits. Here is a guide to help you keep your pet friends away from the Christmas tree.
Getting to Know How Cats Act
Our cats are naturally playful and interested, which is why they love Christmas trees so much. It's like magnets for them—the lights, trinkets, and branches that hang down make them want to check out every part of the tree. Cats really like the tree because it is tall and narrow, which gives them a great chance to climb and explore vertical areas.
The tree also gives our cat friends a good view from above, from which they might be able to cause trouble. New smells and things come into our homes during the holidays, which makes our cats even more curious and makes them want to explore their holiday surroundings fully. A cat sees a Christmas tree as more than just a decoration; it's an exciting new place to play.
Tips to Keep Cats Away
Here are some good ways to keep cats away from the Christmas tree so that everyone can enjoy the holiday:
Use of Deterrents: If we use sprays with citrus oils and metal foil, our cats won't be able to get close to the tree. Some smells and feels bother cats, and these tips can help us make a barrier they don't want to cross.
Give the Cats Other Ways to Have Fun: Our cat will be less drawn to the tree if we create a separate space for it to play in, complete with toys and games that it can enjoy. You may provide them puzzle feeders or other engaging toys to entice them away from climbing trees.
Secure the Tree: If your cat likes to climb, you know how important it is to keep your Christmas tree safely in place. Accidents and trees falling over can be avoided by using a sturdy tree stand and keeping breakable trinkets out of reach.
Motion-Activated Devices: Investing in motion-activated deterrents or sound-emitting devices can startle cats when they approach the tree. As time goes on, the tree will lose some of its beauty in your cat's eye because they may not want to try again after what happened.
Training Techniques: Positive reward training is the best way to teach cats the rules about the Christmas tree. We can make the tree a no-go area by giving treats or praise for good behavior and gently addressing any bad behavior.
Safe Environment for Cats
It is important to keep our cats away from the Christmas tree, but it is also very important to make sure they have a safe place to be during the holidays. Here are some more things to think about:
Avoid Toxic Decorations: Cats can get sick if they eat some decorations, like tinsel, fake snow, and some ornaments. If you swallow tinsel, for example, it can block your intestines. Cat-safe decorations are the best. Stay away from anything that could be dangerous if your cat decides to check it out or play with it.
Secure Electrical Cords: The lines that come with holiday lights and decorations can be tempting for cats to chew on. Not only is this bad for the cat, but it could also harm the electricity. Keep cords out of sight or protect them with cord covers to keep pets from chewing on them or getting tangled up in them.
Provide a Cat-Friendly Space: Consider setting up a designated cat-friendly area in your home, especially if you're decorating extensively for the holidays. A cat tree or scratching post can offer a safe and entertaining alternative for your cat. It should be placed near a window or in a quiet area so that your cat can watch the party without getting into any trouble.
Supervise Outdoor Access: If your cats go outside, you should be extra careful during the holidays to make sure they don't get hurt in your yard or neighborhood. Cats may be interested in outdoor lights, plants, or ornaments with small parts, which can be dangerous if they eat them or get caught in them. To keep your outdoor space safe and secure this holiday season, take the following steps.
Monitor Food and Treats: During holiday gatherings, be cautious about leaving food or treats within reach of your cat. Some human foods can be toxic to cats, and overindulgence in rich foods can lead to digestive issues. Keep festive treats out of reach and ensure your cat has access to their regular, balanced diet.
That being said,
You need to know how cats act, put up good barriers, and make sure they have a safe place to be to keep them off of Christmas trees. If cat owners follow these tips, they can have a fun and stress-free holiday season with their pets.
For a wide range of cat trees, scratching posts, and other cat accessories, check out Happy & Polly. Explore our collection and create a cozy space for your feline friend this holiday season.
