How To Cat Proof A Christmas Tree

11 Simple Ways to Cat-Proof Your Christmas Tree

It is not intended to be a substitute for expert veterinary assistance.

Every year, it’s the same story: the homeowner brings home a Christmas tree, decorates the tree, and then takes a step back to enjoy the tree only to watch the family cat topple it over and knock off the dazzling ball ornaments, and/or become helplessly entangled in string lights. This year, don’t put yourself (or your cat) in danger by failing to learn the 11 tips and tactics for cat-proofing your Christmas tree that are listed below.

Potential Christmas tree hazards for cats

There are a few seasonal risks that might cause injury to your cat, but you don’t have to stress yourself out about them like you would with a real Christmas tree. Keep in mind the following potential hazards:

While you don’t have to go insane thinking about the dangers posed by Christmas trees, there are a few concerns that might cause injury to your cat throughout the holiday season. Keep in mind the following hazards when you are driving:

While you don’t have to go insane thinking about the dangers posed by Christmas trees, there are a few seasonal hazards that have the potential to hurt your feline companion. Keep the following hazards in mind:

1. Proceed slowly

The majority of cats are resistant to any changes made to their routine or surrounding environment. And when a tall pine tree adorned with glistening ornaments unexpectedly appears in your home, it’s a significant adjustment for your cat to acclimatize to. PETA recommends that you leave your tree unadorned for the first several days before placing that bag full of decorations on top of its branches. Allow your cat to acquire accustomed to this new thing at her own time, rather than forcing her to do so.

2. Make sure things are secure

Avoid using the sharp metal hangers that have traditionally been used to hang ornaments because they might damage interested cats. Instead, use wire or rope to secure decorations to branches as securely as possible to prevent your cat from batting them away. Check to see that your tree’s base is strong enough to keep the tree in its position. You could even want to think about tying your tree to a wall or ceiling with a fishing line in order to reduce the likelihood of it falling.

3. Hang decorations up high

Keep antique decorations out of reach of your cat by putting them somewhere safe. Low-hanging ornaments should be avoided since they may be too enticing for your curious kitten to eat. If you want to function as a warning system, you may try hanging some bells around the lower branches. If you hear the bells jingling, you may need to step in and help the situation. And while we’re on the subject of Christmas tree decorations, here’s some advice: avoid using tinsel. If consumed, it has the potential to cause severe intestinal damage.

4. Be cautious with lights

Keep your cat from chewing on the wiring of your Christmas tree by stringing strings of lights near to the center of the tree. If your cat is chewing on a wire, you may use a wire protector to prevent it from doing so. Always remember to disconnect the lights when you’re not in the room.

5. Harness the power of distraction

Playful (and less damaging) solutions to keep your cat entertained are available.

Set up a play area in your home with some new toys to keep your cat interested in anything other than the glistening decorations on your Christmas tree throughout the holiday season.

6. Restrict access

If at all possible, keep your cat out of the room where the tree is when you’re not home to avoid any accidents. See also some of these ingeniousChristmas tree pet-proofing solutions for more inspiration.

7. Catnip-free zone

Maintain control of your cat’s access to the room with the tree whenever you are absent from the house if at all possible. See also some of these creative Christmas tree pet-proofing solutions for further inspiration.

8. Go artificial

Real trees, to be sure, have a certain allure. They’re also a sloppy bunch of slobs. Fallen pine needles may pierce paws and represent a major threat to inquisitive chewers that are drawn to them. This hazard will be mitigated by the use of an artificial tree. A second point to consider is to get a little tree. If, despite your best attempts, an unlucky accident does occur, a smaller tree will do less harm than a larger one, therefore choose a smaller tree.

9. Cover the base

If you decide to use a real tree, be sure to cover the water-filled base with a tree skirt or blanket to prevent your cat from drinking it. This water may contain hazardous bacteria that might make your cat ill if it is consumed.

10. Place your tree in a corner

Ensure that your tree is not too close to any furniture that your cat may use to get into the branches. Instead, find a secluded area to make climbing more challenging.

11. Use deterrents

Ensure that your tree is not too close to any furniture that your cat may use to leap into the branches. Decide instead on a corner that will make climbing more difficult.

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How to Cat-Proof Your Christmas Tree

Are you interested in learning how to cat-proof your Christmas tree? Here are some excellent suggestions for keeping your kitten (as well as your gorgeous Christmas decorations!) safe this holiday season. Consider the implications of this. From your cat’s point of view, a Christmas tree may be the nicest gift that he or she has ever received. Jumping! Climbing! Taking ornaments by the paws! So, save for the old, infirm, or obese, it’s simply unrealistic to believe that your cat would refrain from scampering up the tree and messing with with the ornaments and other holiday decorations.

Christmas tree with cat in front of it Image courtesy of Daniel Lacatus / EyeEm / Getty Images

What Kind of Christmas Tree Should You Buy?

Live Christmas trees: Choose a Christmas tree with malleable needles that are pet-friendly, such as a Douglas fir or white pine, for example. Their needles will not become lodged in your cat’s paws. In addition, some cats like ingesting stray needles, which can result in choking and significant stomach trouble. Make sure to keep your vacuum close by while the tree is up in order to keep the floor free of debris. Artificial trees include: Fortunately, synthetic trees won’t dry up and shed needles (or at least not as many!) and their branches will be less enticing for your feline companion to chew on than real trees will be.

Furthermore, keep in mind that you’ll still need to cat-proof an artificial tree since, when it comes to kitty finding a high place to perch, fake is just as excellent as genuine.

When it reaches the ground, a shorter, lighter specimen is less likely to injure or damage your cat or other things in its path (or the coffee table). You’ll also save time by not having to clean up after yourself if something goes wrong.

Cat-Proofing Your Christmas Tree Stand

Make use of a sturdy tree foundation that has enough mass to keep the tree standing straight. Use fishing line to secure the tree to the ceiling or wall, allowing the base to do its work better (a.k.a. monofilament). And keep in mind that, aside from fresh water, there is nothing you can put in the tree stand to extend the life of a freshly cut Christmas tree. Consequently, avoid “useful” additions such as chicken soup, dog urine (yuck! ), or bleach (apparently, some individuals have tried adding these disgusting substances to their tree water in an attempt to lengthen the life of their tree).

These chemicals will make drinking water that is stagnant and contaminated with germs even more harmful for your kitty pet.

A few cat owners go so far as to cover the tree skirt with gifts in order to further conceal the enticing bucket of water.

How to Protect Your Cat and Your Christmas Tree Decorations

If your cat decides to use those dangling ornaments as a cat play, or even worse, climb the tree’s branches for a better look, both your decorations and his safety may be jeopardized. Protect the base of the tree by erecting a barrier around it. You might use lattice fencing, a Christmas tree gate, or even furniture to keep your curious kitten on the ground. And, just in case your cat is a jumper, keep fragile antique or glass decorations and tree toppers out of reach of him. The fireplace mantle, bookcase shelves, or within a locked, secure cabinet with glass doors are all good options for displaying them in a more secure environment.

When it comes to decorating your tree, the IVPA recommends that you make sure your decorations and hooks are firmly hung high on the branches.
Hanging them up high also prevents the urge to treat them as toys and play with them.
According to Douglas Kratt, DVM, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association, any broken decorations should be cleaned up immediately to prevent your pet from walking on—or ingesting—sharp shards of glass or plastic over the holiday season (AVMA).
Kimberly Kratt, are the owners of Central Animal Hospital.
“They may even take a bite out of it.
In addition, they have no idea that if they walk through the fragmented pieces, they could cut their pads.” And, according to Jerry Klein, DVM, Chief Veterinary Officer for the American Kennel Club, you should forego the tinsel entirely (AKC).

According to the veterinarian, who spent 35 years working at Chicago’s largest veterinary emergency and critical care hospital, “they’re drawn to the shine.” “And they’ll be tempted to consume it, which will result in indigestion.”

Do You Need to Cat-Proof Your Christmas Tree Lights and Battery-Powered Decorations?

Yes! Keep your cat’s paws away from cables, electrical cords, and batteries to prevent them from getting hurt. Wires and cords can create a potentially lethal electrical shock if they are chewed or otherwise damaged. Batteries that have been punctured might release alkaline or acidic substances, which can cause injury to your pet’s mouth and throat. But don’t believe you have to give up all of your favorite things! Set up a barricade in front of your Christmas tree, or “place” it on a tabletop to prevent your cat from getting to it.

Protect Your Cat From Toxic Holiday Plants, Too

In spite of the fact that they may appear lovely around your home throughout the holidays season, there are a number of festive winterplants that are toxic to cats (and dogs too). In addition to pine needles from your Christmas tree, the IVPA warns that cats should be cautious around poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly berries, all of which can cause oral irritation, stomach upset, and even death in certain cases. Cats are also poisoned by amaryllis. Also, keep an eye out forlilies, which are popular for holidays all year long but can cause renal failure and death if consumed in large quantities.

Other Tips to Keep Kitty Out of the Christmas Tree

Baby gates or pet gates should be used to protect the Christmas tree. They’re small and lightweight, making them easy to transport. Between Christmases, they may be rolled up and tucked away beneath the bed. A little fake tree, hung upside down from the ceiling and out of reach of your cat’s vertical jump, can be substituted for a large live tree
Keep the Christmas tree hidden away behind closed doors in the solarium or three-season porch, allowing cat to enter only when someone is around to watch her activities
Place orange or lemon peels in water-resistant containers below the tree skirt to serve as decorations. The stench will prevent many cats from coming near you.

Using baby gates or pet gates, you can keep the children and pets away from the tree. Lightweight and portable, they are ideal for moving around the office. Between Christmases, they may be rolled up and tucked away under the bed. A little artificial tree, hung upside down from the ceiling and out of reach of your cat’s vertical jump, can be used instead of a large one. Keep the Christmas tree hidden away behind closed doors in the solarium or three-season porch, allowing kitten to enter only when someone is around to watch her activities.

The stench will discourage a large number of cats.

These Santa-Approved Tricks Will Keeping Your Cat Off Your Christmas Tree

The holidays are like a never-ending present that keeps giving and giving. It’s no surprise that Christmas is regarded as “the most delightful season of all,” what with the Christmas presents, the Christmas parties, the Christmas cookies, and the Christmas trees. However, along with all of the nice things come situations that put our ability to be cheerful to the test. A little fuse has blown in one of the Christmas lights, which had been carefully strung together until now. In the course of his investigation, the youngster came upon an incompletely built bicycle and demanded to know why it wasn’t being assembled in the North Pole.

When it comes to dogs, keep in mind that our four-legged companions require additional monitoring over the holidays, especially around that enticing, fully decked-out Christmas tree.
Cat-proofing your Christmas tree isn’t simply a matter of aesthetics; some of the ornaments on your tree may be quite hazardous if consumed.
How to Make Your Christmas Light Wiring Cat-Proof Everyone is fascinated by Christmas lights, which is exactly what they are intended to do!
While eating, your cat’s lips can be burnt or even electrocuted depending on how strong the lights are or if the lights are turned out completely.
How to Make Christmas Tree Limbs with Bells That Are Cat-Proof Those bells around your cat’s collar that you put on to keep track of where he’s going and what he’s up to?
Move your most valuable decorations to higher spots on the tree and add a layer of jingle bells to the lowest portion to make it more festive.
Cat-Proofing a Christmas Tree with a Paper Garland is a simple technique.

While it is not harmful in the traditional sense, it is not easily absorbed.

That means you’ll have to spend all of your Christmas money on emergency surgery if that happens.

Cat-Proofing a Christmas Tree with Treated Pinecones is a simple process.

“Cats are often repulsed by the aroma and would most likely avoid the area,” adds the expert.

Did you know that cats are not fond of the fragrance of citrus fruits?

Profit on their antipathy to oranges by eating an orange and dropping the orange rinds beneath the tree!

Cat-Proofing Spray should be used on an artificial tree.

Learn how to make a Christmas tree stand that is cat-proof.

Playing with a Christmas tree stand is a lot of fun.

A piece of cloth or a tree skirt can be used to dress up an artificial tree if it is made of plastic or resin.

Cats like sampling the water, which they do in addition to being entertaining to play with.

To make a tree cat-proof, use wire ornaments.

In the event that you don’t want to deal with the frequent cleanup of shattered ornaments, you can just tie them to branches with wire or thread.

This material was generated and maintained by a third party and imported onto this website in order to assist users in providing their email addresses for further consideration. You may be able to discover further information on this and other related items at the website piano.io.

10 easy steps on how to cat proof your Christmas tree

Cats vs Christmas trees is a classic battle. Every year, cat owners are forced to witness a war. We would like to live in a world where cats and cats, as well as Christmas trees, may live in harmony with one another. Here are some actions to take to ensure that your tree is cat proof.

1. Start off smart by considering the type of tree you’ll use.

In this matchup, cats face up against Christmas trees. Every year, cat owners are forced to observe a war. In an ideal world, cats and cats, as well as Christmas trees, might live in harmony with one another without causing conflict. To make your tree cat-proof, follow these 10 steps.

2. Select a strong and unwavering base for holding the tree.

When choosing a tree foundation, always err on the side of caution and choose one that is assured to remain firmly in place even if the tree is pushed over or damaged. This is just as critical for the protection of children as it is for the safety of dogs. Inquire with your shop about the many alternatives available in-store. Even an artificial tree should be supported by a robust and stable foundation. Make use of a tree skirt to conceal all of the unsightly but necessary safety fixings at the base of the tree (including electrical items, see below).

Related Story:Twas The Night Before Christmas, As Told By The Cat’ is the purrfect book for the holidays

In order for the tree to not be too close to climbing objects, there should be enough of space around it around. If there are enticing shelves or furniture items that may be used as launchpads for kitty, she is highly likely to take advantage of them and climb up the tree to get some exercise. Maintain a free area around the tree such that leaping is either difficult or impossible to do. If at all feasible, locate the tree in a location that will allow you to close the door at night or when no one is there to keep the cats away from the tree.

It may be useful to use duct tape to attach the legs of the holder to a piece of wide plywood and place the entire tree on a small but extremely robust table if the tree is shorter than 6 feet (180cm) tall.

Of course, you must make certain that the tree is not in the vicinity of any potential launching sites for an opportunistic leap.

4. Consider not decorating the tree initially.

The reasoning for this is to give your cat some time to become used to the tree, as well as to teach him a lesson about leaving the tree alone. Fill a spray bottle halfway with water and hang it somewhere safe. You should put the tree in its proper location first, then allow her in to inspect while hovering nearby with the spray bottle just in case something goes wrong. If your cat shows any symptoms of trying to jump at or onto the tree, a gentle spray of water on her back and a firm “NO!” would suffice to communicate your displeasure with her.

You can spray the tree with Bitter Apple if you’re still concerned before you decorate it if you’re still concerned.

Alternatively, you may use a citrus spray, as cats are also repulsed by the smell of citrus.

You might also put orange peels under the tree to deter your cat from going near it in the first instance.

Citronella can be sprayed on pine cones and piled around the base of the tree to provide protection. Cats do not step on pine cones, believe it or not! For the same effect, pine cones may be placed around the base of your indoor plants.

5. Decorate the tree with your cat firmly out of the way.

Fiddling with Christmas trees, decorations, and breakable ornaments is difficult enough without having felines rush up to you and pummel the articles as you cautiously put them on the tree. Because your cat will assume that this is a game that you want for her to participate in, it’s best to keep her out of the way until everything has been set up properly. If your cat is nearby when you’re decorating, resist the temptation to tease her with the decorations as you’re putting them up. This will simply encourage her to view the glittering items as toys and objects to be swatted whenever she pleases, which is detrimental to her development.

6. Choose ornaments less likely to be attractive to your cats.

Some decorations will prove to be enticing since they dazzle, glow, dangle, and shimmer, among other characteristics.. On the other side, blander, less glossy, or flat matte things that don’t dangle much will be less appealing to your cat than other objects. Felt, paper, and simple decorations may be the most appropriate options. Also, stay away from anything that dangles excessively, leaps about, or spins. Never put catnip-stuffed ornaments on your Christmas tree. That’s just asking for it, isn’t it?

Decorative tinsel is potentially dangerous to cats that chew and swallow it, hence it is not suggested for usage in houses with cats.
Ribbons and other objects with a long length that drape from the tree can also be used in this way.
Christmas is stressful and expensive enough without having to worry about having to have emergency surgery to save your cat’s life if a piece of sharp-edged tinsel tears through the intestinal wall or causes a blockage in the digestive tract.
Using a single swipe of the paw, things may quickly spiral out of control, with the outcome being the spread of flames onto combustible objects.
Chocolate of any sort is harmful to cats, and the odor of the chocolate may be appealing to them if it is hanging from a tree branch.

7. Place decorations that are especially delicate, enticing or dangerous high up the tree, in the top two-thirds of the tree.

Some decorations will prove to be enticing since they dazzle, glow, dangle, and shimmer, among other characteristics. Cats are less attracted to things that are blander, less sparkly, or flat matte in appearance and do not dangle significantly. Perhaps the most appropriate materials to use are felt, paper, and basic ornamentations. In addition, stay away from anything that dangles, leaps about, or spins. Catnip stuffed animals should never be placed on a Christmas tree. To do so is tantamount to begging for trouble.

Decorative tinsel is potentially dangerous for cats that chew and swallow it, hence it is not suggested for usage in houses with cats.
Ribbons and other long things that drape from the tree can also be used to decorate it.
Even without the need for emergency surgery to save your cat’s life if a sliver of sharp-edged tinsel rips through the intestinal wall or causes a blockage, the holiday season is stressful and expensive enough.
When you make a rapid swipe of the paw, things might quickly go awry, resulting in flames engulfing combustible objects.

It’s important to be cautious while adding food to your Christmas tree. When hanging from a tree, chocolate of any sort is harmful to cats, and the odor may be appealing to them. Sugary treats are also not good for you.

8. Attach ornaments onto the tree securely so that they cannot be simply pelted or lifted off.

On tie the ornaments to the tree, use metal hooks that clamp to the tree instead than thread, rubber bands, or anything else that dangles. When you’ve finished attaching the ornaments, give them a gentle pull to ensure that the technique of attachment you’ve chosen is strong enough and that removing them would need deft strength. Use high-quality wire ornament hangers to hang your holiday decorations. The hook half should be clamped tightly around the branch with pliers so that it does not hang loose and cannot be easily removed off the branch.

9. Be careful with electrical wires and lighting.

When the lights are turned on, a Christmas tree is complete, but the wires might be too much of a temptation for an inquisitive cat. Keep extra wire tucked away and make it difficult for the cat to reach the power point and cord junction by using electrical tape. Remove any dangling wiring by wrapping the wire around the base or tree trunk rather than leaving it dangling in any other location. It can also be beneficial to cover exposed wires with wire covers or pipes in order to keep the cat from chewing on the cables.

The tree lights should be connected to a short interior extension chord, which should be taped into the socket with electrical tape.

Consider utilizing cables that automatically shut off if they become broken.

10. Relax now.

You’ve done everything you can to ensure the safety of the tree and the enjoyment of your cat when climbing it. Some cats will climb into the tree no matter what you do, and as long as you’ve ensured their safety, it’s better to come to terms with this and go with the flow. Decide to make this Christmas your cat’s Christmas, and resolve not to be annoyed by your attempts to outwit your cat this season. In the event that your cat decides to climb into the tree, you will be able to deal with it as long as you have secured the tree to prevent it from falling over and correctly fastened decorations to the branches.

7 ways to cat-proof Christmas trees

(Image courtesy of Jessica Lewis on Unsplash; photo credit: Jessica Lewis) As the holiday season approaches, understanding how to cat-proof Christmas trees is an important piece of information that all cat owners should share with one another – for the sake of the cat, the owner, and Christmas itself. We all know that cats can be pretty destructive when they set their minds to it, and we also know that most cats have a love/hate relationship with holiday decorations. Many cat owners may spend their holiday season listening out for the tell-tale sound of smashed ornaments, tinsel ripped from trees, or even worse, the creak and crash as their Christmas tree gives way under the weight of a cat attempting to climb it, according to the National Cat Owners Association.

For this brief tutorial, we’ve combed the internet for solutions that have worked for others in the past and compiled them all into one place to help you keep your Christmas tree and cat apart once and for all.

It’s possible that if your cat manages to stay away from the tree and off the naughty list, they’ll find some of the top 10 tech presents for cats and dogs or the finest Christmas cat toys waiting for them on Christmas morning!

Why do I need to cat-proof Christmas trees?

It’s possible that you’ve never considered it, but you may need to cat-proof your holiday trees. Sure, it’s beautiful to watch your cat interested in a Christmas tree, peering in between the branches, or batting around decorations (just take a look at all of the adorable photos on Instagram! ), but it might be quite hazardous. Your cat might suffer catastrophic injuries if a Christmas tree is pulled down on top of them, and they can become ill if they ingest pine and fir needles, artificial snow, tinsel, or the water used to keep real Christmas trees looking fresh.

The following are our top seven strategies for keeping your cat and Christmas tree apart this holiday season, in order to avoid all of these possible cat disasters:

Pet safety over the holidays: In your house, there are three holiday risks to be aware of: Here are seven absolutely ridiculous Christmas presents for pets. The best cat toys are as follows: These fantastic toys will keep your kitty companion entertained.

1. Location, location, location!

We all know that the Christmas tree is generally the focal point of your home throughout the holiday season. Maintaining your tree in a room that you can block off from your cat while you aren’t there can help to prevent it from being attacked or climbing it. This will prevent your cat from inspecting it without your supervision and from going on nocturnal raids. It is possible that placing your tree out of reach of your cat will cause them to lose interest if your tree is small enough and you have a method of securing it.

Using a hefty solid base and fastening it to a wall with some wire can assist protect it from being dragged over or pushed over by your dogs, regardless of where you place it.

The best canned cat chow, ranging from everyday servings to delectable treats
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2. Use discouraging smells

However, even while the use of lion dung is highly advised for keeping cats out of your yard, you definitely don’t want to have it in your living room, either. As a result, you may apply some more pleasant scents that felines prefer to avoid in order to deter them from visiting your Christmas tree this year. First and foremost, there are store-bought cat-deterrent sprays that you may use to coat the outside of your tree, causing your feline companion to turn its nose up at it. They are perfumed with scents that are intended to be unpleasant to cats, but not to humans, according to the manufacturer.

Alternatively, you could use a few treated pinecones at the base of the tree for a more homemade look and feel.

Other scents to consider are orange and apple, both of which cats are known to be wary of.

The best microchip cat flap is one that keeps unwanted feline guests out. Choosing the best kitten food might be overwhelming. Here are six options to consider.

3. Use foil and other Christmas tree defenders

Climbing Christmas trees is more difficult for cats than it is for humans, and if you can discourage them at the foot of the tree, they will likely abandon their attempt. Wrapping the base of your tree and the trunk in aluminum foil is a simple technique to accomplish this. The sensation of foil on their paws, as well as the sound it produces when they walk on it, are not particularly appealing to the majority of cats. To avoid being an eyesore, you may also adorn the foil with patterns or designs.

This will not prevent them from leaping on to it from a convenient shelf, but if the only way up is from the bottom, it will be highly effective in keeping them there.

Cats are known to investigate Christmas trees, and some people have claimed success in deterring cats from investigating their Christmas trees by placing other objects under the tree with textures cats dislike.

For example, pine cones and double-sided sticky tape have both been shown to dissuade finicky felines from eating them.

Climbing Christmas trees is more difficult for cats than it is for humans, and if you can discourage them at the foot of the tree, they may abandon up. Wrapping the base of your tree and the trunk in aluminum foil is a simple method to do this task. The sensation of foil on their paws, as well as the sound it produces when they walk on it, are not particularly appealing to the majority of domestic cats. To avoid being an eyesore, you may also adorn the foil with designs or patterns. Also available are Christmas tree protectors, which go around the trunk of a tree and prevent children from climbing up it. This will not prevent them from leaping on to it from a convenient shelf, but if the only way up is from the bottom, it will be highly successful in preventing this. (Photo courtesy of christmastreedefender.com.) In some cases, individuals have reported some success with deterring cats from examining their Christmas trees by placing other things under the tree with textures that cats don’t like for. For example, pine cones and double-sided sticky tape have both been shown to stop finicky felines from destroying their surroundings.

4. Keep the decorations up high

Make sure that you do not put ornaments, tinsel, or Christmas lights too low down on the tree where cats can readily see and reach them — if they are out of their line of sight, they may not see the tasty goodies that are hanging above them. You may add fewer sparkling pieces further down on the tree if you’re concerned about the tree seeming barren. This will make the tree less attractive to your cat. As a last step, make sure that your ornaments are firmly attached to the tree. If they do manage to get to them, your cat will not be able to injure himself by dragging them down and crushing them on the floor.

It may also be worthwhile to postpone decorating your tree until your cat has been used to the new member to the household.

The holiday season is rapidly approaching.

pic.twitter.com/XJ2FsYUEWt See more on December 5, 2018

5. Avoid tinsel and other shiny objects

Tinsel and cats are two things that should never be together. The ultimate sparkling, hanging temptation for your furry buddies could not be created in a more perfect way. It’s also the perfect tool for your curious kitty to use to bring the tree crashing down on top of them. Furthermore, it has the potential to make your cat sick if, in addition to fighting it, your cat decides to consume it. Despite the fact that most tinsels are not harmful to cats, they can pose a choking danger and, if consumed, can become lodged in their intestines, creating obstructions.

Similarly, sparkling, light-reflecting ornaments are like catnip to cats who are interested about their surroundings.

6. Choose a slimmer Christmas tree

Cats will be less likely to attempt to climb your tree if there are fewer openings and hiding spots for them to use as a nose hole and hiding place. Pencil trees, which are slimmer versions of Christmas trees, may deter your cat from wanting to investigate. With the additional advantage of taking up less space for display and storage, they are also considerably more affordable to decorate!

7. Fence off your Christmas tree

Even while it may appear to be an extreme measure, if all else fails, it may be worth your while to invest in a free-standing pet safety fence or a small pet exercise enclosure to help keep them at bay. Of fact, some cat owners have gone to extremes in this regard: Pet gates and fences made of wood are less obtrusive in appearance than metal ones, and they may be used to keep pets out of other places when the Christmas season is gone. In addition to being a freelance editor and writer, Jamie Middleton has been editing and developing material for publications and websites for more than two decades.

He is presently working as the content director for Space.com and Live Science, among other things.

In his leisure time, he writes fiction and poetry – or at least he does when he is let to do so by his cat Pirate, who is far too fond of the warmth of computers to allow being creative to in in the way of his enjoyment of the warmth.

7 Tips to Cat-Proof Your Christmas Tree

Christmas trees must resemble large play areas loaded with bright, glittering stuff for cats to be effective. Because of this, Christmas trees may be hazardous to cats, resulting in several potential hassles for their owners and a significant amount of stress. If you are joyfully bringing home your first Christmas tree as a cat owner, wait until you observe how your cat reacts to the tree before you begin trimming it. After careful inspection, you may determine what steps you need to take to keep your kitten and your decorations safe and secure in their enclosure.

1. Choose Your Tree Wisely

When it comes to cats, Christmas trees must resemble gigantic play grounds strewn with shiny, bright items. Because of this, Christmas trees may be hazardous to cats, resulting in several potential issues for their owners and a significant amount of inconvenience. Take your time when bringing home your first Christmas tree as a cat owner. Wait until you observe how your cat reacts to the tree before you begin trimming it. After careful observation, you may determine what steps you need to take to keep your kitten and your decorations safe and secure in their home.

2. Spray Repellents

If you want to keep cats away from your tree, there are numerous spray repellents you may buy, but you can also manufacture your own from scratch. Some cats are sensitive to citrus odors; thus, a spray of water combined with citrus or citronella oil may be effective. It’s also a good idea to scatter fresh lemon and orange peels around the base of the tree and throughout the branches of the tree. Simply replace the peels every few days to keep the aroma as fresh as possible. Cats that aren’t fond of the scent of apple cider vinegar can be deterred by spraying them with diluted apple cider vinegar at the base of the tree.

3. Wrap Your Tree Base With Aluminum Foil

Aluminum foil is a good deterrent for cats when it comes to getting into the Christmas tree. Aluminum foil should completely around the tree’s trunk and base. Considering that most cats are not fond of the sound of aluminum foil or the sensation of burying their claws into it, they will keep their distance from the Christmas tree.

4. Contain Cords

Cats are drawn to dangling electrical lines because they provide an opportunity to play and bite. It is possible for a cat to bite through a power cable, resulting in burns and electrocution. Protect the cables from injury by covering them with tape and taping them to the wall from the outlet to the tree. This will keep them — and your cat — safe. When decorating the tree, be sure to wrap the lights firmly around the trunk of the tree so that they are not easily seen. Don’t forget to unplug lights from your Christmas tree before you go to bed and before you leave the house to ensure that your cat is safe.

5. Secure Your Tree

Despite your best attempts, it’s possible that your cat will still manage to get into your Christmas tree. It’s critical that the tree be securely fastened so that your curious kitten doesn’t accidently bring the entire structure crashing down on him. Start with a hefty tree stand, or add weights to a smaller stand, to ensure that the tree remains securely planted on the ground over the winter.

You may also use a large piece of plywood to anchor the tree stand to ensure that it remains stable. Make sure to place the tree next to a wall to avoid it falling over. Tie the top of the tree to the wall with a fine wire or clear fishing line so that it stays erect.

6. Decorate Judiciously

If your tree is decked up with glistening, dangling ornaments, it won’t matter how much smelly repellent you spray on it; your cat will be hard-pressed to resist the allure of the holiday decorations. If you want to make your Christmas tree more cat-friendly, avoid hanging any breakable decorations on the lower part of the tree. Maintain as much freedom as possible from any ornaments and other temptations on the tree’s lowest branches as well.

Warning

Avoid using tinsel or edible decorations to decorate your home since they are both dangerous to cats. Food decorations such as popcorn and candies can induce intestinal obstruction if consumed, while tinsel might cause bowel obstruction if consumed.

7. Put Up Roadblocks

Based on the size of your tree — and the size of your kitten — you may be able to construct barriers to prohibit your cat from entering the Christmas tree over the holiday season. Furniture and tables that may be used as launching pads to assist your cat in jumping higher into the tree should be removed. An exercise cage, fence, or baby gate can be be placed around the tree to prevent your cat from getting too close to the fruit. When pine cones are planted at the base of a tree, some cats may avoid getting too close to them because they dislike treading on them.

How to Cat-Proof Christmas Trees & Decor

Many cat lovers struggle to keep their cats away from their Christmas tree and decorations during the holiday season. Here are some suggestions that have worked for us in our cat-filled household and that we hope will work for you as well!

SAFETY FIRST.

The most essential thing is to ensure the safety of your kitties. Please keep in mind that tinsel, plastic, wires, pine needles, berries, and other potentially hazardous items may be quite deadly if your cat consumes or plays with them. Consider a cat to be similar to a tiny child who is mobile but not yet old enough to comprehend the dangers that might be there. Make an informed decision about your décor. Throughout my home, I avoid using any glass decorations or tinsel. In addition, all of the ornaments I do use are shatter-resistant.

I don’t usually decorate with items that are small enough to be swallowed or swept away by the wind.
It’s important to note that I do not utilize any genuine plants or berries that might be consumed.
Instead of hanging garlands from the ceiling, I weave them around the railings.
As a general rule, I’m quite cautious about where I place certain sorts of decorating that can be more appealing to our curious kitties.

ELEVATE YOUR CHRISTMAS TREE.

Cats are substantially less interested in Christmas trees if the lowest branches are higher than their head height, according to research. Our solution consisted in the design and construction of thisChristmas Tree Stand. It was the first year we lived in this house, and thanks to you, it was successful! Naturally, it did not totally prevent the cats from becoming interested in the tree, but it did go a long way toward diverting their focus away from the tree and away from the house (even a real tree).

I caught them on sometimes jumping up onto the box’s roof, but I swiftly corrected them, and no one ever attempted to climb the tree after that.
But, in general, come up with innovative techniques to elevate your tree in a safe and secure manner.
Unfortunately, merely utilizing a tree collar isn’t sufficient because it isn’t placed at a sufficient height.
(As a side note, merely placing your tree on a table will not solve the problem since your cat will be able to leap up to the table, and the scenario will be no different than if the tree were on the floor, except that the tree would fall further.

Instead, it is preferable to raise your tree by placing a box or surround around the base of it.)

ARTIFICIAL CHRISTMAS TREE.

Christmas trees that have the lowest branches over the cats’ heads are substantially less attractive to them. As a result, we created and manufactured this Christmas Tree Stand as an alternative. We lived in this house for the first year, and you guys… IT WORKED! To be sure, it didn’t totally prevent the cats from becoming interested in the tree, but it did go a long way toward diverting their focus away from the tree (even a real tree). Additionally, I used the sameCat Training Methods that I had used to train our cats not to get on our food counters to teach them not to jump up on the box, which for the most part worked quite well at keeping the cats away from our Christmas tree.

It is more likely that they will grasp that this location is off bounds if you are vigilant and correct them the first time they do it (so that they do not establish a history of learning that it is occasionally fine) than if you let them do it numerous times before catching them.
Building a box, like we did, or utilizing a really large barrel, as I’ve seen done quite well, are both excellent options.
In order for it not to be turned over, it must be at least 2 feet tall and have a wide base.
If possible, raise your tree by building a box or surround around the base of it.

DON’T DECORATE IN FRONT OF YOUR CAT.

I have a rule that I follow all year long, not just during the holiday season, which is that I never ever decorate when the cats are present. In fact, while the cats are present, I don’t even bother to touch or change my decor. Putting them in their cat room is the simplest answer; but, if you do not have a cat room, try placing your cat in a bedroom or another secure and pleasant space where they can relax while you make improvements to your home (be sure they have access to a litter box, food, and water in any room you enclose them in).

In the same way that you start “playing” with your decor (since that is how they would understand it), they will start doing the same with theirs.

DISTRACT THEM WITH NEW TOYS.

It’s a good idea to set up a new and engaging toy for your cat at the same time you’re putting up your Christmas tree, preferably somewhere away from the tree. This offers them with another point of interest, which ideally will divert their attention away from the tree and onto something else.

It is not necessary to spend money on toys for this to work — even a fresh cardboard box will enough to provide them with something they are permitted to play with and on which they may concentrate.

ALLOW THEM TO SNIFF.

Cats are naturally curious and prefer to inspect everything in their living environment (i.e., your home), so once they spot your tree, they will undoubtedly want to investigate more, and you should let them to do so without interfering. Allow them to thoroughly inspect the tree base without doing anything to draw their attention to it – for example, don’t jingle ornaments or shake a limb at them… Pretend the tree is entirely dull and commonplace, and you will be OK. If they try to bat at or play with the tree, correct them vocally and make sure they understand what you’re saying.

DON’T PLACE ANY BIG ORNAMENTS AT THE BASE OF THE TREE.

If you dangle an ornament from the base of the tree, as if it were a toy, it is certain that the children would attempt to play with it. Don’t do it, plain and simple.

NO PRESENTS UNDER THE TREE.

Because the ribbons, tissue paper, and wrapping paper, among other things, are simply too tempting for curious kitties to resist, we don’t put presents under the tree until Christmas Eve. This encourages them to congregate near the tree, which is the polar opposite of what you want during the holiday season. What are we supposed to do with our gift-wrapped items then? My husband and I use them as Christmas decorations around our home! It’s a win-win situation since gifts that I would have wrapped anyhow may now serve as decor that I can use to decorate our house with a little creativity.

NOISE AND CHAOS.

As very sensitive creatures, cats might be terrified and stressed out by the commotion, commotion, noise, and turmoil that surrounds Christmas gatherings and festivities. I highly urge that you gently place your cat(s) in a quiet, closed area where they will feel secure and comfortable, and where they will have access to food, water, and a litter box, and where they will not be bothered during any holiday or party (anytime of year). When anyone other than my parents comes to our house, I make it a point to lock our kitties in their cat room until they leave.

If you don’t want your pet to become separated from you or run away accidentally during a hectic holiday season, try to be very aware of the fact that they don’t understand our human celebrations or holidays; as the humans who brought this chaos and change into their home, it is our responsibility to ensure that they feel safe during these times.

You are the legal guardian of your pets, and it is your job to ensure that they are properly handled by your visitors.

As a cat may easily live for up to 20 years, it is never a good idea to give someone a pet as a gift unless you are genuinely committed to providing for their care and well-being for the remainder of their life.

TAKE PRECAUTIONS FOR WHEN YOU’RE NOT AROUND.

I highly advise keeping your cats away in their cat room whenever you leave the home, and especially at night, or in any other secure, comfortable area that provides food, drink, and a litter box. This keeps them from getting into any trouble when you’re away or at night when you sleep. We really do this throughout the year, regardless of the holidays. I hope these suggestions will assist you in having a safe and enjoyable Christmas with your cat(s)! More cat-related posts may be found by visiting this page.

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40 Genius People Who Found A Way To Protect Their Christmas Trees From Asshole Cats And Dogs

It is very recommended that you keep your cats away in their cat room or any other safe, comfortable room that has food, drink, and a litter box whenever you are leaving the house, including at night. As a result, they are less likely to get into trouble when you are away or sleeping. Even though it’s a holiday, we continue to do this all year long. With any luck, these suggestions will assist you in having a safe and enjoyable Christmas with your cat(s). Please see this link for further cat-related posts.

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