How to Win the Battle of Cat Versus Christmas Tree

You're probably looking forward to sharing Christmas with your cat. After all, what could be more cozy than a happily purring kitty alongside a warm fire and a brilliantly-decorated tree? But before you start hanging tinsel and setting out presents, you should know that cats and Christmas trees don't necessarily coexist all that easily -- especially when a fascinated feline tries to make that tree its own personal toy. Let's look at some steps you can take to keep your cat out of your Christmas tree while still enjoying the holiday as usual.

Why You Don't Want Your Cat in Your Christmas Tree

Christmas trees are like holiday catnip in some respects. As instinctive outdoor hunters and climbers, cats are entranced by the natural odor of pine, the texture of branches, and the sight and feel of pine needles. The multicolored lights reflecting off shiny decorations can make a Christmas tree an irresistible spectacle, one that your cat feels compelled to explore.

Unfortunately, that exploration can have serious consequences. Natural trees may stand in water full of toxic chemicals that can poison any cat that uses the stand as a water bowl. Both natural and artificial pine needles can cause lacerations and injuries if chewed or swallowed, while electric light cables can cause electrocution. Even if your cat escapes direct harm to itself, it may find a way to topple the tree, wrecking your holiday mood and potentially damaging your home.

Christmas Tree Deterrents for Cats

Cat owners can discourage their furry friends from mangling the Christmas tree simply by making the tree less appealing for exploration For instance, many cats have an odd distaste for pine cones. By placing pine cones strategically around the base of the tree, you can create an effective anti-cat barrier. Since cats also dislike the scent of vinegar and citronella, you may also want to spray some around the tree as an additional deterrent.

The easiest way to steer your cat clear of toxic pine resin or water involves using an artificial tree instead of a natural one. If you must go with a real tree, cover the base so your cat can't get into the water.

Christmas Tree Positioning and Stability

Your curious kitty may decide to explore your Christmas tree no matter what kinds of obstacles and discouragements you put in its path. In such cases, the only truly safe response involves keeping the tree in one room and your cat in another at all times. Failing that, you should at least work on setting up the tree in the safest, most stable manner possible.

To keep your Christmas tree reliably upright, purchase a heavy stand that provides the necessary support. If you can't find a sufficiently heavy stand, nail it to a heavier base or place weights on top of it. Don't set up the tree in the middle of the room; instead, position it against a wall to give it one less direction which to fall. You can enhance the stability of your tree further by tying a piece of fishing line to the top and fastening the other end of the line to the ceiling or wall.

Cat-Friendly Ways to Decorate Your Christmas Tree

Your choice of Christmas tree decorations can help keep both your cat and your tree in one piece this holiday season. Instead of covering the tree with shiny tinsel that a cat might feel compelled to eat, hang decorations made of colored paper or other, safer materials. Focus your decoration hanging on the upper part of the tree instead of leaving lots of low-hanging temptations for your kitty.

Hang most of your lights near the center of the tree, not out at the edges. Remember to cover any cords and cables with tape or a designated cord container, and to turn out the lights (whenever you're not in the room). If your cat likes to bat at Christmas ornaments, secure them with wire so that they won't fall on the floor and break into pointed shards.

Have you ever hung little bells on a Christmas tree? They not only look festive, but they also make a delightful jingly sound -- a sound that can also alert you to trouble in the eternal battle of Cat Versus Tree. Hang some bells on the branches, and you'll know right away when your cat has decided to venture into tree territory. You can then take your cat away from the tree and give it something else to occupy itself with.

Holiday Pet Health Issue? Have a Vet Handy

Holiday accidents can happen in the safest homes. If your cat chokes on a piece of tinsel, receives an injury from a fallen tree, swallows a sharp pin or plastic "needle," or shows signs of exposure to toxic chemicals in the tree or its stand, you'll need immediate veterinary aid. Know which local animal hospital will be open throughout the Christmas holiday and keep that phone number and address close at hand. Between your own efforts and those of an experienced feline vet, you can enjoy a happy, healthy Christmas with your cat.