The Christmas season is around the corner. We are counting down the last few days until Christmas Eve. Soon the Christmas tree will need to be brought in and decorated. A common thing. Not so for people who have a cat at home. For these creatures, it’s something of a wonderful toy. And a dangerous toy at that.

Is the tree safe for cats?

It’s definitely not alive. Cats can’t eat any part of it, including the needles. Christmas plants are toxic to cats, plus trees can produce oils that cause eye or even mouth and stomach irritation. The substances can cause vomiting or diarrhea. In addition, there is also a risk of internal damage from eating the needles. So if you have a cat in the household, it is far preferable to get an artificial Christmas tree, which is much safer for the cat than a live tree.

What cats are attracted to

Cats, like children, are attracted to trees. It’s the novelty that attracts them. Bringing something new into the home is always interesting. That’s why cats want to try it out. They’re basically just like little kids. Then there’s the height factor. In the wild, cats also climb trees. So climbing a Christmas tree is not unusual. From a cat’s point of view, it’s a perfectly normal thing to do. Plus, there are sparkly ornaments on the tree. They look like toys to cats.

━━ ( Source: Tatyana Rubleva /  Unsplash+ )

How to protect a tree

At first glance, it seems impossible to protect a tree from a cat. However, you can reduce the risk of an unwanted disaster with a few steps. Cats are resourceful, but you can always stay one step ahead. The most important thing is to anchor the tree securely. So use a sturdy stand that the cat can’t knock over. If possible, it’s a good idea to secure the tree to the ceiling or wall with an invisible cord.

The next step is suitable decorations. We understand that glass ornaments are very attractive. But they are dangerous for cats. So use plastic ornaments that won’t break if they fall. Alternatively, the Christmas tree can also be decorated with fabric or wooden ornaments. It is particularly suitable to hang them on higher branches. Attach ribbons and lights so that they do not hang.

A tree in a good place

If possible, put the tree in a room that can be closed off while you are away. Alternatively, you can place it on a raised surface or in a corner where it will be harder for the cat to get to. You can also create a barrier for your four-legged pet by placing an uncomfortably textured rug or low fence in front of the tree.

Cats also don’t like the smell of citrus, menthol or lavender. So if you apply essential oil to the base of the tree, it will probably deter the cat. However, be careful not to let the cat come into contact with the oil. This could be toxic to it. The lower branches of the tree can be sprayed with apple cider vinegar diluted with water. The cat won’t like the smell either.

The lights on the tree

Lights are, of course, particularly attractive to cats. So make sure they are securely fastened and the cables are hidden or covered with a plastic protective tube. If your cat is biting the cables, then it’s also a good idea to spray them with a special bitter-tasting spray that won’t harm but will deter it.

It won’t be perfect

Whatever you do, it won’t be perfect. You probably won’t completely protect the Christmas tree from your cat. Despite the precautions, you have to expect some of the ornaments to fall off the tree. The tree probably won’t look the way you’ve prepared it. However, the important thing is to stay calm and enjoy the Christmas season anyway.