With December being a few days away, people will decorate their Christmas trees for the Holidays. Cats are notorious for their curiosity and love of climbing, which can pose a challenge when keeping a Christmas tree intact and safe. Teach your cat how to live with a tree in the home. Training a cat is possible. It may just take some time. Here are some tips to help you cat-proof your Christmas tree.
Have a Sturdy Tree Base
Trees fall over because the bases are weak, and the slightest off-balance will cause the whole tree to fall. Ensure your Christmas tree is securely anchored in a sturdy tree stand. This will make knocking the tree over more difficult for your cat. In addition to securing the tree, use positive reinforcement to teach your cat to stay away from it and not to climb it.
Avoid Using Tinsel, Garland and Breakable Decorations
Cats are often attracted to shiny, dangling objects like tinsel and garland. However, these can be harmful if ingested. Opt for cat-safe decorations made of ribbon or felt, or skip these items altogether. Choose unbreakable decorations or make them of materials less likely to shatter if knocked off the tree. It’s better to be safe than sorry when selecting the right decor.
Hang Ornaments Securely
In addition to using pet-friendly materials, hang ornaments securely on the branches. Place the more fragile or valuable ones higher up or out of reach of your cats. Consider using twist ties or ornament hooks to attach them, as this can make it harder for a curious cat to bat them off.
Choosing Between Artificial vs. Real Trees
Artificial trees are often more durable and less appealing to cats. If you choose a real tree, the scent may attract your cat. This may cause your cat to jump on the branches and be curious about the needles. Pine needles can be dangerous to cats if ingested, and the fertilizers in the water can also harm them. Artificial trees can also harm cats depending on the material they are made from. Avoid trees made of fiberglass or toxic materials.
Create a Barrier or use Deterrents
If you want to keep a safe distance from your tree, investing in a gate to protect the tree from your curious feline may be helpful. Consider creating a barrier around the tree using an arrangement of furniture. This can help keep your cat at a safe distance while giving them a physical warning to stay away. A scented barrier can work as well. Use pet-safe deterrent sprays on and around the tree. Cats often dislike certain scents, and a deterrent spray can discourage them from getting too close.
Provide Distractions and Correct Behaviors
Place cat-friendly toys and scratching posts near the tree to provide an alternative outlet for your cat’s playful energy. Be sure to keep a close eye on your cat when they are around the tree, especially at first. The tree will be an exciting new object in their life for a while. If you catch them trying to climb or swat at the tree, use a firm but gentle voice to correct their behavior. Positive reinforcement and rewarding positive behavior can help your cat learn that the tree is off-bounds.
Consider a Tabletop Tree or Wall Tree
If preventative measures fail, opting for a smaller tabletop tree that can be placed out of your cat’s reach may be best. Wall trees have also been popular among cat owners. These are two-dimensional wall decorations that will prevent your cat from climbing or eating a tree.
Training takes Time and Patience
Remember that every cat is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Knowing how to cat-proof your Christmas tree may take trial and error. Finding the right strategies to keep your cat and Christmas tree coexisting harmoniously may take some trials. The goal is to create an environment that is safe for your cat and enjoyable for everyone during the holiday season. Book your pet-sitting needs with Luv My Sitter with the holidays approaching.