It’s December, and the holidays are in full swing! Many families will soon be putting up their trees to celebrate the season. However, not all family members may understand that the tree is a decoration – not a climbing post or a new toy. Cats and Christmas trees have been the punch line of countless holiday jokes over the years, but if it happens in your home, you probably won’t be laughing.
Here are a few tips to keep your feline friends away from your holiday décor this season!
Use a Scent Deterrent
You’ve probably heard of using scents or pheromones to change a cat’s attitude. They can help keep a cat calm and peaceful or deter them from scratching your furniture. Scented sprays or oils can also keep your cat away from your tree. Some of the most popular options are citrus oils, like lemon or orange, although citronella, vinegar, and even hot sauce scents can keep your cat away.
Strategically Place Your Décor
Many people decorate their trees with seasonal ornaments that dangle from the branches – eye candy for many cats. With that in mind, strategically choosing where to place ornaments on the tree can help minimize issues. Place more delicate ornaments higher in the tree where they are further from the reach of swatting paws. Unbreakable or sturdy plastic ornaments are the best option for lower sections of the tree. You may also want to place fewer decorations at the bottom of the tree to create fewer enticing objects to draw your cat’s attention.
Anchor Down Your Tree
If your cat bats at ornaments or jumps into the tree, the sudden action can sway or even knock over the tree, leading to a sticky mess of pine needles, possible broken ornaments, and even a fire risk in some instances. Using wires or other connectors to secure the tree to a wall or sturdy object will keep it upright and minimize dangerous accidents during the holiday season.
Protect Wires
Lastly, some cats bite, chew or play with power cords, which can be a serious hazard for your cat and your home. Frayed or exposed wiring can cause electrocution in people and cats, and severely damaged wiring could even produce sparks that could lead to a fire. Wrap the power cords for your lights in sturdy tape or inside plastic tubing to keep them out of reach from curious paws and teeth.
If you’re looking for a great holiday gift for the cat in your life or a friend with a cat, consider a new cat bed or pillow from The Cat’s Inn! Providing a comfortable place for your furry friend to relax, these stylish pillows and beds are available in various colors. Beds come in cherry, oak, and maple varieties, providing a sleek look to your space.
Contact us at (877)228-7466 to learn more about our unique cat products, and place an order today!
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