How to Cat-Proof Your Christmas Tree – Or at Least Try

Every pet is different, and so is their reaction to the holiday season. Some cats couldn’t care less about the decorations, while others will climb to the top of the tree within two minutes to bat at the star. Here are some essential safety measures you can take during the holidays if your cat is a fluffy bundle of mischief.

Christmas is the season of love, and it’s only natural to include your furry friend in the festivities. However, after the umpteenth shattered ornament, your patience might begin to wane. To preserve the peace for both you and your cat, here are some tips to help ensure your cat doesn’t turn into the Christmas tree’s worst nightmare. (Though let’s face it: if your feline is feeling frisky, nothing and no one is safe—but at least you can say you tried!)

Gradual Introduction

Even if your cat has a tendency to topple trees, you probably don’t want to give up this iconic part of Christmas. If you prefer sticking with a traditional tree rather than alternative solutions, think of it as introducing a new family member.

Cats are often fascinated by Christmas trees because they’re a sensory overload of new and exciting smells, not to mention covered in dangly, bat-worthy decorations. This can be too much for a curious cat to handle, so their instinct may be to climb and investigate.

To minimize their enthusiasm—or at least attempt to—you can introduce the tree gradually. Once you’ve brought it home, let your cat sniff it and even climb on it while it’s still wrapped in its netting. The more time they have to get used to its scent, the less excitement it will hold for them later.

Preparing the Christmas Tree for Cat “Attacks”

Even if your cat adjusts to the scent, unveiling the tree in its full glory can be a shock. Before decorating, give your cat another chance to get acquainted with this new addition to the room.

If they try to climb it, redirect their attention with their favorite toy. But if you see that determined gleam in their eyes and know they’ll keep trying, make the tree more stable. For example, weigh down the tree stand with heavy items (like bags filled with rocks) and cover them with fabric for a clean look.

The key is finding something heavy enough to prevent a feline-induced collapse.

Be Smart with Decorations

Once your tree is secure, your next mission is to protect the ornaments. This is no easy feat—but let’s stay optimistic! A few clever tricks can make your decorations less tempting for your cat.

Ball ornaments look beautiful on the tree but double as irresistible batting toys for cats. The solution? Secure them tightly to the tree. Instead of using the strings that come with the ornaments, fasten them with twist ties or wire, and hang them closer to the inner branches rather than the tips. If the ornaments are tightly attached, your cat won’t find them as entertaining.

If your cat likes chewing on plastic, avoid using tinsel or angel hair. No one wants to find their pet sliding across the house with tinsel hanging out of their rear end!

String lights are another temptation—and a potential hazard if your cat decides to chew on them. While it’s hard to part with these festive lights, there’s a workaround: wrap the lights tightly around the trunk, just like outdoor Christmas lights. This design choice is still beautiful but much safer.

Don’t Expect Miracles

Even with all these precautions, your cat may still triumph over the Christmas tree. Don’t be discouraged! Remember, the true spirit of Christmas isn’t about the tree, the perfectly decorated house, or the holiday feast. It’s about spending time with those you love—including your mischievous feline friend.