How to make your Christmas tree cat-proof: 12 tips to ensure a safe holiday

From your cat's perspective, the Christmas tree might be one of the most exciting things they have ever encountered. It immediately needs to be tested with climbing, jumping, and batting. It's simply unrealistic to expect them to admire it like a well-behaved child without touching it. However, we have some tips on how to avoid accidents.

We cover every detail from choosing the type of tree to placing ornaments and securing it. Here is how to make a safe Chrsitmas tree when you have a cat.

What type of Christmas tree is recommended?

If you prefer a real tree, we suggest choosing a type with flexible and less sharp needles, such as Nordmann fir or Douglas fir. Some cats not only enjoy playing with fallen pine-needles but also eat them. It’s a good idea to keep a vacuum cleaner nearby to quickly clean up the fallen needles.

Fortunately, artificial trees have undergone significant improvements in recent years and are becoming more realistic. Perhaps, due to their weight, they might be a somewhat safer option, but they are still attractive to cats. It’s advisable to choose a smaller size in both versions. If the cat topples over, it may pose less danger, and cleaning up the mess will be quicker.

The stand is crucial!

Always use a base that stabilizes the tree and keeps it in place even if an intruder is testing it. Stands that can be filled with wet sand work well; traditional metal or wooden solutions may not withstand the test.

You can also ensure the tree’s integrity by attaching its top with a string to a hook in the ceiling. The hook doesn’t have to be large, and if possible, it can stay in place throughout the year, especially if you like to set up the tree in the same spot every year. If possible, placing the tree in a corner may be a good idea; if it falls, there will be two walls nearby that might help keep it in place.

Protect the ornaments this way!

Dangling ornaments scream: “Play with me!” so, if possible, don’t hang anything on the lower branches. Unfortunately, for the prevention of serious injuries, you may have to give up glass or any ornaments made of fragile materials. Fortunately, modern plastic versions are very elegant and appealing. Replace metal hooks with ribbon or some other natural tie.

We don’t recommend hanging candy canes or other sweets on the tree because the cat might nibble on them; chocolate and sugar can cause serious, potentially fatal issues for them.

If you feel there is enough space around the tree, you can even set up a lower fence made of wood or metal. Of course, this might attract the cat’s attention rather than deter them from approaching the tree. Trial and error.

As for the string lights, there is no foolproof tip because cats are extremely attracted to light and sparkle. They might feel the urge to bite or chew on the wires. Try placing the string lights towards the inside of the tree, and if you can’t supervise the cat, be sure to unplug them!

In households with cats, it’s practical to keep the area under the tree empty after gift-giving. This way, there will be fewer enticing, rustling, interesting, and shiny things to attract the room tiger.