You've probably heard at least one story of a cat who toppled a Christmas tree over in their zeal to leap into it. While they may be a cute combination, cats and Christmas trees can also be a destructive force. If you celebrate Christmas or if having a tree is part of your holiday tradition, understanding how to build a cat-safe Christmas tree can help ensure that both your kitty and your tree stay healthy all season long.
The Trouble With Cats and Christmas Trees
While it might seem near impossible to keep your cat out of your Christmas tree — especially if they're a younger kitty — you can take steps to help keep your curious climbing kitty out of harm's way. A good place to start is knowing which aspects of your holiday tree pose potential dangers to your cat.
Needles and Tree Water
Those little needles that fall all around your Christmas tree can be toxic and otherwise unsafe for your kitty. According to Pet Poison Helpline, pine needles can cause nausea, vomiting, skin irritation or injury to the stomach if ingested. The sap from these trees is also toxic to your cat. The water your tree sits in may contain sap and harmful preservatives, so be careful your cat doesn't drink from the reservoir around your live tree as well.
If your kitty chews on your tree's needles and branches or drinks from the reservoir, they may experience vomiting, diarrhea, cramping and drooling. If you observe any of these signs, contact your veterinarian right away.
Keep the area around your tree swept and tidy, and always monitor your cat when they're around your Christmas tree. If your tree is in an enclosed room, shut the door to keep your kitty out while you're away. You can also cover the reservoir with netting or duct tape (sticky side up) to keep them from accessing the tree's water supply.
Lights
Electricity and cats don't make a great pair, and your cat can also get tangled in loose cords. Here are some ways to help protect your furry friend and still have a shining tree:
- Wrap the wires tightly around the branches to limit dangling or loose pieces.
- Avoid twinkling or blinking lights, which can entice your cat.
- Cover any cords leading from the tree to your outlet (try threading them through an empty paper towel or toilet paper tubes!).
- Check the wires frequently for damage from teeth or claws.
Always unplug the tree when no one is nearby to supervise your cat. If you believe your cat might have chewed a live cord, check their mouth for signs of burns and look for singed hair and whiskers. If you suspect they've been hurt by chewing on Christmas tree lights or wiring, call your vet immediately.
Tasty Tips
Glass and Sharp Ornaments
You can't fault your cat for loving ornaments. Those shiny, swaying objects look a lot like toys — your cat doesn't know that ornament they just knocked down from the tree is a third-generation family heirloom. So how do you get your cat to leave your precious ornaments alone?
Glass ornaments and ornaments with sharp edges can also harm your cat. For harmony between cats and Christmas trees, cat behaviorist Pam Johnson-Bennett suggests the following:
- Choose nonbreakable ornaments. This will keep your kitty from ingesting or stepping on a sharp shard — and save you a trip to the vet.
- Hang ornaments strategically. Keeping your ornaments toward the center of the tree and avoiding low-hanging branches will help make them less accessible to your cat's probing paws.
- Use twist-ties to secure ornaments. This will make it much harder for your cat to bat your ornaments to the floor.
- Get crafty. If your cat is tree-obsessed, consider decorating with simple paper ornaments and paper garland to protect your cat and your ornaments.
How to Build a Cat-Safe Christmas Tree
Johnson-Bennett offers several ways to keep cats and Christmas trees safe this holiday season. The best bet, she says, is to place your tree in a room that can be closed off when no one is home to supervise your fur baby.
If that's not possible, here are some other suggestions:
- Attach the tree to the wall or ceiling. You can anchor your tree with a fishing line and an eye bolt to either a wall or the ceiling to help keep your cat from knocking it over.
- Invest in a heavy-duty tree stand. Find a tree stand that can manage the weight and height of a tree — even if it's under attack by a climbing cat.
- Clear the area of furniture. This way your cat can't use a nearby table, couch or bookshelf to launch themselves right into your tree.
While you're preparing your home for seasonal safety, keep in mind that several poisonous holiday plants can be harmful to your cat. Take some time to make sure your holiday decorations are compatible with your kitty's health and well-being.
Cats and Christmas trees are what holiday memories are made of. By taking a few simple precautions, you can help protect your cat and your tree for a smooth, festive season full of cat snuggles and holiday cheer.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Hairball Control Savory Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Natural fiber comfortably reduces hairballs
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Entrée Cat Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Rice Recipe Cat Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Tuna Dinner Cat Food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 11+ Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports brain health and beautiful fur in mature cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports energy level and beautiful fur in mature cats
Hill's Science Diet Senior Vitality Adult 7+ Tuna & Vegetables Stew
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Chicken Dinner cat food
With delicious chunks in a decadent gravy
Hill's Science Diet Kitten Chicken Recipe
Supports the developmental needs of kittens to help start life with healthy growth and a strong immune system.ain, eye & immune system development
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Salmon, Brown Rice, and Whole Oats Recipe Cat Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Poached Salmon & Spinach Medley Cat Food
Delicious poached salmon paired with tender spinach in a mouthwatering sauce
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice cat food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful fur
Hill's Science Diet Adult Tender Chicken Dinner cat food
Delectable chunks with tender chicken smothered in a rich gravy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Roasted Vegetable & Chicken Medley cat food
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Indoor Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports energy level and beautiful fur in indoor cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Oral Care Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Indoor Chicken Recipe Cat Food
Supports energy level and beautiful fur in mature indoor cats
Hill's Science Diet Adult Turkey & Liver Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced turkey & liver to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken & Rice Medley Cat Food
Delicious roasted chicken and rice in a mouthwatering sauce
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Vegetable Entrée Cat Food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous fur
Related articles
Diabetes in Cats: Causes, Signs & Treatments
Know the causes of diabetes in felines to better understand how to prevent it in your cat. Ask your vet for treatment options.
Why Cats Like to Pounce
Discover the science and reason behind why cats like to pounce prey or toys, as well as peculiar behaviors to let you know when she's about to pounce.
All About Feline Bartonella
Explore the signs of feline bartonella and learn if it can be transmitted to other pets or humans. If your cat is showing symptoms, learn how you can help.
From Kitten to Senior Cat Food: Cat Nutrition by Lifestage
Learn the importance of changing your cat's food with their changing life stages because one size does not fit all.
Can Cats Have Schizophrenia?
Can cats have schizophrenia? Maybe, but it's more likely feline hyperesthesia syndrome.
How Much Living Space Do I Need for a Cat?
Feeling like you don't have enough space for a cat? Learn the ideal amount of room that cats need to be happy, including space tips for things like eating.
Why Do Cats Try to Eat Plastic?
You may wonder why your cat loves chewing & eating all kinds of plastic. Find out why she's fascinated by these items and what you can do to discourage it.
Techniques for Obedience Training Your Kitten
Get some quick tips on how to shape your kitten's behaviour with early training. Learn what to do and what not to do.
Why Do a Cat's Eyes Glow?
Learn the science behind your kitty's shining eyes and find out why their eyes have a unique glow to them.
The Effects of Catnip on Your Cat
Learn what catnip is, and whether or not it is safe to give to your cat and any side effects associated with catnip.
Training Your Cat: Basic Things to Work On
With proper understanding and patience, cats can be trained. Learn how to properly train your new cat or kitten with these easy-to-follow tips.
Unlock Cat Genetics for Purrfect Health
Learn about the influence of cat genetics on various aspects such as coat color, personality, and susceptibility to certain diseases and the nutrition they may need.
10 Important Health Tips for Senior Cats
Read our Top 10 Health Tips for your senior or aging cat, specifically tailored for the special health needs of a mature cat.
What Is Cat Chirping and Why Do Cats Do It?
Discover what cat chirping sounds like, why cats make that sound and what their body language when they chirp might mean.
Bladder Stones in Cats: Types, Symptoms & Treatment
Learn all about bladder stones in cats: Specific types of stones, clinical symptoms your cat might be showing, and typical treatment options from a vet.
Brushing & Food: Keys to Maintaining Your Cat's Oral Health
Brushing your cat's teeth is just as important as brushing your own. Learn signs or oral health problems in your cat and how to avoid them.
Important Information on FLUTD & Urinary Tract Infections in Cats
If your cat if struggling to use the litter box it might be a symptom of a larger issue - urinary tract disease. Learn the signs and treatment options now.
How to Make Your Own DIY Cat Scratching Post
Learn how to build an easy, homemade DIY cat scratching post using items around your house! She'll get exercise and you won't get a ruined staircase.
How to Read a Cat Food Label
Learn important things to look for on a cat food label, such as the difference between ingredients & nutrients, and how it can help you pick a cat food.
Can Cats Have Pumpkin? (& Is It Healthy?)
Learn whether or not its healthy for cats to eat pumpkin, how much would be an appropriate amount, and types of pumpkin that you might want to avoid.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.