Are cats and Christmas tree irreconcilable? Not necessarily, if you follow these simple but valuable tips
Tips and tricks for saving the Christmas tree from your cat
Cats and the Christmas tree are irreconcilable. Our felines are so enthralled with the new host that they can't resist attempting to climb, scattering needles, decorations and tinsel everywhere. And promptly getting it overturned. Keeping the curious cat away from our Christmas tree is, therefore, a wise idea for everyone, especially for the safety of the feline.
The only surefire way to succeed in the impossible feat would be to place the tree in a room that the cat cannot access. Or give up on the traditional Christmas decoration. But is it really so? Here's how to make a tree as safe as possible for our felines in just 10 steps.
Index
The choice
Let's start intelligently from the beginning, that is, considering the type of tree that will be used. In fact, "real" Christmas trees are potentially more dangerous for your cat than artificial ones. This because the needles of the royal tree are sharp and can even pierce the skin, as well as irritating and slightly toxic if chewed. Not that "munching" on an artificial tree is healthy, but the choice of the tree will be fundamental for the next steps. Also consider the size. A small tree will be safer than a large tree, simply because it hurts less if it falls. For a kitten, a tabletop tree might be a suitable choice, at least until it grows up and stops being so hyperactive. If you choose a real tree, you have to choose a completely inaccessible water container to the cat, to avoid the risk of poisoning. If we have small kittens, it is best to wrap some foil around the trunk. They don't like it and it will keep them away.
La base
Select one strong and durable base. Better to err on the side of caution. It will be essential for the safety of pets as well as children. It is also very important to use a cover for the base, to hide weights and electrical cables, and also anchor the tree to the wall or ceiling, to prevent the cat from overturning it.
The position
Choose a safe location for the tree that allows you to have free space around and that it is away from items that the cat could climb or jump from, such as inviting shelves, furniture and shelves. If possible, choose a location for the tree that allows you to close the door at night or when no one is home.
Before decoration
Try a first do not decorate the tree. The rationale behind this advice is to give the cat a little more time to explore the "intruder" and learn to leave him alone. In addition to uttering a sharp and firm "no" if you notice that the cat is about to jump, spray the tree with citrus spray, which he will not particularly like, keeping it away. If it is a plastic tree, even a small amount of lemongrass oil, the smell of which is unpleasant for the cat, may be for us. You could also put orange peels and lemongrass-scented pine cones around the base (also valid for your houseplants).
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The choice of objects to hang
Choose unattractive ornaments for cats. Avoid sparkles, glare, “dangling” and reflections (practically impossible!). Better opaque and non-glossy objects, made of felt or cardboard, while ribbons and other objects hanging from the tree remain banned. Remember that artificial snow is toxic and should not be used when you have pets and small children in the house. If you choose to decorate the tree with food, you need to be careful about what it sticks to, for example chocolate, which is toxic to cats.
During the decoration
Basic rule: do not decorate the tree in front of the cat, otherwise he will think that balls and festoons are a game and will continue to do so even when they are attacked. If your cat is around while we are decorating, you have to resist the temptation to use the decorations as toys.
Read also: Find out how to make beautiful DIY Christmas bells with recycled material
How to hang the objects?
Choose to hang the most delicate, seductive or dangerous decorations high up in the first two thirds of the structure, where the cat is less likely to arrive. Provided there are no ledges to jump from. Watch out for the trappings, which can be very harmful if ingested, causing serious stomach and intestinal problems.
Fixing on branches
Secure the ornaments on the tree securely so they cannot be pulled off easily. Use metal hooks e a pair of pliers to tighten the final part, avoiding the use of ropes or rubber bands. After attaching the decorations, check that the attachment method is suitable and cat-proof.
Electrical wire safety
A Christmas tree is only complete when the lights are on, but electrical wires can prove to be a dangerous temptation for a curious and unwary cat. Secure the cables with adhesive tape, avoiding leaving them dangling and easy to reach. Wrap excess wire around the base of the tree, or alternatively use protection grids and “sort-all” tubes. Always turn off the lights of the Christmas tree when no one is home.
Relax
Okay, now we've done everything we can to protect the tree and make it a safe experience for the cat. But don't let your guard down. And keep a camera close by. Because? Here, take a good look: what is that ball of fur that comes out of the branches? Maybe it was a lost cause ...
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Read also:
- Christmas decorations: how to build a beautiful fireplace with cardboard boxes
- DIY fairy house with cardboard (TUTORIAL)
- Christmas: DIY decorations from creative recycling according to the South Tyrolean tradition
- Creative Recycling: Use what you have around the house to make an impressive Christmas wreath
