December is officially here! Many people already have their holiday decorations up, and lots more will be joining them this week. Of course, that can be tricky ground for people with cats. Fluffy is notorious for attacking Christmas trees! While this can make for cute videos, it’s actually quite dangerous. A Bellevue, WA vet offers some tips on keeping your cat out of the tree in this article.

Decorate Wisely

As far as Fluffy is concerned, a tree hung with shiny, dangling objects is a giant kitty play station. Make the tree a bit less appealing by putting just a few ornaments within paws’ reach. These should be things that are safe for your pet, and won’t hurt her. Put the majority of your decorations on the top two-thirds or so.

Training

Telling your cat to leave the tree alone probably won’t be very effective. However, you can make her a bit leery of it. If Fluffy approaches the tree, do something that will startle her without hurting her, such as clapping your hands or squirting her with water. This may be enough to make her think twice.

Tire Her Out

Kitties can tire themselves out pretty quickly when they are playing. Take a few minutes to hold a laser pointer or string toy for Fluffy to chase and pounce on. Hopefully, once your furry pal has burned off her zoomies, she’ll be more interested in napping than in wreaking havoc.

Barriers

While some people have resorted to surrounding their trees with vacuum cleaners, you don’t have to go that far. However, you might want to consider getting a puppy gate.

Location

Choosing the right spot is also important. If you put the tree near a sofa, desk, or chair, you’re offering Fluffy easy access. That’s asking for trouble!

Artificial

Your pet may be able to climb a real tree, but she probably won’t have much luck scaling an artificial one. Consider getting a fake tree this year. You’ll also be able to reuse it!

Bribery

Don’t forget to get your feline buddy some things of her own! Toys, treats, catnip, and pet furniture pretty much make Fluffy’s list. Hopefully, your cat will amuse herself with her own things. This is a great time of year to get your kitty a cat tower! Happy Holidays! Contact us, your Bellevue, WA animal clinic, anytime!