Cats and Holiday Decor: it’s a combination that can lead to endless entertainment—and potentially a few headaches! For many cat owners, the excitement of decorating for the holidays is mixed with the challenge of keeping their curious, playful cats causing tree disasters or knocking over menorah candles safe. Cats are often drawn to the lights and sparkle that come with the season as if it’s their own festive playground. But with some planning, you can create a beautiful, cat friendly holiday home that everyone can enjoy safely. Here are some ideas for making your holiday decor both festive and feline-proof.
1. Choose the Right Tree
If celebrating Christmas, think about the type of tree that will be safest for your cat. Real trees can be attractive but come with some risks. Pine needles are sharp and can cause digestive issues if ingested, while the water in the tree stand may contain chemicals to keep the tree fresh, which can be toxic to cats.
Consider opting for an artificial tree, which is an alternative cat friendly Christmas tree that doesn’t shed needles or require water. Artificial trees tend to be more durable and are less likely to drop bits that might tempt your cat. If your cat is an active climber, look for a slim, smaller tree that will be harder to scale or consider a tabletop tree that’s out of reach.
Tip: Make sure your tree is secured tightly with a sturdy tree stand to prevent any tipping accidents if your cat decides to jump or push against it.
2. Skip the Tinsel and Ribbons
Tinsel, ribbon, and garlands may look beautiful, but they’re a huge temptation for cats and are not cat friendly decorations. These decorations are sparkly, easy to paw at, and dangle like irresistible cat toys. Unfortunately, tinsel and ribbon can be dangerous if ingested, as they can cause serious digestive issues or blockages.
Instead, opt for safer alternatives, like thick fabric garlands or beads that won’t shred or break into small, swallowable pieces. These alternatives are less appealing for cats to chew on and will help keep your decorations intact and safe.
3. Use Unbreakable Ornaments
Cats love to swat at dangling ornaments, which can be a recipe for broken glass and potentially injured paws. To avoid this, use shatterproof or unbreakable cat friendly ornaments. Plastic, wood, or fabric ornaments are good options and can still be just as decorative as fragile glass ornaments.
To reduce temptation, try placing any delicate or sentimental ornaments high around your space where they’re out of your cat’s reach.
4. Avoid Edible Decorations
It’s not uncommon to see edible ornaments like candy canes, cookies, or popcorn garlands during the holidays. However, these can be hazardous for cats, especially since many holiday treats contain ingredients that are toxic to pets, like chocolate, sugar, and artificial sweeteners.
To be safe, avoid decorating with any food items around your home. If you like the idea of food-themed cat friendly seasonal decorations, look for faux versions made from plastic or fabric that have the same festive look without the potential health risks.
5. Keep Lights and Candles Out of Reach
Twinkling lights can be especially tempting to cats, who are drawn to the shiny wires and bulbs. However, chewing on lights can lead to electric shocks or burns, so it’s best to keep lights higher up and avoid wrapping them on items your feline friend can reach.
Make sure to use pet-safe lights that don’t overheat, and when you’re not home, turn off the lights to avoid any accidents. You can also secure light strands tightly to make them harder for cats to access and chew.
In addition to lights, candles can also pose a risk to curious cats. The flickering flame can attract their attention, leading to the possibility of burned paws, singed fur, or even a fire hazard if knocked over. To keep your home safe, opt for flameless, battery-operated candles that provide the same warm glow without the danger. If you prefer traditional candles, ensure they’re placed on high, sturdy surfaces far out of your cat’s reach and never leave them unattended.
6. Anchor and Secure the Large Seasonal Decor
Even if you choose a smaller decoration, it’s important to anchor it securely to avoid any tipping and make it a cat safe home. Use a sturdy stand that can’t easily be knocked over, or consider securing items to the wall with fishing line or a wire. This way, if your cat tries to climb or jump at all the sparkle, it won’t easily topple over.
7. Distract with a Cat-Friendly Corner
Sometimes, the best way to keep cats away from the holiday decor is to give them something more interesting to play with. Some creative cat friendly ideas are to set up a special “holiday corner” for your cat with toys, a cozy blanket, or a scratching post. This gives your cat a festive spot of their own to explore, which may help satisfy their curiosity and keep them distracted from the main decor.
8. Use Cat-Repelling Scents
Some cats are deterred by certain scents, like citrus or peppermint, which are safe for cats but can keep them from getting too close to holiday decor. You can add a few drops of citrus or peppermint essential oil to cotton balls and place them around the decorations to create a natural barrier. Just be sure to keep oils and cotton balls out of direct contact with your cat and use them sparingly, as some oils can be irritating to pets.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy a Safe and Festive Holiday
Decorating your home for the holidays in a cat-friendly way may require a few adjustments, but the result is worth it—a beautiful space that both you and your feline friend can enjoy. By choosing cat-safe decorations, securing fragile decor, and offering distractions, you can keep your curious kitty out of trouble while enjoying all the holiday spirit. With a bit of planning and creativity, you can have a peaceful, festive season that’s safe for everyone in your home—including your cat!
