Let’s get to know how to keep your cat safe at Christmas!
Cats are slinky little creatures. So even though you have set up a nice little perimeter around the Christmas tree to keep them out, cats have a way of squeezing through anyway—or leaping over the obstacles.
When choosing the type of tree stand you will use, try to find one that has a covered water reservoir, or use something—like aluminum foil or plastic wrap, to cover the reservoir so your cat cannot get into the water. Before you begin decorating the tree with shiny baubles and fragile ornaments, allow your cat to become accustomed to the curious new greenery in the room.
Keeping your beloved cats safe
Cat owners should be wary of snow globes. Some of these festive ornaments can contain ethylene glycol, commonly known as antifreeze, which is highly toxic to pets. If the ornament breaks and the liquid spills out, there’s a real risk your cat could lick it up or swallow it whilst grooming – if it’s on their fur – and become critically ill. Be sure to check what chemicals your snow globe contains and keep it well out of the reach of any curious cats.
Tinsel and other hanging decorations can look just like cat toys. But there is a risk they might swallow them or even break glass ornaments, causing injury. Tinsel and angel hair in particular can cause serious illness if ingested due to the blockages they can cause, and in some cases this can even be fatal.
Christmas lights can pose a real danger to cats if they decide to chew on any electrical wiring. Ensure you cover any exposed wires leading to the tree with plastic or cardboard tubes, and switch lights off at the mains when you’re not around to supervise your cat. Battery powered LED lights are also a good option instead.
Stress and anxiety for cats at Christmas
With so many visitors, change and new smells, Christmas in general can be a stressful time of year for cats, particularly nervous ones. Excessive cleaning and moving furniture about can disrupt your cat’s important marks of scent around the home, leading to anxiety. Other animals coming into the home may also be an unwelcome change to their routine.
It’s therefore important to provide hiding places for them, a litter tray in a peaceful area, as well as a constant supply of water. Sprays or diffusers which release comforting pheromones may also help. If there are any new animals in the home, ensure they’re kept in separate rooms.