The holidays are just around the corner! As you start putting up decorations, your feline friend may very well try to lend you a helping paw. Kitties love to make themselves useful! They also love getting themselves into mischief. Here, a Fox Chapel, PA vet offers tips on keeping Fluffy out of the tree.

Ornaments

Cats just can’t resist batting at shiny things… especially things that just happen to be hung right at kitty level. Keep fragile and breakable decorations on the top third of the tree, and put the hardier, more durable pieces on the bottom.

Kitty Launchpad

Don’t put the tree too close to a desk, sofa, or anything else that Fluffy could jump off to reach the tree. That’s just asking for it!

Reinforcement

Every year, frisky kitties knock over dozens—if not hundreds—of beautifully-decorated trees. If you see Fluffy looking at the tree with a decided gleam in her eye, you may need to take some extra precautions. Use fishing wire to secure the top of the tree to the wall or ceiling: it won’t show, but will add extra support. Getting a good stand is also very important.

Bribery

Try to keep your playful pet occupied elsewhere. Make sure your feline buddy has plenty of toys, and take time to play with her every day. We also recommend getting Fluffy a good cat tower. If your furball tires herself out during kitty playtime, she may be too tired to attack the tree.

Hazards

Trees can be quite dangerous to cats! Fragile ornaments could shatter and leave sharp glass shards. Ribbon, strings, tinsel, ornament hooks, and lights are also hazardous to our feline friends. Keep these things well out of paws’ reach!

Kitty Training

You never want to punish your cat for misbehaving. Fluffy really doesn’t understand the concept of punishment, and may just feel scared, anxious, or confused. If your furry friend is pawing at tree ornaments, make a loud noise: clap your hands, bang two pots together, or sound a bike alarm. These things won’t hurt your cat, but they will startle her. You may also want to use a baby gate to block your kitty’s access to the tree.

Happy Holidays! Do you have questions or concerns about your pet’s health or care? Contact River Valley Veterinary Hospital, serving the Fox Chapel, PA area, anytime!