Is It Ok to Have a Christmas Tree With a Cat?

Yes and no! It's a bit of a mixed bag when it comes to having a Christmas tree with a cat. It’s important to remember that some original Christmas trees can be risky for our cats unless you create a cat proof christmas tree. Pine trees, for instance, are a no-go because they can cause liver damage and even be fatal. 

Fir or spruce are safer options if you’re set on a live tree. Now, the tree needles can cause tummy trouble if your cat decides to chew on them. And the water bowl under the tree with fertilizers? A big no-no! It’s best to cover it up so your cat can’t take a sip.

Now, an extra thing to pay attention to is the rest of the tree. We mean the glass decorations, tinsels, twinkling lights, and cords. All of these Christmas tree elements can be a whole other ballgame. 

Long story short, if you want to keep your tree and cat happy, consider a fake tree or take careful precautions with a real one.

How Do I Keep Cats Off My Christmas Tree?

Keeping your tree safe from curious cats is totally doable. Here are some tips:

• Set up and anchor the tree a few days before decorating. 
• Avoid placing the tree near spots where your cat can jump.
• Create a different play area with toys, and scratching spots.
• Try a cat-friendly deterrent spray on the lower half of the tree.
• If all else fails, set up the tree in a room your cat can’t access.
• Hold off on putting presents under the tree until Christmas Eve.
• Skip large ornaments at the base because they will look like toys.
• Cats aren’t fans of aluminum foil. Thus, it's best to wrap the trunk.
• Let the cat sniff and explore the tree without drawing attention to it.
• Use a pet fence or playpen to protect your cat from the tree’s base.
• Let your cat get familiar with the tree and the Christmas decorations.
• Avoid decorating in front of your cat. Do it in another room so they won’t get curious about the decorations on the tree while you move them.

Why Do Cats Like Getting in Christmas Trees?

Anytime it's the holiday season you probably wonder why your cat won’t leave the Christmas tree alone. And you are right. Cats are drawn to the ornaments because they see them as new shiny toys, and the tree offers a perfect mix of high hiding spots. Setting up the Christmas tree means a new, cozy cat shelter and playground. But why do cats have a magnetic attraction to trees? Here are five reasons:

1. Natural Instinct

Cats are born climbers and explorers. Trees, with their intriguing branches, offer a perfect playground for them to exercise their climbing instincts.

2. New Smell and Texture

A Christmas tree brings new scents and textures into the home, naturally intriguing to a cat. The fresh scent of pine or fir can be particularly enticing.

3. Hide and Seek Spot 

The branches of a Christmas tree provide excellent hiding spots. Cats love finding cozy nooks to observe their surroundings while feeling safe.

4. Attractive Shiny Toys 

The dangling ornaments and twinkling lights are like an open invitation for play. Cats can’t resist the temptation to “hunt” the shiny baubles.

5. Warm and Cozy Feeling

Christmas trees are often set up in the coziest corner of the house. Cats love being where the action is, and the tree becomes a cozy corner for them to curl up.

So, when it comes to cats and Christmas trees, it’s a mix of natural instincts, safe feeling, and cozy comfort that draws them in. Just be sure to have a cat friendly christmas tree so their playtime won’t lead to any cat-astrophes.