A Few Compromises: Celebrating Christmas With Your Cat
Cat owners know that our feline friends like this season of shiny, bright dangly things a little too much. Most of us have to make certain compromises to keep their favorite feline safe and healthy, but foregoing the whole month of December? Not necessary.
The truth is, your cat can have their tuna-flavored cake and eat it, too. Ready to celebrate Christmas with your cat?
Togetherness, Not Disaster
The holidays are about togetherness, a fact not overlooked by your cat. It’s the season of snuggles, laptime/naptime, and general indoor fun – three things most cats have authority over. We know many cat owners struggle with the holidays. But before you put your Christmas wishes behind lock and key, we’ve got some solutions that may help the whole family gather and celebrate.
On Edge?
Successfully prepare for Christmas with your cat by getting them involved! There are now advent calendars designed just for cats. Instead of the traditional advent chocolates (which are super toxic for pets), every day in December your cat gets a special, delicious cat treat.
Christmas Decor…and Your Cat
Contrary to popular belief, cats can share their space with a large evergreen tree. However, the following safety measures are essential:
- Whether your tree is real or artificial, secure it to the closest wall or ceiling in case your cat decides to spontaneously give it a climb.
- A real tree needs water, but the tree stand may contain dangerously high levels of chemicals. To discourage your cat from lapping up a taste, cover the top of the tree stand with material that cannot easily break.
- Breakable ornaments may need to remain in storage. Luckily, there are lots of other options to decorate the tree. If they fall, they won’t shatter and potentially injure your cat’s delicate paws.
- String lights are usually a must, but if they dangle from lower branches or fall to the floor, your cat could be at risk of shock (if they are prone to chewing) or entanglement.
- Pick up any fallen needles promptly to deter ingestion or injury.
- Remember, tinsel is a big no-no in homes shared by cats. They simply cannot resist the way tinsel shines and moves. To be sure, avoid a painful GI obstruction (which may require surgical removal) and celebrate Christmas with your cat far away from the ER!
- Discourage cat attacks by spraying Citronella on some pine cones and hang them from several of the lowest branches, or keep the tree in a room they don’t have access to.
You’re Doing It! Christmas With Your Cat
There are some real threats to feline wellness if the following holiday plants are brought home:
- Poinsettia
- Lilies
- Amaryllis
- Mistletoe
- Holly
Know the signs of a cat poisoning and call us for emergency help. Decorate the home with artificial silk flowers or plants instead.
Meowy Catmas!
Hosting guests can be problematic, but as long as your cat has their own comfortable place to hide in, they should be okay. Advise guests not to feed your cat, let them outside, or leave personal belongings on the floor.
Remember to celebrate Christmas with your cat by giving them a present or two. Consider a new cushy bed, new toys, scratching post, or some delicious treats. Don’t forget to keep a couple of cardboard boxes around just for them!
From all of us at Blue Valley Animal Hospital, have a safe and Happy Cat-mas!