Keeping Fluffy Out Of The Tree

The holidays have officially arrived! At this time of year, our feline friends are at their most mischievous. Actually, attacking Christmas trees is one of Fluffy’s favorite seasonal traditions. Read on as a local Coles County, IL vet offers some advice on keeping your playful pet out of your tree.

Keep your frisky feline in mind as you are hanging decorations. Put the majority of the decorations—including most of the tinsel and lights and anything small, sharp, or fragile—on the top half of the tree, well out of paws’ reach. Put just a few unbreakable ornaments on the lower branches.

One thing that may help is blocking your cat’s access to the tree. While a protective ring of vacuum cleaners would probably keep Fluffy away, it probably won’t help you get that cozy look you’re going for. Try using a puppy gate instead.

Sometimes, when it comes to dealing with behavioral issues in cats, bribery can be very effective. Give Fluffy some of her gifts early, and take time to play with her every day. Hopefully, after a fun session of Catch The Red Dot, your furry buddy will be worn out, and more inclined to napping under the tree than trying to climb it.

Choosing the right location is also very important. Don’t put the tree next to a sofa or chair that your furry pal can use as a kitty launch pad. That’s just asking for trouble!

Another thing that can help is getting an artificial tree. Your kitty may still bat at the ornaments, but at least she won’t be able to climb it. Plus, you’ll be able to reuse it, which will save you money in the long run.

Taste deterrents can also help make the tree less appealing to Fluffy. You can find them in most pet stores. Just don’t spray them directly on gifts!

A bit of precaution isn’t a bad thing here. Use fishing line to secure the top of the tree to the wall or ceiling. It won’t show, but will offer extra support that may help keep the tree standing if Fluffy tries to climb it.

Happy Holidays from all of us here at Clyde’s Animal Clinic. As your Coles County, IL vet clinic, we are dedicated to offering excellent veterinary care.