How to Create a Cat-Proof Christmas Tree

For many of us, the scent of a real Christmas tree in the home marks the start of the festivities. Something about that woody, fresh smell wafting through the house becomes synonymous with Christmastime. But many new cat owners are torn about whether they can buy a real tree, given the daily rampage of most pussycats.

It’s not just about imperilling your novelty decs (a Christmas lama, anyone?) – but primarily about health and safety. Whilst seeing your tree topper lie in pieces is heart-wrenching on many levels, the real trauma comes from endangering your beloved pussy cat.

Whilst real Christmas trees are certainly not poisonous to cats, it’s not advisable to ingest pine needles for anyone, really. Do try to discourage them hoovering up the spiky leaves by regularly sweeping up any that have dropped off. A great way to prevent too much shedding is to ensure your tree is kept well-watered and away from radiators and fireplaces, as it’s the drying-out which encourages pine needles to jump ship.

It’s worth noting that whilst Christmas trees aren’t poisonous to cats, there are a variety of traditionally Christmassy plants and flowers which can be harmful if ingested by furry friends. Watch out for cats chewing poinsettias, amaryllis, hyacinths, mistletoe, and lilies. It’s much easier just to avoid buying any of these – but if you MUST indulge in a little Christmas greenery, put them out of reach of prying paws.

A tried-and-tested approach to navigating your first feline festive season is to invest in some plastic baubles, so when the inevitable happens and your puss learns how to paw the decs off the branches, there’ll be no shattered glass to deal with – just balls careering off in every possible direction instead. Another good way to stabilise the tree and avoid any potential cat-astrophes is to use fishing line to hold it in place. Very thin and virtually invisible, it’s a great option to secure your spruce. Simply attach with nails in a discreet spot either side of the tree.

Listen, there is no sure-fire way to deter your cat from the Christmas tree. We’d be lying if we said there was, and you’d grow to resent us. What we can do is offer some advice on making the tree less of a moggie Mecca.

First and foremost, do not overreact every time they stray near it. Cats are notoriously tricky tricksters, and your firm hand will only pique their interest in the forbidden forest recently installed in their living room.

Another wonderfully weird tip for discouraging your kitty from mounting the Norway Spruce: citrus peel. Cats don’t like oranges, lemons, or limes,  so popping a few peels around the base of the tree, or concealing deep within branches, produces that vibrant, zesty smell they hate.

Another classic way to distract your pussycat is a well-timed bit of play. And by play, we mean mania. Get out a wand, a laser, or a noisy toy!

Ever overheard the gentle tinkle of breaking glass? Or jump out of your skin upon the almighty crash of the tree being felled inside? Cats climbing Christmas trees have a long and varied history – usually culminating in disaster.

The ongoing war between beast and tree that repeats every December demands direct action. Pussyfooting around the issue will not warrant results. The only way to combat your live-in demon’s insistence on scaling the Nordmann Fir is by employing the military grade tactic of aluminium foil. Tinfoil. Doesn’t matter the brand, the thickness or the shine level – wrapping the tree trunk with foil - the texture of which cats detest - will deter their assault.

Is there something innately funny about your cat terrorising your Christmas tree? Yes. But there’s nothing remotely cute about dealing with cut paws.

It will come as no surprise to any pet owner that sometimes our pets behave in ways detrimental to their own health and wellbeing. Sometimes they flout clear rules just for the thrill of seeing the human response.

That’s why it’s imperative to take precautionary measures like scattering your orange peel around the base, wrapping foil around the trunk, and securing it in place with fishing line. Do try not to overreact every time they walk past your pride and joy – this usually only motivates them to misbehave more.

Explore Jollyes’ cat range, including toys, treats, apparel and more, and bribe your kitty into their best behaviour this festive season.