With Christmas just around the corner, plans will no doubt be in motion for entertaining friends and extended family over the festive period.
While you’re still making those last-minute decorative decisions, and deciding which side of the table Uncle Frank sits, PDSA Vet Nurse Nina Downing shares top tips for ensuring your cat’s wellbeing:
“For many of us, our pets are our favourite members of the household, so it’s only natural that we want them to feel safe and secure during the most exciting time of the year.
“However, before you swap your party planning hat for a Christmas crown, there are some very important considerations to put in play to make sure our furry friends feel at ease.
“With the support of Ever Clean, the high-quality clumping cat litter brand for a fresh and clean tray, we have prepared some tips to help you. So go grab yourself a cup of festive cheer (Gingerbread flavour optional) and keep reading:
Christmas Trees and keeping your cat’s paws off them
Aside from Hallmark movie impersonations, your Social Media feed will no doubt be showcasing videos of cats climbing up and toppling over Christmas trees. While this may look funny to some, those cats risk serious injury. Whether your tree is artificial or real, there’s a likelihood that your cat will be excited at the prospect of a new obstacle to climb, so it’s our role to keep our cats safe and happy at this wonderful time of year. When putting up your Christmas tree, place it well away from potential launch areas to prevent your cat from jumping into the tree. Secure the top of the tree from the ceiling to prevent it from tipping over if your cat climbs up from the base. If your tree is real, it will need to be kept in water, so use a cover to stop your cat from getting access as pine sap can cause upset tummies. Keeping your tree well-watered should mean it will shed fewer sharp needles which can get in your pets’ paws – make sure to clean up any that fall.
Cat-friendly decorations
Christmas decorations are a first port of call for making our homes feel festive – but be aware that many decorations can be hazardous! Think about the height and placement of decs – it’s best to hang these well out of reach. Placing them higher up may be less tempting for your cat as dangling baubles or bells can be irresistible to play with or even (almost unbelievably) nibble as a tasty treat! Alternatively, you could try making your own Christmas decorations using dried slices of oranges and lemons. Or, if you prefer traditional baubles, try pet-safe citrus sprays to scent the tree which may help to deter your cat from climbing. As well as tree decorations, lights and cables can get tangled in your cat’s fur and paws, they can also be an electric shock risk if chewed, so instead try battery operated lights to remove this risk. If your cat accidentally swallows something they shouldn’t, such as a small decoration, tinsel or fairy lights, they can cause a life-threatening blockage. If you think your pet has swallowed something they shouldn’t, contact your vet straight away.
Hidey-holes and dens
With all the activity around Christmas time, setting up a few ‘escape’ zones’ can be a great way to provide a safe haven for our pets. Cats like high up and out of sight areas where they can survey their surroundings, and quieter rooms that are less likely to be disturbed by marching feet. To encourage them to use these, place comfy blankets, treat and toys inside. Always make sure your cats can freely come and go and kindly ask guests not to disturb your pets when they are in their safe space.
Litter tray placement and privacy
Cats are very particular animals. Providing safe places for them to go to the toilet is essential for their health and wellbeing. Just as you’ve set up hidey holes, they will need good litter and litter trays on all levels of your home. They should be placed well away from walkways, doors and windows, so your cat won’t be disturbed – if they feel unsafe, they may look for other places to go to the toilet. If your cat is also an outdoor adventurer, it’s good to have a litter tray available over the Christmas period – just in case! Microchip cat flaps are also useful for secure access. Further information on how much litter to put in your litter tray can be viewed here.
Avoid foods that are dangerous for cats
Chocolate is highly toxic to pets, and cats are no exception here. Be cautious when leaving wrapped presents under the tree in case they contain chocolates or alcohol filled treats. If you hang any chocolate treats on the Christmas tree, mischievous moggies can very easily mistake them for a cheeky snack. Mince pies and Christmas cake contain raisins and sultanas which are also toxic when eaten.
Hazardous Christmas plants
Some festive plants that we use in wreaths and garlands are actually poisonous to our pets! Poinsettia, mistletoe, and holly and ivy can all cause your pet to become poorly if they nibble on them, so keep them high up and out of reach.
Don’t dress your pets!
We understand that it may be tempting to dress your pets up – to get them in the Christmas spirit. However, costumes for pets cause more harm than good. With costumes on, your cat can become overheated, agitated and stressed because they may not be able to freely move, display normal body language or even go to the toilet. The best way to look at it is from your own pet’s perspective. Given the choice, your feline friend wouldn’t dress themselves up.
“Finally, it’s also important to enjoy your Christmas planning and preparation. If you’re following the guidelines above, cats shouldn’t be too distressed, and you never know… they may rise to the occasion and enjoy all the additional attention over the Holiday season.”
For more expert guidance on keeping your furry-friends safe this Christmas, head over to pdsa.org.uk/pet-friendly-christmas
