Keeping cats away from the Christmas tree can be a challenge for many pet owners. Cats are naturally curious and often see the Christmas tree as a new enrichment item to explore. However, their explorations can lead to broken ornaments, tipped trees, and other unwanted surprises.
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Why Cats Are Attracted to Christmas Trees
There are a few key reasons why cats may be attracted to the Christmas tree:
- Novelty – The Christmas tree is something new and different in the home, which attracts feline curiosity.
- Height – Cats love to climb, and the tall tree gives them a new structure to scale.
- Shinies – Ornaments, tinsel, and lights are appealing to cats who like to bat and play with shiny moving objects.
- Scent – The pine scent of a live tree is an interesting new aroma that cats want to explore.
This irresistible combination makes the Christmas tree a prime target for inquisitive cats looking for adventure and stimulation.
Dangers for Cats and Trees
Allowing cats unlimited access to the Christmas tree brings some risks:
- Falling ornaments can injure cats.
- Cats may get tangled in electrical cords or tip the tree over.
- Drinking stagnant tree water can cause illness.
- Pine needles can puncture or be ingested.
- Tree preservatives may be toxic if consumed.
In addition to risks for cats, an unprotected tree is also vulnerable to damage:
- Cats climbing the trunk cause scratch marks.
- Ornaments and decor are prone to breaking.
- Cats may urinate on the tree.
- Dislodged branches cause a mess.
Without some deterrents, most Christmas trees will suffer some feline-related wear and tear.
Cat-Proof Fencing Options
Fortunately, there are some good options to fence off the Christmas tree and protect both cats and decor. Here are some effective deterrents:
Baby Gates
Baby gates can quickly cordon off a section of floor space. Look for tall, freestanding gates that connect pressure mounted brackets expand to fit an opening. These can easily be positioned around the tree stand area to block access.
Exercise Pens
Plastic exercise pens for small pets create a circular or octagonal enclosure that can surround the tree. They come in heights of 12 to 48 inches. These allow air circulation but prevent entry by curious cats. They can also fold flat for easy storage.
Cardboard Barriers
Sturdy corrugated cardboard cut into broad strips can create a visual barricade and discourage entry. This is an inexpensive option, but prone to being scratched or pushed over by determined cats. Tape cardboard to wall corners for stability.
Window Screen
Fiberglass window screen material can surround the tree base to guard against claws. Use duct tape to hold it to the floor in a square or circle. The soft mesh won’t harm pets if they step on it.
Chicken Wire
A basic cylinder of chicken wire with a wood base provides stability and visibility while deterring entry. Bend the wire into a circle and use zip ties to connect the ends. Place the tree stand inside the cylinder.
Selecting the Best Cat Barrier
When choosing a Christmas tree cat fence, here are some useful considerations:
- Tree size – The barrier must be large enough to generously accommodate the tree’s circumference.
- Cat size – Consider a taller barrier for large athletic cats who can jump high.
- Aesthetics – Opt for neutral colors or transparent materials if the barrier will be prominently visible.
- Floor surface – Barriers must securely attach to the flooring to prevent being pushed aside.
- Durability – Look for sturdy construction that will withstand cat antics and daily rearrangements.
- Portability – Foldable or lightweight designs offer easy storage between holidays.
Properly measuring the tree and accounting for a cat’s abilities will ensure the fence provides maximum protective coverage.
Additional Tips for Deterring Cats
In addition to physical barriers, there are some other smart tactics to safeguard the tree from curious cats:
- Apply double-sided sticky tape around the tree stand and lower branches. Cats dislike the sticky sensation on their paws.
- Use scent repellents made with citrus, eucalyptus, or vinegar on the tree skirt area.
- Try an automatic air spray deterrent that blasts air when it senses motion near the tree.
- Place foil or plastic carpet runners upside down around the tree. The surfaces are uncomfortable to walk on.
- Surround the tree base with inflatable tubes or lawn ornaments to block access.
Used along with protective fencing, these additional deterrents create a formidable anti-cat barrier. It’s best to implement them proactively before introducing the tree rather than as reactive measures after cats have already accessed the tree.
Providing Alternative Activities
Simply blocking off the Christmas tree may not be enough for some clever cats adept at outsmarting barriers. Providing appealing alternative activities can help divert their energy and attention.
Place cat towers, tunnels, and scratching posts in rooms away from the tree to occupy them. Interactive treat-dispensing toys and catnip can also buy hours of distraction.
Be sure cats have plenty of climbing surfaces and cozy napping spots located out of view of the enticing tree. Keep their daily routine of feeding, playtime, grooming, and bonding sessions the same.
When to Allow Supervised Tree Access
Once the tree is up, adorned with unbreakable ornaments, and stabilized, some cat owners opt to allow occasional tree access under direct supervision. This allows cats to satisfy some of their curiosity in a controlled manner.
Provide short 10-15 minute sessions two or three times per day. Set up a comfortable viewing spot for your cat in front of the tree. Redirect any behaviors like clawing, climbing, or chewing ornaments. End the session if the cat becomes overstimulated or aggressive.
Supervised access also allows you to monitor your cat’s behavior and try to discourage unnecessary roughness or over-enthusiasm. As cats get used to the presence of the tree, their curiosity may wane.
Conclusion
Keeping a Christmas tree safe from cats requires some clever deterrents and diversion tactics. A combination of fencing, repellents, alternative activities, and supervised access allows both Christmas tree and cat to coexist in harmony through the holidays. With some thoughtful preparation, everyone in the household can enjoy a feline-friendly festive season.