Cats and Christmas Trees: How to Keep Both Safe This Holiday

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

A glittering Christmas tree is a magnet for cats. It is a climbing frame, a toy shop and a hunting ground in one. For owners, it can mean crashes, broken ornaments and, at worst, an emergency vet bill. With some planning, you can enjoy the holiday and keep your cat safe.

Real or artificial?

Real trees. Fir and pine needles are mildly toxic, and can irritate the mouth and stomach if chewed. The sharp needles can also hurt paws and throats. The water in the stand may contain preservatives, fertilizer or bacteria that make cats sick. Cover it with a tight lid or a skirt.

Artificial trees. Avoid chewing hazards from loose branches and plastic needles. Check that the tree is stable, and that parts do not break off. Fake snow and flocking can be harmful if eaten.

Neither is risk free, and the key is how the tree is set up.

Secure the tree

• Anchor the tree to a wall or ceiling with fishing line or a hook, so it cannot topple.
• Use a heavy, wide base.
• Place the tree away from furniture that the cat can use as a launch pad.
• Consider a smaller tree on a table, enclosed by a gate, or in a room that is closed when you are out.
• Place it where you can monitor the cat.

Tinsel, ribbon and string

Tinsel is one of the most dangerous decorations for cats. A cat may swallow a strand, which can cause a linear foreign body, where the intestine bunches up around the thread. This is a surgical emergency. Ribbons, yarn and string carry the same risk. Skip tinsel completely, and use sturdy, non-stringy decorations.

Ornaments

• Choose shatterproof ornaments, felt or wood, and hang them higher.
• Keep breakable glass ornaments out of reach.
• Hang valuable items near the top.
• Avoid ornaments that resemble toys.
• Secure hooks tightly, or use twist ties.
• Do not use edible ornaments, such as salt dough, chocolate or candy canes. See is chocolate toxic to cats and is xylitol toxic to cats.

Lights and cords

Cords can be chewed, which causes burns or shock. Use cord covers, tape cords flat to the wall or floor, and unplug the lights when you leave. Consider battery-operated lights. Avoid lights on the lowest branches.

Toxic holiday plants

Lilies are deadly to cats, and even a little pollen or water from a vase can cause kidney failure. See lilies and cats: why they are deadly. Holly, mistletoe and amaryllis are also poisonous, and poinsettias may cause mild stomach upset. See holiday hazards for cats and toxic houseplants for cats.

Candles and other hazards

Keep candles away from the tree and out of reach. Do not put potpourri or essential oil diffusers where cats can reach, since essential oils can be toxic. Keep gift wrapping, ribbons and food away from cats. Alcohol and chocolate are dangerous. See is alcohol dangerous for cats.

Discouraging climbing and chewing

• Place double-sided tape or foil around the base, so the cat dislikes the feel.
• Offer your own climbing options, such as a cat tree near the room. See how to choose a cat tree.
• Play with your cat daily, so it has outlets. See indoor cat enrichment ideas.
• Give cat grass for chewing. See how to grow cat grass.
• Do not spray with citrus oils or other essential oils.

Stress during the holidays

Visitors, noise and change can stress cats. Provide a quiet room with a bed, water and a litter box. See fireworks and thunderstorms and cats.

If something goes wrong

If your cat swallows tinsel, ribbon, a needle or an ornament, or vomits repeatedly, goes off its food, or seems in pain, see a vet immediately. Do not pull on string hanging from the mouth or rear. See cat emergency warning signs and cat poisoning: what to do.

A cat-friendly tree plan

If you worry that your tree will not survive, consider alternatives: a small tabletop tree inside a pen, a wall-mounted tree, a tree decorated with only unbreakable ornaments, or a tree in a room that stays closed when you are out. Many owners find that the tree is exciting for a few days and that interest fades. Meanwhile, keep treats and toys handy to redirect your cat. Pick up fallen needles daily, since they can be swallowed.

When to see a vet

Keep your vet's emergency number handy during the holidays. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.