Christmas trees are a cheerful way to mark the start of the winter season. However, this decoration might be frustrating when you own a cat. They may demolish the tree and get injured, leading to an appointment with a veterinarian. The following guide offers some effective tips to help prevent this outcome.

How Can You Protect Your Cat This Christmas?

1. Opt for an Artificial Tree

Real Christmas trees infuse a house with the beautiful, evergreen scent of the season. However, their bark and crunchy needles entice your cat. Artificial options are less appealing to a pet since the trunk is not as enjoyable to scratch and lacks the genuine pine scent. Purchasing a synthetic product helps avoid a trip to the veterinary facility. Additionally, there's no upkeep or cleanup needed with this product, which you can continue using for years to come.

2. Choose Ornaments Carefully

Cats are drawn to gleaming tinsel. Unfortunately, if they consume it, they may develop gastrointestinal obstruction, necessitating emergency surgery by a veterinarian. Prevent this issue from occurring and keep your pet safe by steering clear of this decor option.

Hang baubles high enough so a cat cannot reach them. If they knock the trinket on the ground and it shatters, they risk cutting their sensitive paw pads. Finally, avoid electric lights if you have a kitten, as they may gnaw on the cables.

3. Secure the Tree

Even if a tree is securely attached to a foundation, a climbing cat can tip it over. Secure the decoration to the wall using fishing lines tied to hooks or bolts. Keep it in a part of the home that can be blocked off when you're not around. Placing it in a corner away from furniture can also help prevent your pet from trying to climb it.

If you need help caring for your furry friend this holiday season, turn to the experts at Mililani Town Center Pet Clinic. For nearly 30 years, the veterinarians at this full-service clinic have worked tirelessly to ensure pet owners throughout the area have access to top-quality services, including routine exams, vaccinations, and spaying and neutering. Call (808) 625-6744 today to schedule an appointment, and visit their website to learn more about what they do.