Helpful tips to help keep pets away from Christmas trees
Keep your pets and Christmas tree safe this festive season with these tricks.
It's the most wonderful time of the year!
While most public spaces start putting up Christmas decorations way ahead of time, it's now December, which means many homes will be putting up their trees.
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However, Christmas trees can be fragile and are often targets for kids and pets.
Your cat and Christmas tree can peacefully coexist, and your pupper doesn't have to paw at the plants.
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Here are a few tips to keep your tree pet-proof.
1. Hang ornaments higher on your Christmas tree.
Low-hanging ornaments are a recipe for disaster.
They'll be an easy target for a curious cat or an accidental knock of the dog's tail.
Hang ornaments higher and put only lights on the bottom.
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2. Make your Christmas tree smell bad.
You don't want a stinky tree in your home for a month, but certain scents are disgusting for pets and undetectable to humans.
There are sprays you can buy in stores, or you can make your own.
Cats and dogs don't like citrus, so consider hanging a few handmade lemon- or orange-slice ornaments on the tree.
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3. Put a physical barrier between your pet and the Christmas tree.
They can't destroy what they can't reach, so place your tree in a corner, if possible, and surround it with a physical barrier, such as a baby gate.
If your pets are on the smaller side, use the opportunity to add some decor by placing large wrapped boxes (real presents or props) around the tree.
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4. Surround your Christmas tree with things pets avoid.
If you don't want to use a physical barrier, strategically placing materials that deter pets is also a good option.
Cats and dogs hate aluminium foil, so create a circle around the tree.
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5. Keep your Christmas tree away from elevated surfaces.
Cats love to climb, and when it comes to protecting Christmas trees, location is everything.
Avoid putting your tree next to an end table or couch from which your cat will launch itself onto the tree.
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6. Skip the food-based Christmas tree decor.
This is pretty self-explanatory. If you don't want to draw attention to the tree, skip the popcorn garlands and edible decorations.
7. Opt for a smaller tree that doesn’t sit on the ground.
Many pet owners opt for a smaller tree that can be placed out of reach from prying paws. If you're not keen on swapping your full-size tree for a smaller one, consider getting a few small ones and placing them around the house.
What's better than one big Christmas tree? A small one in every room!
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8. Limit the damage.
If keeping pets away is too difficult, it's time for crisis management.
Ensure your Christmas tree has a sturdy base to keep it firmly in place on the ground.
Switch standard ornament hooks for stiff wire that can be twisted and secured safely on the branch.
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