As lovely as Christmas is for us, it can be stressful for the pets in our homes. Especially, for cats. These creatures like to stay in their territory and that means your home - which they think they own and you live rent-free in.
With Christmas and other holidays, we might move around furniture or add new items in the house and those things can cause stress for your cat - who is happiest when things are familiar. Some cats are social and might appreciate the extra attention but there are others who would rather be by themselves - not unlike the grinch.
Cats are curious and can not only damage your decorations and preparations for the festivities but they could get injured as well. From decorations to trees to Christmas treats - everything is potentially hazardous for cats.
As a cat owner, you can take certains steps to ensure your Christmas is cat-proofed and you don’t have to run to the emergency vet services because a member of your family has eaten the wrong thing. These measures are worth taking for their physical and mental health.
So, here are eight tips to cat proof your home during Christmas and saving it from your crotechty creatures:
1. Cat proof your decorations
Tinsel and other decorations can be dangerous for your cat. If they ingest it, they would have to be taken to the vet. Shards of plastic and glass can cause internal damage to your pets when ingested.
2. Avoid real Christmas trees
There is a small chance that pine needles could cause internal damage, according to Blue Cross UK. They can also get into eyes or ears, but there is a rare chance of it.
3. Cover exposed wires
Try and cover exposed wires if you are using electric lights. You canuse cardboard tubes or plastic to cover them up. You could also shut your cat out of the area with the lights.
4. Plenty of hiding space
Make sure that your cats have plenty of hiding space because Christmas can be stressful for them with many guests around and the hustle bustle. You can set up a space for them away from the public areas of the house. Not all cats are social and would prefer some solitude.