Dear Miss Behavin’: I adopted my cat Ginger a few months ago and now that December is here I would like to get a Christmas tree. I am nervous that Ginger will want to climb the tree and play with the decorations. What can I do to keep my tree and Ginger safe? 

The holidays can be tricky with pets, since decorations can end up becoming a pet’s new and exciting toy. Here is some advice on how to cat-proof your tree!

Cats are attracted to anything shiny and dangly, so leave tinsel off of the tree this year. Tinsel is also a hazard if swallowed and could cause intestinal blockage. Hanging decorations will be tempting to Ginger, so hang them high enough where Ginger can’t reach them. Twist ties are more secure than normal ornament hooks, so even if she does get to them they won’t fall off the tree immediately. Double check the ties are very secure, as they can be a hazard if swallowed.

Cats instinctively want to climb. Get a sturdy and secure tree stand so if Ginger is feeling feisty and tries to explore, the tree won’t fall over. Make sure Ginger has plenty of other perches around so she can get the climbing she needs and won’t be tempted by the tree. You can also put boxes and other obstacles under the tree so it’s harder for her to get to the base of the trunk.

If Ginger still wants to explore, you can put up a small exercise pen or fence around the tree to make it even more difficult for her to get to it.

Set time aside for playtime with Ginger so she gets her wiggles out. If she’s tired from playing she’ll have less interest in playing with the tree!

One last note: Christmas tree water preservatives have high concentrations of toxic fertilizer that are dangerous for animals if ingested. Your pet might be interested in drinking the water from the tree, so make sure the water is safe for them! Here’s to a safe and happy holiday!