Why Cats Love Christmas Trees and (How to Keep your Cat Away from your Christmas Tree)

We all love Christmas trees but what we fail to notice is, so do our cats. You probably have a Christmas tree all set up and decorated. But, does your cat know how special that Christmas tree is?

For cats, this seems like a new giant toy which they will not mind playing with and in the long run they may end up tearing apart your most beloved holiday decorations. Unfortunately, this is the reality of countless cat owners during the holiday, which leaves them asking; Why do cats love Christmas trees? How can I keep my cat away from my Christmas tree?

To begin with, your cat loves your Christmas tree because cats love to hide and climb. Cats are designed climb things. This is proven all the way back to ancient history. If your cat is used to climbing, he/she definitely will be fond of your Christmas tree since cats like to be outside and trees remind them of the outdoors. Some will even spend most of their time relaxing under the tree.

What’s more, cats love changes to their environment and they assume the Christmas tree is for them. They can’t help but notice you brought something new into their territory. Curiosity drives them to investigate and they discover new exciting things from the tree and get attached.

Last but not least, when you set up decorations, whether it is lights or ornaments, cats will think they are toys. This is especially an issue with shiny ornaments as they reflect light well and draw the attention of cats quickly. Christmas trees provide a playground opportunity for cats to have fun.

Beyond the charm and liveliness of cats around Christmas trees, there can be a danger of cuts from broken glass ornaments and shock from chewed lighting wires. So how do you keep them away?

Purchasing or making a tree skirt/collar

You can shop for or make a tee skirt that works by creating a barrier so your cat doesn’t climb the tree. Also, you may well invest in cat-friendly trees or the ‘half’ Christmas trees with branches that starts several feet off the ground that cats can’t reach and be mischievous.

Using safe cat repellents

With cats unable to stand many odors, you can spray recommended scents directly on the Christmas tree or using treated cotton balls on pine cones and stuff them around the tree. Cats will resent such smell and most likely avoid the tree.

Limiting ornaments and lights to top of the tree

This dissuades the cat from the urge of climbing to reach the ornaments since they are out of reach. You also want to secure the decorations with firm strings or wires instead of hooks.

Don’t add/overdo accessories that make the tree more striking as this attracts the cat to play with the tree.

Clearly, it can be challenging to promote a peaceful co-existence between cats and Christmas trees. Fortunately, it is possible with some small adjustments to ensure both you and your cat enjoy a great festive season.