Are you putting a tree up this year? Those gorgeous centerpieces always make homes look super cozy and welcoming. Unfortunately, our feline pals have a hard time resisting them. You really can’t blame Fluffy: to her, the tree is a huge cat tower hung with fun toys. A Norwalk, CA vet offers some advice on keeping your cat out of the tree in this article.

Choosing the right spot for the tree will definitely go a long way. Don’t put it too close to something that Fluffy can use as a kitty launchpad, like a desk or sofa.

Cats loves to bat at dangling objects. Only put a few decorations on the bottom of the tree. Put the majority of them on the top branches.

Bribery is often quite effective on kitties. Give your pet some of her gifts early. If Fluffy is busy ‘stalking’ her new catnip mouse, she may leave the tree alone.

We don’t have to tell you what happens when cats get even a little bit tired: naptime! Take time to play with your feline friend every day. Even a few minutes of pouncing and jumping will give your pet a great kitty workout. After that, Fluffy may decide that napping under the tree is more appealing than trying to climb it.

Consider getting an artificial tree. These are much harder for kitties to climb (and therefore, topple) than real ones are. Plus, you get to reuse them!

Sometimes an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Secure the treetop to the wall or ceiling with twine or fishing wire.

Another thing you can try is restricting your furball’s access to the tree. A puppy pen may work for this. It won’t look as nice, but it may do the job.

You probably can’t train Fluffy to do tricks, aside from ‘Nap’ or ‘Look Cute!’ However, you may be able to teach her to leave the tree alone. When your pet approaches the tree, do something that will annoy her, but not scare her. You can clap your hands, sound an alarm, or stomp your foot. Taste deterrents may also help.

Happy Holidays from all of us here at Ashton Animal Hospital, your Norwalk, CA pet hospital. Please contact us anytime!