Cats are notoriously drawn to virtually something novel—and that features a newly erected, shining Christmas tree. Only a few minutes of distraction is loads of time for a cat to launch right into a full investigation of the tree and the whole lot on it, and it doesn’t normally finish nicely—for the tree no less than!
Fortunately, there are some methods to maintain the Christmas tree protected from feline claws, however why are cats so drawn to Christmas timber within the first place? It seems that (like most of humankind’s most perplexing questions) the reply to why cats love “all issues Christmas” will be defined by science.
What Science Says About Cats and Christmas Bushes
Mike Delgado, a postdoctoral fellow and cat researcher on the College of Veterinary Medication at UC Davis, explains that something new being introduced right into a cat’s acquainted territory is certain to get them excited. When cats are in acquainted territory, they sometimes wish to examine something new. A Christmas tree usually has irresistible outside smells and bark for a cat to sharpen its claws, so there may be a lot to draw them. Dangling, reflective ornaments and glossy tinsel, plus a great deal of accessible branches, additionally seem like a ton of enjoyable to a cat!
Dr. Lorna Whittemore, a veterinarian at excitedcats.com, agrees. Dr. Whittemore states, “As with people, all cats are people. Some could deal with the tree as if it’s not worthy of their consideration, and others can not simply be deterred from getting right into a tangled mess. Glass baubles, contaminated tree water, twinkling lights, and tempting tinsel are only a few of the potential hazards. The expression of those regular behaviors can, nevertheless, land them in hassle.”
“Cats are additionally naturally inclined to being at a top the place they’ll survey their environment and maintain out of hazard from predators—an indoor tree is usually a fantastic temptation for a cat to indulge on this pure habits,” provides Dr. Whittemore. The intuition of climbing remains to be alive and nicely in domesticated cats, and a Christmas tree geared up with loads of perches and needles is a perfect vantage level and hiding place. The mixture of novelty, toys, and a tall construction to climb, makes Christmas timber the right “dwelling leisure system” for felines.
One other ExcitedCats veterinarian, Dr. Paola Cuevas, agrees. “Cats love climbing; it’s ingrained of their nature! Additionally they love stretching and taking part in with lights and reflections—and a Christmas tree ticks all of the packing containers.”
If there are a number of cats within the dwelling, they will even shortly clamber to mark this territory as their very own by climbing, scratching, and even urinating. As one would count on, this may shortly result in damaged ornaments, snapped branches, and even a toppled tree—all of which will be harmful to cats.
Stopping Cat and Christmas Tree Points
Taking correct precautions over the festive season is necessary, says Dr. Cuevas. “As accountable cat homeowners, our cat’s security is all the time our duty. Each time we carry one thing into their surroundings, we’d like to verify it’s protected for our cats. Cats are all the time investigating, so you will need to assume forward of each potential situation and ensure that something we add is non-toxic for our cats.”
Laying tin foil, carpets, or orange peels underneath the tree could assist deter cats, as will industrial deterrent merchandise or sprays or including clear paneling across the tree. Merely ensuring the tree is as steady and well-secured as potential is one other good thought. Be certain that all electrical wires and lights are lined or out of attain of cats. Cat homeowners are additionally urged to keep away from utilizing tinsel, ribbons, or string, as these are the riskiest decorations on the subject of choking and ingestion. Dried citrus decorations are nice options, as they appear nice and are a pure deterrent to cats.
One other nice thought for cat dad and mom is to go for synthetic timber or tree options so the cat isn’t drawn to the pure scent and texture of an actual tree. With that mentioned, in case you do select to make use of an actual tree this vacation, go for Douglas fir or white pine, as these are the most secure for pets. And, after all, retaining the tree in a room not accessible to the cat is probably going the most secure possibility of all.
