Simple Tips to Make Christmas Safe for Your Cat

Candles are a Christmas staple, but exercise caution when your cat's anywhere near flames or the aftermath. In fact, candles shouldn't be your only concern; your fireplace, decor, and outdoor bonfire are just as paramount. After you extinguish the flame, your kitty will be more than happy to make its way through the ashes — not good and definitely not safe, especially if embers remain underneath. Not only could this endanger your cat, but it could damage your home's interiors as they scurry down the halls covered in soot. Keep the two separate when possible, and always ensure that flames are fully extinguished.

While your dog will go gaga over cushy Christmas sweaters, puppy gloves, and other holiday-themed gear, your cat isn't a fan. Their coat keeps them plenty warm, so there's no need for extra clothes any time of the year. From a feline's perspective, that adorable tree-covered sweater is a stuffy, itchy, and uncomfortable non-necessity. Skip the costumes and allow your cat to savor the season as is.

Cats don't deal well with discomfort; they're loyal to their home turf and prefer things as is, which makes adaptation difficult, so be extra mindful this time of year. Since your cat's used to the people, places, and routines in their day-to-day life, switching it up causes significant stress and anxiety. Strangers scurrying through the house, babies crying, and small children chasing after them are too much for cats, especially kittens. Keep the guest list to a minimum if possible, and while they're around, ensure that your cat has their own piece of paradise with a cozy bed, toys, and some welcome peace and quiet.

While you're scurrying around shopping, wrapping presents, and decorating your abode, it's easy to lose sight of your cat and neglect their needs. Take your cat into consideration and provide them with plenty of attention during this special time. They're not fond of the holiday hustle and just want some special time with you to connect and relax. Make space in your busy schedule for some lap time, nap time, and fun with your feline friend.

If YouTube is any indication, Christmas trees cause concern for every cat owner come the holiday season. You already know how much your cat loves climbing and batting its paws at your twinkling tinsel and shiny ornaments, so always cat-proof your Christmas tree. A great trick is to let the tree stand without decoration so your cat has time to get used to it. Since cats love batting around ornaments, keep those shiny balls higher up or be selective and skip the hanging ball type entirely.

Kids go crazy over their annual photos with Santa, and even dogs can't wait to get in on the action with their own pup-approved pics. Your cat, however? They hate it. Getting the perfect snap involves a lot of things they dislike, from the car ride there to the uncomfortable environment and an unfamiliar stranger. Save your cat the stress and take holiday photos at home.

Lighting timers are your friend and with good reason. Twinkling lights are a wonderful way to show off your holiday cheer, but cats love to chew away at unattended wires and cords. While this is a given, keep them out of the way as much as possible. Since cats love to prowl around at night and when you're not at home, this could be especially dangerous and result in painful electric shock, electrocution, or fire. With a timer set for bedtime, lights shut off simultaneously so your cat doesn't injure themselves or set your home ablaze during the night.

Wrapping the perfect present is tricky, but never leave ribbons and string unattended, even if you're feeling frustrated. Your cat will want to pounce and play with them, and that means they pose potential choking hazards. The same applies when you unwrap gifts or sort through stringy decor. Cats love their playthings, but potential health risks aren't worth it. Use a pet gate or keep the door closed while you handle gifts.

These lush blossoms have a striking aesthetic that puts even Scrooge in the Christmas Spirit. Cats, however, should avoid them at all costs. They're toxic and potentially deadly to cats, so this isn't something to take lightly. If you love a flower-filled atmosphere, swap them out for fake poinsettias, which are beautiful but much safer for Fluffy to fool around with.

Cats are lactose intolerant, so there's an obvious reason to leave these snacks at a safe distance. If you can't put them out without your cat getting into them, skip them or swap them out for something safer. Otherwise, felines will spend the morning with stomach upset and diarrhea — not the best way to ring in the holidays.