Cats are notoriously interested in nearly something novel—and that features a newly erected, shining Christmas tree. Just a couple of minutes of distraction is loads of time for a cat to launch right into a full investigation of the tree and all the pieces on it, and it doesn’t normally finish properly—for the tree not less than!
Luckily, there are some methods to maintain the Christmas tree secure from feline claws, however why are cats so interested in Christmas bushes within the first place? It seems that (like most of humankind’s most perplexing questions) the reply to why cats love “all issues Christmas” could be defined by science.
What Science Says About Cats and Christmas Trees
Mike Delgado, a postdoctoral fellow and cat researcher on the School of Veterinary Medicine at UC Davis, explains that something new being introduced right into a cat’s acquainted territory is bound to get them excited. When cats are in acquainted territory, they usually need to examine something new. A Christmas tree typically has irresistible out of doors 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 appear to be 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 might deal with the tree as if it’s not worthy of their consideration, and others can’t simply be deterred from getting right into a tangled mess. Glass baubles, contaminated tree water, twinkling lights, and tempting tinsel are just some 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 hold out of hazard from predators—an indoor tree is commonly a terrific temptation for a cat to indulge on this pure habits,” provides Dr. Whittemore. The intuition of climbing continues to be alive and properly in domesticated cats, and a Christmas tree outfitted 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 bushes the proper “house leisure system” for felines.
Another ExcitedCats veterinarian, Dr. Paola Cuevas, agrees. “Cats love climbing; it’s ingrained of their nature! They additionally love stretching and taking part in with lights and reflections—and a Christmas tree ticks all of the containers.”
If there are a number of cats within the house, they may also shortly clamber to mark this territory as their very own by climbing, scratching, and even urinating. As one would count on, this will shortly result in damaged ornaments, snapped branches, and even a toppled tree—all of which could be harmful to cats.
Preventing Cat and Christmas Tree Issues
Taking correct precautions over the festive season is vital, says Dr. Cuevas. “As accountable cat homeowners, our cat’s security is at all times our duty. Every time we deliver one thing into their atmosphere, we want to ensure it’s secure for our cats. Cats are at all times investigating, so you will need to suppose forward of each doable state of affairs and ensure that something we add is non-toxic for our cats.”
Laying tin foil, carpets, or orange peels beneath the tree might assist deter cats, as will industrial deterrent merchandise or sprays or including clear paneling across the tree. Simply ensuring the tree is as steady and well-secured as doable is one other good thought. Make certain 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 in relation to choking and ingestion. Dried citrus decorations are nice alternate options, as they appear nice and are a pure deterrent to cats.
Another nice thought for cat mother and father is to go for synthetic bushes or tree alternate options so the cat just isn’t interested in the pure scent and texture of an actual tree. With that stated, should 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, in fact, retaining the tree in a room not accessible to the cat is probably going the most secure possibility of all.
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