do cats eat christmas trees

Are Christmas Trees Poisonous to Cats? The most common type of trees that are used for the holidays are fir, spruce, and pine. The needles from these trees are all mildly toxic to cats if they eat them. Needles can cause gastrointestinal upset and irritation to the mouth due to the oils.

As the craziest of years begins to draw to a close, people’s thoughts turn to Christmas – and while this year it might look a bit different, there is comfort to be found in traditions and making the festive season as special as possible for the whole family.

Christmastime can be dangerous and stressful if you own a cat. Fortunately, there are lots of things you can do to ensure the safety and happiness of your cat during this holiday season. Continue reading to learn more.

Although Christmas is a fun time of year, your cat may not feel safe with all the lights and festivities. Cats and Christmas can sometimes be a real recipe for disaster, from climbing the tree to the anxiety of seeing relatives and dangerous treats that could end up being harmful. However, it doesn’t have to be! With a little extra attention, you and your four-legged friend can enjoy a joyful and fun time during the holidays.

How to keep your cat safe around your Christmas tree

It doesn’t mean you can’t have a Christmas tree in your home just because they can be dangerous to cats. All you have to do is stay vigilant in case your cat is determined to gnaw on those pine needles.

“Although the risks are minimal, it’s advisable to exercise caution and awareness during the holidays,” Dr. Cunningham said.

According to Dr. Cunningham, you should take precautions to avoid chewing on tree limbs or consuming water from tree stands. Here are some things you can try.

Keep the cat safe away from the kitchen

During the holiday season, there is always a lot of cooking going on, which presents additional risks to your pet. It’s a good idea to keep cats out of the kitchen during the holidays because of things like cooking oil, hot stoves, and clanging pots and pans.

FAQ

What happens if a cat eats a Christmas tree?

Are Christmas trees poisonous to cats? Fir trees are mildly toxic and may produce oils which can cause irritation to a cat’s mouth and stomach, but it’s very unlikely that your cat will eat large enough amounts to hurt themselves.

Why do cats chew on Christmas trees?

“[A Christmas tree] may be the coolest thing they’ve seen all year!” she says. “And as cats, they naturally seek out high places to rest and observe. They’re also attracted to moving and wiggling things, so the moving and shimmering ornaments can look like prey.” OK, we get it—Christmas trees are like catnip to them.

Are cats attracted to Christmas trees?

Whether real or artificial, Christmas trees pose a hazard for your cat. They’re naturally curious about anything bright and sparkly, so your cat will probably want to climb the tree in the corner of the living room! Here’s our tips for keeping your feline friend out of trouble.

How do I keep cats from eating my Christmas tree?

A great tip to keep your cat away from your festive centrepiece is to use orange peel or citrus spray in or around the tree to act as a Christmas tree deterrent. Cats hate the smell of oranges or other citrus fruits so this should stop them from causing any mischief.