We've probably all seen the bizarre new half Christmas tree Argos is selling - what do you think, would it stop your cat climbing it? Here's some other top tips and ideas on how you can forgo the Christmas tree, and turn your home into a feline-friendly festive delight...
Christmas can be a stressful time for a lot of us, but even more so when the season presents potential dangers to our furry friends. Christmas trees may look beautiful, and most cats are naturally attracted to these sparkly, scent-filled plants, but they can be dangerous.
Felines can harm themselves trying to climb them, get trapped in lights, get injured by breaking ornaments, and become ill by eating pine needles. Why not forgo the tree this time? Instead, trust our handy tips to transform your home this Christmas.
Make it yourself
Why not make your own tree from festive fabrics? Here’s how:
1. Cut two large triangles from green fabric and stitch together, adding wadding in between.
2. Adhere ribbons at regular intervals horizontally across the tree.
3. Cut circle, heart, or paw shapes from different fabrics and stitch in between the ribbons to create baubles.
4. Attach thin ribbons to the top of each bauble and stick to the tree so they’re ‘hanging’ from the horizontal ribbons. Add bows to the top.
5. Cut a star from gold fabric, back with interfacing to stiffen, and sew to the top of the tree.
Festive focus
You can easily create a beautiful, festive home without a Christmas tree. However, if you’re missing the focal point that a tree creates, why not try an alternative, such as a wooden version? This oak tree is perfect — £139 from www.ab-furniture.co.uk or call 01235 412 080.
Wall decals also add instant festive cheer, and can’t be knocked over by furry paws! This ‘Christmas Wishes’ sticker packs a punch — it costs £14 from www.oakdenedesigns. com or call 01306 621 262.
Christmas countdown
Spruce up your space with a decorative advent calendar. This cute design from Hobbycraft comes plain, so you can embellish it as you like and fill it with your (or your cat’s!) favourite goodies. £15 from www.hobbycraft. co.uk or call 0330 026 1400.
Big impact
Avoid small ornaments that could be swallowed. Instead, try larger decorations to make a statement. Why not hang traditional stockings along the mantelpiece? You can even include one for your feline friend. We love this purrfect stocking — £19.99 from www.wayfair.co.uk or call 0800 169 0423.
Winter warmer
Add festive flair to your rooms with fun Christmas prints and wintry fabrics. Cushions, throws, blankets, and table runners in Yuletide prints and colours can instantly transform your home. Not only will they be safe for cats, but will also keep them cosy this winter. We love this printed cat cushion, £12 from www.marksandspencer.com
Dazzling decorations
Try using Christmas ornaments made from wood, fabric, or plastic, rather than fragile materials like glass that can shatter. No kitty wants glass in their paws! You don’t need a tree to hang them on — display them on strings of ribbon attached to your walls or suspend from doorframes or hooks.
Can’t bear to part with your baubles? Place them in clear Mason jars and seal shut — you can even add beads or fairy lights for added sparkle. These decorations look gorgeous and keep your breakables safely away from furry troublemakers!
TOP TIP: Use LED candles instead of real ones to prevent burned noses.
Safety first
Many festive plants are poisonous to cats. Avoid holly, ivy, mistletoe, lilies, and poinsettias. Why not try faux versions instead? Alternatively, you could hang traditional decorations like paper chains or handmade snowflakes. Stay away from tinsel, though. Cats are often attracted to the sparkle, but it can be extremely dangerous when ingested.
Top three cute kitty decs
1. Cat personalised Christmas decoration, £14 from www.notonthehighstreet.com/missshellydesigns
2. Cat in a Christmas hat bell decoration, £2.95 from www.cozyglow.co.uk
3. Hanging cat ornament by The Three Peaks Company, £6.50 from www.etsy.com
Tree talk
If you’re really set on a Christmas tree, there are a few things you can do to keep your cat, and your home, safe:
- Opt for a faux tree. Real pine needles can be dangerous when eaten.
- If possible, place the tree in a room that you can shut your cat out of.
- Secure the tree to the wall or ceiling to avoid it toppling over.
- Keep trailing wires covered so your kitty can’t chew them, and choose battery-powered lights to be extra safe.
- Avoid putting tempting ornaments near the bottom of the tree, and steer clear of edible decorations like chocolates.
- Place repellents around the tree, such as citrus peel or oil.
- Offer your cat something more interesting, such as a new toy or cat tree.
TOP TIP: Keep indoor kitties safe by decorating outside!
These glitter reindeer Christmas figures are available from £89.99 from www.lights4fun.co.uk
Let us know how you decorate your house at Christmas, by commenting on our Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram - we'd love to hear from you.