Skip to main content

How to stop your cat from destroying the Christmas tree

'Tis the season for keeping the cat out of the Christmas tree

Two cats in front of a Christmas tree with presents and cat toys
Hucklebarry / Pixabay

As the holidays approach, you’ll probably start decking your halls and home. This annual to-do usually means putting up the Christmas tree. You might invest a lot of time and effort into finding the perfect location for the tree and picking out the best spots for each ornament, but your curious cat can undo all of that work in seconds if he decides to climb the tree.

We’ve all seen the videos that circulate each year of cats decimating Christmas trees, destroying ornaments, and potentially even hurting themselves in the process. Keeping the cat out of the Christmas tree can be a real challenge, but these tips will help both your tree and your kitty stay safe.

Recommended Videos

Put your tree in a secure room

Cat batting at a Christmas ornament on a tree
VagnerRoque / Shutterstock

One of the easiest and most foolproof ways to keep your tree safe from your cat is to put it in a room that you can close off. If you have doors in your living room, a den, or an enclosed office, you might consider putting the tree in that room and leaving the doors closed. When the family’s home and you’re spending time in the room, your cat can come in and join you, but when it’s time for bed, remove your cat from the room and prevent her from going back in.

You can sometimes create this same effect using pet gates. You’ll likely need multiple gates to stack up in the doorway to prevent kitty from simply leaping over them. This method may or may not work, depending on how ambitious your cat is.

If protecting a full-size tree from your cat is difficult, consider getting a smaller tree that’s only a foot or two high. You’ll still be able to decorate the conifer for Christmas, but there won’t be much tree for your cat to climb. Plus if the tree does fall, it won’t endanger your cat. With a full-size tree, you’ll need to carefully plan how you can keep your cat safe

Secure your tree to protect your fir and furry friend

Cat under the Christmas tree
Jenna Hamra / Shutterstock

If you suspect your tree will need to withstand attacks from your cat, then take extra measures to secure it so it stays upright. Invest in a broad, heavy base that stabilizes the tree from the bottom, then create multiple anchor points to secure the tree to the wall and the ceiling.

Putting your tree in the corner of the room can make this easier, since you can attach it to both walls with wire. You may be able to insert heavy-duty screw eyes into the corners or edges of your windowsills, then attach the wire to those screw eyes. This can help conceal the anchors a bit, and it means you won’t have to create holes in your wall. Alternatively, position the tree next to a stairwell, so you can anchor it to the banister.

Carefully choose your ornaments

Cat in Christmas tree
Wirestock Creators / Shutterstock

Choose ornaments that your playful cat won’t easily damage. Look for plastic bulbs, cloth ornaments, and other durable items.  To make the tree less tempting, consider not hanging anything on the bottom foot or so of the tree, so there are fewer fun-looking things to catch your cat’s attention. Have a playful kitten? Then maybe it’s best that those fragile, treasured decorations stay packed away this year.

Make sure to avoid anything that could be toxic or harmful to your cat. Spray snow isn’t a good idea, and avoid tinsel, which can cause intestinal blockages if your feline swallows it. Sweep up pine needles frequently so your cat isn’t tempted to chew on them.

Always supervise your cat

Cat lying underneath a Christmas tree
jhenning / Pixabay

Even with plenty of planning, it’s still important to closely supervise your cat. There are all sorts of dangers that come with the holidays, including your tree, decorations, and the extra food that’s present during parties. Planning ahead and making sure your cat can’t get access to many of these tempting offenses is a good first step in helping to keep him safe, but it’s still important to be aware of what your cat is up to during the holidays.

>With some extra effort, you may be able to protect your Christmas tree from your pet so you can all enjoy it together without worrying about when it will come toppling over.

How to make a cat-friendly Christmas tree

A dog and cat cuddle under a blanket together in front of a Christmas tree and presents
New Africa / Shutterstock

We’ve covered everything not to do, but there’s a lot you can think about to make your holidays pet safe. Consider swapping out ornaments for natural plants, like dried cherries or pine cones (provided your cat won’t try to eat these, too). Instead of fake snow, put up cotton balls or pillow stuffing to add a bit of white flare.

Always use plain water in your tree without any additives. Certain kitties might not be up for any of these accommodations. In that case, try out a paper tree that goes on the wall or a cardboard one with a stand. If you live in the right climate, you can also just decorate a tree outside (use only natural ornaments for this, though).

Of course, knowing your individual animal will enable you to find the best course of action. Adjust as needed to meet your cat’s needs! By following all these tips and sticking with only pet-friendly decorations, everyone in your household will enjoy the season from start to finish.

Paige Cerulli
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Paige's work has appeared in American Veterinarian, Business Insider, Healthline, and more. When she's not writing, Paige…
Can cats get dementia? The answer may be surprising
Understanding the signs, causes, and treatment of this disease in cats
An orange cat at the vet

Dementia is a well-known disease that can affect humans, especially Alzheimer's. If you've watched a loved one go through it, you know how heartbreaking it can be to see someone forget how to care for themselves, significant life events, and the names of their nearest and dearest. You may start to notice a cat display similar symptoms — they're angrier than usual and seem to forget where they are (and where the litter box is).

Can cats get dementia, though? The short answer — unfortunately — is that cats can get dementia. However, many signs of dementia in cats can also indicate another issue, so it's important to work with a vet for an accurate diagnosis. That way, you can make the best decisions for your pet. Still, understanding the signs, causes, and treatment options for cat dementia can empower you to take quick action to keep your cat safe and comfortable.
Can cats get dementia?

Read more
How to pick up a cat: Avoid common mistakes for a calm cat
Here's how to handle a feline for their comfort and yours
A woman wearing a yellow jacket holds a tabby cat while standing outside

Just like people, cats have their own preferences and personalities that make them one of a kind. Some are more outgoing, while others are shy and reserved. Many felines have a favorite cat toy, food, or person, and all cats have an attitude that simply can't be replicated. Cats also differ when it comes to affection and handling, so it can be tricky to know how to approach picking up a cat.
Luckily, we're here to help you learn how to pick up a cat in a way that's stress free for both of you. With just a little thoughtfulness, you'll be able to handle your four-legged friend with ease and confidence whenever you need to. Not only will this come in handy before vet appointments and using the cat carrier, but it could potentially help your cat get more comfortable with affection and cuddling, too!

Do cats like to be held?

Read more
How to train a cat: Secrets to a more obedient and friendly pet
9 tips for teaching your cat tricks
Cat treat for training

You may have heard the phrase "like herding cats," but actually, your kitty can be trained. Coaching your feline will help them out if they need extra stimulation, have a behavior problem, or you hope to better bond with your pet. Don't listen to the naysayers who say you will have trouble getting your animal to listen. With the right approach, you can train a cat almost as well as you can a dog. Still skeptical? Here are our nine tips for how to train a cat.
Why cat training is important

Without enough to do, cats can turn destructive, so you want to get ahead of that and give them a project. Pets that don't get enough stimulation often scratch up furniture, gain weight, and withdraw. The right training can get them to move their little body and work their sharp mind.

Read more