How to Make Christmas Decorations Safe for Your Cat (Indoors & Outdoors)

The festive season brings sparkling lights, beautiful ornaments and plenty of cosy decor, but if you share your home with a curious cat, it also brings a few extra safety considerations. Cats love climbing, batting, chewing and exploring, which means many common Christmas decorations can pose risks if not chosen or arranged carefully. With a little planning, you can enjoy a beautifully decorated home that’s both magical and cat-friendly. Here are some essential tips for keeping your indoor and outdoor Christmas decor safe for your feline friend.

Indoor Safety Tips

1. Choose shatter-proof ornaments Traditional glass baubles may look lovely, but they can easily become dangerous if knocked from the tree. Opt for plastic, felt, wood or fabric ornaments instead. Hang any delicate or sentimental items higher up, out of your cat’s reach.

2. Secure your Christmas tree Cats see Christmas trees as personal playgrounds, so make sure yours is anchored well. Use a sturdy base and if possible, discreetly attach the tree to the wall with fishing wire for extra stability. Consider placing the tree away from shelves or furniture to reduce the temptation to leap into it.

3. Avoid tinsel and small loose decorations Shiny tinsel is irresistible to cats, but extremely dangerous if ingested. Swap it for alternatives like ribbon garlands, paper chains or fabric bunting. Make sure any small ornaments, bells or beads are firmly attached and not easily pulled off.

4. Use cat-safe lighting Fairy lights add warmth to any home, but keep wires tucked away or covered to prevent chewing. Battery-operated LED candles are a safer alternative to real candles, eliminating fire hazards and avoiding tempting flickering flames.

5. Keep plants pet-friendly Many popular holiday plants including poinsettias, holly, lilies, and mistletoe are toxic to cats. Choose safe options like artificial versions or cat-safe plants such as rosemary. Always check before introducing any new greenery into your home.

Outdoor Safety Tips

1. Protect electrical cables Outdoor lights come with the added temptation of dangling wires. Use weatherproof cable covers or conduit tubing to keep cords secure and chew-proof. Ensure all lights are properly rated for outdoor use.

2. Choose sturdy outdoor decor Inflatable decorations, dangling ornaments and unsecured decor can cause issues if your cat

likes exploring the garden. Make sure anything you place outside is firmly anchored so it can’t topple, sway or trap curious paws.

3. Avoid toxic outdoor plants If you decorate your garden with festive wreaths or greenery, be cautious of plants like holly and mistletoe outdoors too. Even fallen berries or leaves can be harmful if your cat tends to investigate the ground.

4. Create cat-friendly outdoor zones If your cat has garden access, consider adding safe, cat-friendly features like sheltered spots, a scratching post or pet-safe grasses. Giving your cat an engaging outdoor space may reduce interest in your festive displays.

By choosing safer materials, securing your decorations and being mindful of plants and wires, you can create a festive environment that works for both you and your cat. With these tips, you’ll be able to enjoy a beautifully decorated home without worrying about the extra mischief that comes with the holiday season!