!Header Buttons Right Side

301-864-3164

Tips for Catproofing Your Tree

December 1, 2020

The holidays are coming up quick! Are you putting up a tree this year? If so, your frisky feline friend will be watching with bright eyes and a bushy tail. Read on for some tips from a Washington DC veterinarian on keeping your playful pet out of the tree. 

Fishing Line

If you think that there’s a chance Fluffy may actually climb the tree and knock it over, take steps to secure it. One thing you can do is attach the top of the tree to the walls or ceiling with fishing line. It won’t show, but the extra support might help keep the tree standing. 

Decorate Wisely 

Kitties tend to be drawn to shiny things. They also can’t resist batting at anything that’s dangling down. Try to keep the most tempting ornaments–including anything breakable–on the top part of the tree. Just put a few sturdy decorations on the lower branches.

Artificial

Another thing that may help is getting an artificial tree. Fluffy may still go for some of the ornaments, but she won’t have much luck climbing it. Plus, you get to reuse it, so you’ll also save some money in the long run.

Training

We know, Fluffy is notorious for doing what she wants, when she wants. However, you can teach your furball that the tree is off-limits. Whenever your pet gets too close, do something that will startle her. Sound an alarm on your phone, bang two pots together, or just clap your hands. Chances are, your feline buddy will hightail it for her favorite hiding spot. 

Bribery

Does your kitty keep going for the tree, no matter what you do? You may need to try bribing her. Get her some new toys, and perhaps a cardboard box. Or, better yet, buy or make Fluffy a cat tower. The point is to make the rest of the room so much fun that your furry friend forgets about the tree entirely. 

Kitty Playtime 

You may also want to try playing with your feline friend. If you tire Fluffy out with a fun session of C atch The Red Dot or Jump On The Wand Toy , she’ll be more interested in napping beneath the tree than in trying to topple it.

Please do not hesitate to reach out if ever we can be of assistance. As your Washington DC veterinary clinic, we’re here to help.

Entertaining Your Aging Feline Friend

Is your kitty a furry, meowing senior? Fluffy is an adorable and fun pet through

Common Pet Care Mistakes

About sixty-six percent of American households include animal companions. Or, to put it another way,

Kitten Care Tips

Are you considering adopting a kitten? Perhaps your own feline pal has recently given birth,

Petproofing Tips: Keeping Your Frisky Buddy Safe

Did you know that poisonings are one of the top reasons for urgent veterinary care

Helping Multiple Cats Get Along

Are you considering adding a second—or perhaps third—kitty to your household? Cats are small, but

Common Pet Care Mistakes

Pets are more than furry little roommates: they are important parts of our lives and

Easter Safety For Pets

Easter is a seasonal milestone, a time to gather with family as the seasons change.

Keeping Fido Safe On St Pawtrick’s Day

St. Patrick’s Day may not be the biggest holiday of the year, but it still

Celebrating K-9 Veterans

Celebrating K-9 Veterans  March has arrived, along with several pet-related holidays. Working dogs get the

Caring For Your Dog’s Paws

Does your canine friend know any cute paw tricks? Fido’s furry feet are not only