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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.

Poison Prevention Week starts March 20th. This is a very important topic for anyone with pets. There are over 232,000 cases of pet poisonings in the US every year! Our furry friends don't know what is and isn't safe for them, so you'll need to take some precautions to keep your beloved pet safe. A Washington DC vet lists some ways to prevent pet poisoning in this article. Keep Cabinets Locked Many toxic chemicals and household products are stored in cabinets, often underneath sinks. Keeping these locked is a simple step that can prevent tragedy. Keep in mind that your four-legged friend doesn't have to actually eat or drink these substances. Because most animals lick themselves clean, they only need to walk through it or get it spilled on their fur to ingest it. Choose Non-Toxic Plants Plants are one of the most common culprits when it comes to pet poisoning. While there are many that are dangerous to all pets, others are more toxic to some animals than to others. For instance, lilies are extremely dangerous to cats, while Sago palms are a huge risk for dogs. Check the ASPCA site here for a list of safe and unsafe plants. Know The Warning Signs Although the signs of poison ingestion can vary, depending on the pet and the type and amount of substance involved, there are some common red flags to look for. These include vomiting, drooling, lethargy, agitation, restlessness, trembling, collapse, unusual vocalizations, and diarrhea. Pale gums are also a warning sign, as is a rapid heartbeat or shallow breathing. Cats may withdraw, while dogs may pace or whimper. It’s worth noting that while these things can be indicative of many medical issues, they should always constitute a call to the vet. Understand The Dangers It's also important to know what is and isn't poisonous. Some things, such as household chemicals, antifreeze, and rodenticides, are well-known. Others? Not so much. For instance, many people don’t know that a single grape or raisin can be extremely dangerous to dogs. Medication is also a common source of poisoning. Ask your vet for more information. Training This one applies more to dogs, of course. However, consider teaching Fido to Leave It. This simple command could help prevent tragedy! Do you have questions about your pet's health or safety? Contact us, your Washington DC animal clinic, today!

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