The holidays are officially upon us! It’s always nice to reconnect with friends and family, and enjoy seasonal meals and festivities together. Our feline pals also love this time of year. There’s certainly plenty of opportunity for treats, playtime, and, of course, kitty mischief. A San Antonio, TX vet offers some seasonal care tips for people with frisky cats in this article.
Nothing really brings out a kitty’s mischievous side like the Christmas tree. You really can’t blame your furry friend for being interested: as far as Fluffy is concerned, the tree is a giant cat tower hung with toys! There are ways to make the tree a bit less appealing … or at least, increase the odds of it staying upright. Get a steady base, and use clear fishing line to secure the tree top to the wall or ceiling for extra support. We also recommend decorating the lower branches sparingly.
Many of our feline buddies love eating plants. Unfortunately, several popular holiday plants, such as holly, ivy, mistletoe, and poinsettia, are toxic to kitties. Even plants that normally should be safe can become dangerous if they have been treated with things like pesticides or are decorated with small objects. Check the ASPCA site here for more info.
Keep your pet’s in mind when you’re decorating. Anything small or sharp is dangerous for Fluffy … which only increases the chances of her wanting to play with it. Items with ropes or cords, such as ribbons, tinsel, garlands, and lights, present choking and entanglement risks. Candles are also unsafe. Ask your vet for more information.
Don’t forget to get Fluffy a few things! Toys are purrfect gifts for cats. You can’t go wrong with a kitty classic, like a fuzzy mouse, but you can also try a newer option, like a remote-controlled squirrel. (Tip: give your furry pal some empty boxes once everyone has opened their presents.)
One thing that may be helpful is distracting Fluffy … or, to put it another way, bribing her. Give your playful pet some of her gifts early. A new catnip mouse may actually be more fun than a Christmas tree ornament. It may also help to tire your feline friend out with a fun play session.
Happy Holidays from North Star Animal Hospital, your San Antonio, TX pet hospital. Please reach out to us anytime!