3 Ways To Cat Proof Your Christmas Tree - WikiHow

Skip to ContentQuizzes

• PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
• QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
• EDIT Edit this Article
• EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games ForumsArts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and Garden Relationship QuizzesCars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and Style Sports and FitnessComputers and ElectronicsHealthPets and Animals TravelEducation & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and Religion Work WorldFamily LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationships Youth
• LOG IN

  Log in

  Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. Facebook Google wikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
• RANDOM

• Home
• Random
• Browse Articles
• TrendingNew
• Quizzes & Games
• All QuizzesHot
• Love Quizzes
• Personality Quizzes
• Fun Games
• Dating Simulator
• Learn Something New
• Forums
• Courses
• Happiness Hub
• Explore More
• Support wikiHow
• About wikiHow

• Log in / Sign up

Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow

• Categories
• Holidays and Traditions
• Christmas
• Christmas Trees

How to Cat Proof Your Christmas Tree Download Article Co-authored by Molly DeVoss

Last Updated: June 5, 2025 Approved

Download Article

• Decorating the Tree
|
• Adding Extra Protection
|
• Choosing and Securing the Tree
|
• Video
|
• Q&A
|
• Tips
|
• Warnings
|
• Things You'll Need

|Show more |Show less X

This article was co-authored by Molly DeVoss. Molly DeVoss is a Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist (CFTBS), a Certified Cat Behavior Consultant (CCBC), a Fear Free Certified Trainer (FFCT), and the Founder of Cat Behavior Solutions. Molly specializes in using positive reinforcement to modify and prevent unwanted behaviors in cats and reduce cat shelter surrender. Molly has sat on the Dallas Animal Advisory committee since 2013 and was voted one of the Top 12 Extraordinary Cat Behaviorists of 2020 by Catpetclub.com. She is certified by both the Animal Behavior Institute and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. She is also the host of the weekly podcast Cat Talk Radio. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. This article has 12 testimonials from our readers, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 1,387,998 times.

Is your cat smitten by your Christmas tree – so intrigued that they clamber onto it, knocking needles, decorations, and tinsel everywhere? Or perhaps they have even come close to knocking over the entire tree? Keeping your curious cat out of the Christmas tree is a wise idea for everyone involved. This will help avoid injury to your cat as well as the potential for further damage to the items near the tree and people in the vicinity of it.

The next Christmas is Friday, December 25, 2026. There are 356 days left!

Steps

Method 1 Method 1 of 3:

Decorating the Tree

Download Article

1. 1 Consider not decorating the tree initially. The rationale behind this is to provide an adjustment period for the cat, as well as a possible lesson for your cat in leaving the tree alone.[1] Letting the cat adjust to the new tree should help deter the cat from trying to mess with it.[2]
   • Fill a spray bottle with water and hang on to it.
   • Set the tree in place, then let the cat in to investigate but hover in the background with the spray bottle, just in case.
   • If your cat shows any signs of wanting to leap at or on the tree, spritz them lightly with water on their back and give a stern "NO!"
2. 2 Decorate the tree with your cat firmly out of the way. It's hard enough fiddling with trees, decorations, and breakable ornaments without also having felines running up past you and chasing after the objects as you're gingerly hanging them up. Your cat will assume this is a game you intend for it to play, so it's just easiest to keep the cat out of the way until everything has been set up.
   • While decorating, if your cat is about, resist the urge to tease her with decorations as you're adding them.
   • Doing so will only encourage the cat to see the glittery items as toys and things to swat any time it pleases.
   Advertisement
3. 3 Choose ornaments less likely to be attractive to your cats. Some ornaments will prove irresistible because they sparkle, glow, dangle, and shimmer. Blander, less shiny or flat matte objects which don't dangle much will have less allure for your cat. Felt, paper, and plain decorations might be the best choice. Avoid anything that dangles a lot, jumps about, or spins.[3]
   • Try plastic ornaments instead of glass, as they are less breakable. Try to find shatter-proof bulbs and ornaments.
   • Twist the wire ornament hook around the branch instead of just hanging from the hook shape provided.
   • Never put catnip-stuffed items on the tree. That's just asking your cat to mess with the tree.
4. 4 Consider not having certain decorations at all. Tinsel is potentially hazardous for cats who tend to chew and swallow things they find lying around.[4] Ribbons and other items that dangle from the tree can also be potentially harmful to your cat. Artificial snow is toxic and should not be used when you have pets and small children.
   • Tinsel is not recommended for households with cats; it can cause choking or other internal problems if swallowed, such as intestinal blockage.
   • Don't use real candles on a tree when you have pets.
   • They may knock the candle over with a quick swipe of the paw and start a fire.
   • If you like decorating the tree with food, be careful what you add.
   • Chocolate of any kind is toxic for cats and the odor may be tempting to them.
   • Lots of sweets aren't healthy for cats either.
5. 5 Place decorations that are especially delicate high up on the tree. For ornaments that are more breakable, enticing, or dangerous, try positioning them in the top two-thirds of the tree. Your cat is less likely to reach for higher parts of the tree, which will help to keep these items safe.[5] [6]
   • Some people choose to not even decorate the lower third of the tree at all. That way, there is nothing of interest at the cat's eye level.
   • Some cats cannot help themselves and will climb up high whatever you do.
   • If your cat is like this, avoid having any delicate or potentially dangerous items on the tree at all.
   • Tinsel, if used at all, should be placed up high as it is likely to be dragged off by a curious cat.
   • Tinsel can be very harmful if ingested and get caught in the stomach and intestines.
6. 6 Attach ornaments to the tree securely. Use metal hooks that clamp to the tree so that they cannot be simply pelted or lifted off. Avoid using string, rubber bands, or anything else dangly to attach the ornaments with. When you've attached the decorations, give them a tug to check that they are securely fastened to the tree and don’t fall off easily.[7]
   • Hang ornaments by using quality wire ornament hangers.
   • Use a pair of pliers to clamp the hook part around the branch so that it doesn't dangle and cannot be simply pulled off.
Advertisement

Method 2 Method 2 of 3:

Adding Extra Protection

Download Article

1. 1 Use repellant sprays. Spray your Christmas tree with a cat-repellant spray that you can purchase at your local pet supply store. This will deter your kitty without leaving a noticeable odor to human noses. Or, you might try a citrus spray, as cats are repelled by citrus odor too.[8]
   • Apple cider vinegar can also be sprayed as a cat repellant.
   • If it's a plastic tree, shake a small amount of Citronella oil into a bottle of water and mist it on to the tree.
   • The smell will be unpleasant to the cat but fresh and citrus-like to you.
   • Spray some pine cones with Citronella and pile them around the base of the tree.
   • Cats do not walk on pine cones!
   • Pine cones also have the same effect in the base of your houseplants.
   • You could also place orange peels under the tree to make your cat less likely to go near it.
   • Cats also dislike the smell of rotten apples, but then you probably won't like that smell much either!
   • Try spraying your tree with a little orange juice. Cats hate the smell of citrus, so orange juice can act as a deterrent. Slices of orange can also be used for decoration.
2. 2 Be careful with electrical wires and lighting. Be sure to tape down excess wire and to make it too hard for the cat to reach the power point or where the cords join. Do not leave any wires dangling – wrap wire around the base of the tree rather than having it dangling anywhere. It can also be helpful to cover exposed wires in wire covers or piping to prevent the cat from chewing them.[9]
   • Cords can also be coated with cat-repellant sprays. Just be careful not to spray too much liquid on the electrical cords – a light misting will do.
   • Plug the tree lights into a short indoor extension cord and tape the plug into the socket with electrical tape.
   • Simply unplug the lights from the extension cord to turn them off.
   • Consider using cords that shut off if damaged.
   • Always turn off Christmas tree lights when there is no responsible adult in the room to keep an eye on them.
3. 3 Distract your cat. Place toys the kitty likes in the same room as the tree and place his/her scratching post reasonably near to the tree.[10] These are the cat’s things and encourage the cat to use them rather than hang around the tree. Burn your cat’s extra energy by engaging in playtime. This will leave the cat with less energy to attack the tree.[11]
   • Keep all of the cat’s water, food, and beds in a different room. This will make the cat less tempted by the tree.
Advertisement

Method 3 Method 3 of 3:

Choosing and Securing the Tree

Download Article

1. 1 Choose a safe location for the tree. There should be plenty of room around the tree so that it isn't too near items that are easily climbed by cats. If there are tempting shelves or furniture pieces to act as launch pads for your cat, it will be very likely to jump off them and land on the tree. Keep the tree in a clear space that makes jumping either difficult or unlikely.[12]
   • If possible, place the tree in a room where you can shut the door at night to keep the cats away.
   • You could anchor your tree to the wall for a little extra security. Use a screw and thin wire, so you won't be able to see it.
2. 2 Consider the size of the tree. A small tree will be safer than a larger tree because there is less weight to crash down if your cat decides to climb it and things go horribly wrong. For a kitten, a tabletop tree might be a suitable choice until it grows up and becomes a bit calmer.[13]
   • If the tree is shorter than 6 feet (180cm), use duct tape to tape the legs of the holder to a piece of wide plywood and put the whole tree on a short but very sturdy table.
   • This keeps the tree above the level of the cat and the cat will likely be less interested.
   • Ensure that the tree is nowhere near any launching points for an opportunistic jump.
3. 3 Select a strong and unwavering base for holding the tree. Always use caution when selecting a tree base and get one that is guaranteed to stay firmly in place if the tree is knocked over. This is as important for the safety of children as it is for pets.[14]
   • Even an artificial tree should have a firm and solid base.
   • Use a tree skirt to hide all ugly but practical safety fixes at the base of the tree, including electrical items.
   • As well as a solid base, anchor the tree to the wall or ceiling to help prevent it from toppling over should your cat land in the tree or pull on it.[15]
4. 4 Decide whether you want an artificial or real tree. Real Christmas trees are potentially more dangerous to your cat than artificial ones. This is because the needles on a real tree are sharp and can pierce or puncture the skin of an overly curious cat, while the pine needles themselves are irritating to mildly toxic if chewed (depending on the species of tree used).[16]
   • A chewed artificial tree isn't healthy for your cat to ingest either, so balance the choice of tree type with how you intend to keep the tree safe from your cat.
   • If you do choose a real tree, also choose a water container for the tree that is completely inaccessible to the cat.
   • If your kitty tries to drink from it, there is a risk of poisoning.
Advertisement

Community Q&A

Search Add New Question

• Question My cat ate tinsel off the Christmas tree and has thrown up 7 times. Also, she tries to make a bowel movement but can't. What should I do? Community Answer Please take your cat to the vet. It may need surgery to clear a bowel obstruction if the problem does not clear on its own. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 20 Helpful 151
• Question What if my cat bites a wire on my Christmas tree? Community Answer If the wire is ingested, take the cat to the vet immediately. The content of wires are dangerous and sharp. However, if it's a plugged-in wire, unplug the wire immediately to prevent the cat from being shocked. After this, consider Bitter Apple spray to deter your cat going forward. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 6 Helpful 38
• Question Are plastic ornaments safe for my kitten? Community Answer Yes, they are much safer than glass. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 11 Helpful 52

See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement

Video

Reader Videos

Tips

• Try not to put ribbons on your presents, as this will tempt your cats even more. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• You could also add extra tape to the corners of your presents, so kitties won't tear the wrapping paper off as easily. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Don't place the presents before the Christmas tree as the gift wrappings may tempt cats. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

Tips from our Readers

The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.

• Consider putting up a garland running around the room at ceiling height to hang precious ornaments from a "horizontal tree," and just have cheap and cat-proof ornaments on the tree itself!
• If your cat manages to climb your Christmas tree, do not yell or hit him/her. Cats are not like dogs, and they do not respond well to this type of discipline.

Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review! Advertisement

Warnings

• Don't spray a tree that has electrical items on it. Water and electricity have a habit of short-circuiting into a house fire. Thanks Helpful 15 Not Helpful 0
• When you lock the cats up for the night, try to shut the door to the room with the tree. You'll sleep better knowing they're not swaying from it during the night. Thanks Helpful 12 Not Helpful 3
• Be extra vigilant with kittens. Keep them from chewing on the extension cord and shocking themselves. Anything that wiggles and jiggles will attract their attention. Thanks Helpful 11 Not Helpful 3
• Never leave a kitten in a gift box or carrier under the Christmas tree as a gift; this is dangerous and cruel. A kitten should be a gift the whole family agrees upon and is willing to contribute to the care of. On Christmas morning, make sure the kitten is in a safe, supervised location, and then carry it in your arms when you bring it in as a gift. Thanks Helpful 13 Not Helpful 9
• Aspirin is often added to tree water. This is toxic to your cat. Add sugar instead but still ensure that your cat cannot reach the water because it is likely to have pine sap, preservatives, pesticides, and other toxic elements in it. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 1

Advertisement

Things You'll Need

• Cord ties, cord covers
• Bitter Apple, citronella oil, apple cider vinegar, etc.
• Spray bottle and water
• Things to tether or anchor the tree
• Solid, heavy tree base
• Proper metal clamp hooks and pliers
• Safe decorations
• Cat distractions

You Might Also Like

How toPrevent Cats from Eating Plants How toCat Proof Your Computer How toKeep a Cat out of Potted Plants How toPrevent Cats from Digging Up Houseplants How toCare for a Christmas Tree How toPut Up an Artificial Christmas Tree How to Keep Cats Off Your Car: Natural Repellents & Preventative Solutions How toGet Your Cat to Stop Knocking Things Over How toKeep a Cat Off a Stove How toGet a Cat out of a Tree The Easiest Ways to Prevent Your Cat from Chewing on Wires How toKeep Cats Off Furniture How to Keep Cats Out of Your Garden What Bonsai Plants Are Safe for Cats? (And Which Ones to Avoid) Advertisement

References

1. ↑ Molly DeVoss. Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist & Certified Cat Behavior Consultant. Expert Interview
2. ↑ https://www.cathealth.com/how-and-why/how-to-keep-your-cat-off-the-christmas-tree
3. ↑ http://www.vetstreet.com/our-pet-experts/how-to-decorate-a-stylish-cat-friendly-holiday-home
4. ↑ Molly DeVoss. Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist & Certified Cat Behavior Consultant. Expert Interview
5. ↑ Molly DeVoss. Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist & Certified Cat Behavior Consultant. Expert Interview
6. ↑ https://www.cathealth.com/how-and-why/how-to-keep-your-cat-off-the-christmas-tree
7. ↑ https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/how-to-catproof-71558
8. ↑ http://www.petmd.com/cat/seasonal/evr_ct_cats_and_christmas_trees
9. ↑ http://www.cat-world.com.au/keeping-cats-off-christmas-trees.html

More References (7)

10. ↑ Molly DeVoss. Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist & Certified Cat Behavior Consultant. Expert Interview
11. ↑ http://www.vetstreet.com/dr-marty-becker/how-do-i-keep-my-cat-out-of-the-christmas-tree
12. ↑ http://www.catbehaviorassociates.com/how-to-keep-your-cat-away-from-the-christmas-tree/
13. ↑ http://www.catbehaviorassociates.com/how-to-keep-your-cat-away-from-the-christmas-tree/
14. ↑ https://www.pets4homes.co.uk/pet-advice/10-tips-to-help-make-your-christmas-tree-cat-proof.html
15. ↑ Molly DeVoss. Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist & Certified Cat Behavior Consultant. Expert Interview
16. ↑ http://www.cat-world.com.au/keeping-cats-off-christmas-trees.html

About This Article

Co-authored by: Molly DeVoss Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist & Certified Cat Behavior Consultant This article was co-authored by Molly DeVoss. Molly DeVoss is a Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist (CFTBS), a Certified Cat Behavior Consultant (CCBC), a Fear Free Certified Trainer (FFCT), and the Founder of Cat Behavior Solutions. Molly specializes in using positive reinforcement to modify and prevent unwanted behaviors in cats and reduce cat shelter surrender. Molly has sat on the Dallas Animal Advisory committee since 2013 and was voted one of the Top 12 Extraordinary Cat Behaviorists of 2020 by Catpetclub.com. She is certified by both the Animal Behavior Institute and the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. She is also the host of the weekly podcast Cat Talk Radio. This article has been viewed 1,387,998 times. 11 votes - 75% Co-authors: 131 Updated: June 5, 2025 Views: 1,387,998 Categories: Featured Articles | Cat Proofing and Cat Safety | Christmas Trees | Christmas Article SummaryX

To cat proof your Christmas tree, try spraying it with a citrus spray, since cats normally hate the smell of citrus. Before decorating the tree, allow it to sit in the room for a few days so your cat can adjust to having it in the room. Then, choose ornaments that are not shiny, dangly, or sparkly, since these will seem like toys to your cat. Instead, use soft, matte ornaments and use wire hangers to attach them securely to the tree. Additionally, avoid tinsel and ribbons, because they’re choking hazards for cats and can cause intestinal blockage if swallowed. For tips on how to secure your tree so it won’t tip over if your cat jumps on it, read on! Did this summary help you?YesNo

In other languages Italian Dutch Russian French Portuguese Chinese Spanish Indonesian

• Print
• Send fan mail to authors

Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 1,387,998 times.

Reader Success Stories

• 

  Anonymous

  Dec 15, 2016

  "This article taught me that live Christmas trees are toxic to cats. I also did not know how dangerous artificial..." more

More reader stories Hide reader stories Share your story

Did this article help you?

Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Molly DeVoss Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist & Certified Cat Behavior Consultant 11 votes - 75% Click a star to vote Co-authors: 131 Updated: June 5, 2025 Views: 1,387,998

Anonymous

Dec 15, 2016

"This article taught me that live Christmas trees are toxic to cats. I also did not know how dangerous artificial..." more

Cheryl M.

Nov 9, 2018

"I had no idea cats dislike citrus odors. I have a fake tree; my cat has pica and eats the needles (and rubber..." more

Orrester Shaw

Nov 25, 2016

"I found this information to be very helpful. This will be the first year our cat will be exposed to our Christmas..." more

Anne Blake

Dec 8, 2016

"Spraying the tree with citronella and putting orange peel on the tree was helpful. Going to try both of these! My..." more

Jill Smith

Jan 28, 2017

"Oh my, such good advice! I've always struggled with my cats trying to climb the Christmas tree. But now it..." more Share yours! More success stories Hide success stories

Quizzes & Games

Christmas QuizTake QuizDoes My Cat Love Me QuizTake QuizWhat Kind of Cat Am I QuizTake QuizBedroom Aesthetic QuizTake QuizWhat Color Cat Would I Be QuizTake QuizWhat Animal Am I QuizTake Quiz

You Might Also Like

How toPrevent Cats from Eating PlantsHow toCat Proof Your ComputerHow toKeep a Cat out of Potted PlantsHow toPrevent Cats from Digging Up Houseplants

Featured Articles

What Are the Korean Animal Face Types? (And Which Type Do You Have?)Being the Little Spoon While Cuddling: Is It Better Than the Big Spoon?115+ Funny “Get Well Soon” Messages to Make Someone Laugh110+ “Fun Facts” for Interviews, Introductions, & IcebreakersHow Long Would You Survive In A Zombie Apocalypse?How to Roast Someone in a Rap Battle (Plus the Best Bars of All Time)

Trending Articles

How Many People Had a Crush on Me This Year? Find Out HereWhat Song Was #1 On My Birthday?Best Personality TestDo I Have Common Sense QuizCompatibility Test10 Ways to Get Rid of a Hickey Fast

Featured Articles

What Turns a Girl On? 31 Things to Try on Your PartnerLove AnalyzerSending Your Sweetie a Love Note? Here are 200+ Romantic IdeasHow toExercise Your BrainHow toBe a Fun Person to Hang out WithWhat Does Your Morning Routine Say About You?

Featured Articles

How toDevelop Productive HabitsHow toPractice Self CareWhat Song Matches Your Life Right Now?Your 2026 Vision: What Does Next Year Hold?Understanding the Most Attractive Face Shapes (& Determining Your Own)Type A B C D Personality Test

Watch Articles

How to Deep Clean Your Kitchen Sink (& Keep It Clean)How to Curl Your Hair: 8 Easy & Quick WaysHow toThicken Sauce with FlourHow to Brighten Up White Shirts and Other GarmentsHow to Cook White Rice without a Rice CookerHow to Clean Out the Inside of a Glass Bottle (With or Without a Brush)

Trending Articles

What Am I Craving QuizHow toLose Belly Fat in 2 WeeksHow toKiss PassionatelyWhich Hogwarts House Do You Truly Belong In?Toxic Family TestDaily Horoscope (All Signs): What Do The Stars Predict Today?✩⟡˚₊‧

Quizzes & Games

Impossible English TestTake QuizHow Good Are My Survival Instincts QuizTake QuizWhat Crystal Do I Need QuizTake QuizWhat Tattoo Matches My Personality QuizTake QuizWhat's Your Red Flag QuizTake QuizCan You Spot The False Climate Claims QuizTake Quiz

• Categories
• Holidays and Traditions
• Christmas
• Christmas Trees

wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.

• Home
• About wikiHow
• Experts
• Jobs
• Contact Us
• Site Map
• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell or Share My Info
• Not Selling Info
• Contribute

Follow Us

×

Get all the best how-tos!

Sign up for wikiHow's weekly email newsletter

Subscribe You're all set! X --595