Christmas Tree Safety for Dogs and Cats

A Christmas tree is the centerpiece of the season — and, to a pet, a fascinating new jungle of things to chew, knock over, and drink. A little prevention keeps both the tree and your pet safe.

The biggest hazards, in order: tinsel (which cats swallow and which can cause a deadly intestinal blockage), tree water (often full of preservatives and bacteria), glass ornaments that shatter, and chewed light cords. Skip the tinsel entirely, cover the water reservoir, and put breakable ornaments up high.

Anchor the tree to the wall, because a climbing cat or a zooming dog will test its balance. A gate or pen around the tree is the simplest full solution for determined pets.

When the tree is up, give pets their own holiday enrichment — a new chew toy or cat tree goes a long way toward keeping them off the real one.

People ask

Is real tree water dangerous for pets? It can be, especially with preservatives. Use a covered stand and keep pets away.

Why is tinsel so dangerous for cats? It's thin and shiny, so cats swallow it, and it can knot the intestines — a surgical emergency.

How do I stop my cat climbing the tree? Anchor the tree, block access, and offer an appealing cat tree as an alternative.