It seems obvious, yet it’s often recommended to let your cat get used to seeing the Christmas tree. More specifically, this means leaving your tree as is for several days before you start decorating it. Once the introductions are over, your cat should be more at ease with the idea of ​​its environment being slightly transformed. If, during these few days, you see it trying to climb the branches, don’t hesitate to gently guide it down, showing it that it’s not meant for that. A little tip from an ELLE.fr writer: “When my cat misbehaves, like scratching next to the designated scratching post, I move it to a more comfortable spot and pet it. It’s a way of showing it that some rooms in the house are better than others.”

Choosing the right location for your Christmas tree

The cat can also play a role. Cats are adventurous felines, so they won’t hesitate to jump, climb, and explore every nook and cranny to get their hands on the tree. It’s therefore advisable to place it up high, making sure it’s securely fastened so it doesn’t fall. For the base of the tree, opt for a bag, a pot, or a well-filled container rather than a simple log or plastic stand. This will weigh down the Christmas tree and prevent it from tipping over. Also, remember not to place Christmas baubles and other decorations too close to the ground. The cat might play with them, giving you very little peace and quiet.Finally, you absolutely must be careful with electrical cables. Christmas lights are not without risk. They can electrocute your cat, who might simply want to play and chew on the wires. Therefore, you must carefully plan your decorations to avoid any accidents. As the insurance company’s website states: “If a glass ornament on the tree falls and breaks on the floor, remember to sweep and/or vacuum very thoroughly. These decorations usually break into tiny pieces that scatter very easily. The risk is not only a cut, but also, and perhaps more importantly, that your pet might ingest them.” From the lights themselves to the material of the Christmas ornaments and the tree, every detail must be considered.

Using a repellent: a home remedy to prevent cats from climbing the Christmas tree
It’s no secret that cats are extremely sensitive to smells. Certain perfumes and scents have the power to make them feel safe, while others repel them. To minimize the risk and prevent your cat from getting too close to the Christmas tree, you can use a natural repellent. You can opt for essential oils of citronella, mandarin, or orange peel. Prepare a spray by mixing a few drops of essential oil with water (about 3 to 5 drops per 500ml of water) and spray your tree before decorating it. More specifically, anything citrus-based will help keep your cat away from the tree. You can then decorate your tree with DIY garlands made from dried oranges or beautifully cut clementine peels.