The Christmas tree looks beautiful and sparkling… until your cat decides it’s the perfect place to climb and play. For cats, climbing trees is simply second nature. But how do you make sure your Christmas tree stays upright and your decorations survive the holidays? With these practical tips, you can enjoy a safe and cat-friendly Christmas.

An artificial Christmas tree is often the best choice for cat owners. Cats, just like us, love the scent of a real pine tree. That smell invites scratching, climbing, and nibbling. Artificial trees don’t have a scent and are also harder to climb, which automatically makes them less appealing to your cat.

Do you prefer a real Christmas tree? Then choose a thin, slim one. Cats love to hide among branches. If they can’t do that, they often lose interest in climbing the tree as well. Even the softest little fluff ball carries an ancient hunting instinct within. Catching prey isn’t just in a cat’s mind — it’s in their very fibers, an built-in engine that occasionally starts to purr.

You can make your Christmas tree less comfortable for your cat:

- Wrap aluminum foil around the lower branches or the trunk. This works very well, as cats dislike both the sound and the texture.
- If possible, choose a Scots pine. This type of tree has thicker, sharper, and stiffer needles, making climbing far less pleasant.

Cats dislike citrus scents. Lightly (and carefully) spray the lower part of the tree with citrus oil, or incorporate dried slices of orange or lemon into your decorations. You can also place them around the base of the tree to help keep your cat at a distance.

Don’t place your Christmas tree next to a windowsill, cabinet, or sofa. The fewer jumping opportunities there are, the less likely your cat will see the tree as a climbing route.

Place toys and catnip as far away from the Christmas tree as possible. By offering your cat an attractive alternative, you shift their focus and help keep your tree safe.

Met deze tips geniet je van een gezellige kerst, zonder vallende ballen of een omvergetrokken boom.