Dear Dr. John,
We are placing up our Christmas tree and our kitten, who isn’t fairly a yr previous, is fascinated with the lights and the entire decorations. We have heard all kinds of horror tales about cats and vacation bushes and ornamental gadgets so what do you counsel we do to keep away from issues? He appears fairly content material toying with the decrease branches of the tree. We need him to take pleasure in Christmas with the remainder of the household. What do you suggest we purchase him for his presents? — M.C.
Dear M.C.,
The tales you’ve got heard are actual. Cats do prefer to get into issues and Christmas bushes are icing on the cake for them! Cats like to climb, and a brand new tree could pose a enjoyable problem for him that can lead to the tree coming tumbling down making a large number, however extra importantly, creating the doable danger of {an electrical} fireplace. Make certain the tree is properly balanced and secured so it can’t be toppled over.
The tree has new smells that appeal to the cat, and all of the trimmings could cause challenges. Lights can break, shedding glass and have electrical publicity. Ornaments are inviting however may also be knocked down and break. Tinsel is harmful in some ways particularly if ingested resulting in gastrointestinal points and doable intestinal injury necessitating doable surgical procedure. With presents come strings, ribbons, and bows and all of those could cause points within the mouth if caught below the tongue or different points within the abdomen and intestines like tinsel can. Tree water within the stand could cause vomiting so make sure to cowl that tree base.
Other issues to look at for are different decorations and crops. Lilies, mistletoe, and hollies with their berries can all be extremely poisonous if chewed on or ingested. Poinsettias are much less poisonous however could cause vomiting and points. Consider spraying him with water if he will get too shut or doing no matter is required to get him away from the tree. Provide distractions to your cat with toys that roll and a scratching put up. These would make for excellent presents. Merry Christmas to your loved ones, the cat, and all studying this column!
Dr. John de Jong owns and operates the Boston Mobile Veterinary Clinic.He could be reached at 781-899-9994.
Source: www.bostonherald.com”