The holiday hustle and bustle has officially begun! Your feline buddy will no doubt be underfoot as you prepare for the year’s festivities. (Then again, Fluffy may prefer to supervise from across the room, or just quietly judge you between naps.) Kitties somehow manage to be more adorable than ever at this time of year. However, they also get extra mischievous. A local Chesapeake, VA vet offers some holiday cat care tips in this article.

Decorate Carefully

Fragile ornaments, tinsel, ornament hooks, pine needles, ribbons, and anything with ropes or thread are all hazardous to kitties. Candles are another concern. Finally, many seasonal plants, such as ivy and poinsettia, are toxic to cats. Keep your feline pal in mind as you decorate. 

Gifts

Don’t forget to get Fluffy a few things! Toys and catnip are of course the quintessential kitty gifts. Your furball may also enjoy a new scratching post, bed, or even a cat tower. Of course, you don’t have to break the bank getting your furball’s presents. There are plenty of cute homemade options you can make. This can be a good project for kids. Look online for safe, simple ideas and instructions.

Tree

Fluffy’s favorite holiday tradition may very well be wreaking havoc on Christmas trees. To keep yours standing, avoid hanging a bunch of shiny ornaments at kitty level: that’s just too tempting. Put most of the decorations—including anything sharp or fragile, on the top half of the tree. A sturdy base is also a must.

Food

While dogs are usually more at risk of eating unsafe foods, this is a concern with kitties too. Some furballs will eat anything! Take care not to let Fluffy have anything dangerous, such as meat on the bone, grapes or raisins, avocado, onion, chocolate, caffeine, or raw dough. Ask your vet for advice.

Reduce Stress

Kitties are very much creatures of habit. Fluffy can get very stressed out by any changes to her routine or environment. Take time to just relax with your furry buddy. A purring cat, a good book or movie, and a few special treats can make for a pretty perfect winter night!

Take All The Photos

Cat photos are always cute, but they are extra adorable around the holidays. Don’t forget to snap some cute pictures of your feline overlord!

Happy Holidays! Please contact us, your Chesapeake, VA animal clinic, anytime!