Pets are part of the family, and that means they will also be involved in Christmas celebrations, even sometimes having a stocking of their own! However, they may be quite curious about Christmas decorations, especially artificial Christmas trees. This means you have to be extra careful when putting up your tree and any other Christmas decorations.
Choose artificial Christmas trees
Artificial Christmas trees are less harmful to pets because the needles are less sharp and won’t fall off. Real needles can also be dangerous to pets if swallowed.
Don’t decorate straight away
The best thing to do with any new ornament or feature such as artificial Christmas trees is to let your pets get used to them first. Consider putting them up but not decorating straight away so you can see how your pet reacts to them.
Consider plastic Christmas decorations
Artificial Christmas trees are generally safer for pets but just in case they do knock them or become interested in the branches, plastic baubles and decorations are safer as they are less breakable.
Avoid some Christmas decorations
Some Christmas decorations such as tinsel are hazardous to cats and dogs, so it is best to avoid this on your tree, especially low-hanging branches. Other things to avoid include Christmas tree chocolates, as these can easily be sniffed out.
Secure the tree
Securing the tree against a wall or on a table will ensure it is less likely to be knocked over. Another idea is to get a gate, like a fire gate, to keep your tree safe from pets and vice versa.
