Christmas trees and Ragdoll cats can be a recipe for disaster. There are things you can do to make sure your Christmas tree is Ragdoll cat friendly. First, make sure you are using the largest tree base possible. Choosing the widest tree base will help keep the tree from tipping over if your Ragdoll cat tackles it. Another trick to keep your Christmas tree from tipping over is to tie fishing line to a hook in your ceiling and secure the top of the tree.
Another area of potential problems is the water in your tree stand. Christmas tree stands are filled with stagnant water that contains plant fertilizer and bacteria. If your Ragdoll drinks this water your cat could become very ill. One trick you can use to keep your Ragdoll cat away from the tree altogether is to use a metal foil tree skirt. Metal foils in a variety of colors are available from your local hobby store and cats strongly dislike the feel of metal foil on their paws.
When you decorate your Christmas tree avoid using glass balls or tinsel. Make sure your ornaments are not small enough to be a choking hazard for your Ragdoll cat and hang them on higher branches that are out of your cat’s reach. Tinsel is hazardous to small animals because it can cause intestinal blockage that requires surgery. You may want to avoid using Christmas lights that twinkle as these are mesmerizing for many cats and could result in chewing or tackling your Christmas tree.
To prevent your Ragdoll cat from chewing cords you should treat with bitter apple spray or an aerosol antiperspirant. Finally, when wrapping gifts, avoid using ribbon or streamers. Ribbons and streamers have the same allure as tinsel and if your cat swallows them it could create a painful intestinal blockage. Your family veterinarian is also an excellent resource for tips on cat proofing your Christmas tree.
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