Advent and Christmas preparations are very joyful, but when living with a cat it is important to observe the following precautions.

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Although we might think that cats will peacefully melt into the warmth and softness of the festive season, enjoying the cosy lights with us, it can unfortunately come as a cold shower for the owner if their pet not only fails to slow down and relax, but instead becomes completely overstimulated by the Christmas hustle and bustle. This is entirely understandable, as our purring companions are playful and curious animals, and the Advent period offers plenty of excitement. However, several of these can be dangerous for them.

The festive season offers many kinds of curiosities for curious pets.

During the Festive Season, These Things Can Pose a Danger to Cats

1.) Candles

As the days grow darker earlier, atmospheric candles and tea lights come out, and week by week we light the next flame on the Advent wreath. However, the gently flickering flame can not only evoke calm but also awaken a cat’s hunting instinct. To avoid burns and fire damage, never leave an open flame unattended, even if you only step out of the room for a moment. That is more than enough time for trouble to happen!

A candle flame can tempt a cat to play.

In connection with candles, it is also worth mentioning scented varieties: the smell of some types can be too strong for our pets, as their sense of smell is much more sensitive. If you notice that your cat reacts badly to a scent, it is better not to use it around them.

Dangling baubles, swaying garlands and fairy lights can also be stimulating.

2.) Hanging Decorations

Just like flickering candle flames, swinging garlands, fairy lights and baubles can look like exciting toys in a cat’s eyes. The biggest problem arises if the cat can tear apart a decoration and swallow pieces of it, or if they start chewing on a light string that is plugged in. For this reason, only decorate your home in a way that does not pose a danger to the animal, and if possible, opt for LED light strings instead.

A cake placed in the middle of the table looks beautiful, but in an unguarded moment the cat may have a taste as well.

3.) Toxic Foods and Decorations

Around the holidays, more and more treats accumulate in homes: Advent calendars filled with chocolate appear, serving plates fill up with cakes, and chocolate Santas and wrapped sweets multiply on the shelves. However, due to the theobromine and caffeine content of cocoa, all chocolate treats are toxic to pets, and depending on individual sensitivity, even very small amounts can cause life-threatening conditions. Sugary treats similarly put a strain on a cat’s digestive system, so it is better to store them in sealed containers or decorative jars.

It is also wise to be careful with wrapped Christmas sweets and gingerbread intended for the Christmas tree, and it is safer if they are left out of the decorations altogether.

4.) Toxic Plants

Several festive plants are toxic to our pets, and since cats like to chew on greenery, even a beautiful houseplant can cause problems. These include the classic poinsettia, holly and mistletoe, but the essential oils in pine trees can also cause irritation, while swallowed needles can lead to internal injuries and may even get stuck in their paws. Clean frequently, and if you definitely want to have any of the listed plants at home, place them somewhere inaccessible to the cat.

Festive visiting can be stressful for a cat.

5.) Stress

One of the lovely aspects of the festive season is that friends and relatives visit more frequently. However, your cat may not necessarily appreciate this. To avoid stress caused by strangers and constant comings and goings, provide a calm place for your cat where no one disturbs them. It is also important to be careful that, in an unguarded moment, a stressed (or adventurous) cat does not make a getaway through a door left open. Escaping is much more common during such busy periods.

Always inform visiting guests about the “cat rules”; for example, what the animal must not eat, or that the toilet lid should always be closed – for us this is crucial, as our pet occasionally likes to drink from the bowl…

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