The Christmas season comes accompanied by lights, shiny spheres and colorful decorations that transform any home into a festive atmosphere. However, For those who live with cats, these decorations can become a real headache.
Felines’ natural curiosity leads them to investigate everything that hangs, shines or moves, prompting them to jump, scratch or even try to climb the Christmas tree. This scene, common in thousands of homes, can put both the decoration and the safety of the animal at risk.
If you also face this problem at home every December, animal welfare expert José María Zamora, known on social networks as “Chemanimals”, shared a homemade trick that has gone viral for its effectiveness in keeping cats away from the Christmas tree without resorting to aggressive chemicals.
Originally from Culiacán, Sinaloa, Zamora has established himself as one of the most influential veterinarians in Latin America. With more than 10 million followers on TikTok, she has gained recognition for explaining, in a clear and accessible way, animal care recommendations ranging from domestic pets to wildlife. His kind and direct way of teaching has made him a reference for pet owners throughout the region.
During the Christmas season, when thousands of families decorate their homes and the cats’ antics multiply, The specialist decided to share a homemade and safe repellent, ideal for scaring felines away from the tree without putting their health at risk.
The homemade trick to keep your cat away from the Christmas tree
The veterinarian recommends preparing a natural repellent with common and easily available ingredients. This spray works because it combines odors that are unpleasant for cats, without causing them any harm.
Necessary ingredients:
* 4 tablespoons dried and crushed mint leaves
* Grapefruit peel
*The juice of a whole lemon
* A splash of pine-scented cleaner
* Enough water to fill a spray bottle
Preparation and use mode:
1) Place all the ingredients in a spray bottle.
2) Add water until full.
3) Let the mixture rest for at least two hours so that the aromas integrate.
4) Spray the repellent all over the Christmas tree, especially on the lower branches and areas where your cat usually approaches.
Citrus odors, along with mint and the aroma of pine, generate an aromatic barrier that discourages the feline from approaching. According to “Chemanimals”, this method is safe, economical and very effective, as long as it is reapplied every few days to maintain its effect.
Other tips to protect your Christmas tree from pets
In addition to homemade repellent, there are simple strategies that can help you maintain harmony between your Christmas decorations and your cat’s natural curiosity. These are some of the most effective recommendations:
1) Choose a strategic place
The location of the tree can make a difference. Avoid placing it near furniture, shelves, armchairs or any surface that could serve as a trampoline for the cat. to jump directly towards the pine tree.
The ideal is to place it in a clear corner and, If possible, place a small decorative barrier around it to make access difficult.
2) Correctly stabilize the base
Accidents happen in seconds when a cat decides to jump over the tree. To avoid dangerous falls:
* Use a heavy base.
* Make sure the tree is well anchored.
*If artificial, check that each section is firmly assembled.
This not only protects the decoration, but also the physical integrity of your pet.
3) Decorate smartly
Ornaments hanging from low branches are an irresistible temptation for cats. To minimize risks:
* Place the most striking and fragile ornaments at the top of the tree.
* Avoid small or very delicate pieces in low areas.
* Opt for spheres made of resistant materials, such as plastic or wood.
* Avoid garlands that are easy to move, as they can encourage play and cause dangerous pulling.
4) Protect lights and cables
Cables may be attractive to some cats, who They tend to nibble or play with them. To avoid accidents:
* Use protective cases or clear plastic covers.
* Secure the cables with tape to the floor or wall.
* Never leave lights on unattended.
In addition to preventing tripping, these measures reduce the risk of electric shock or fire.
Maintain the Christmas magic without sacrificing your cat’s safety
With a little strategy and this homemade trick, it is possible to enjoy a beautiful, stable Christmas tree free of feline mischief. The key is to understand the cat’s natural behavior and adapt the decoration so that it does not represent a risk or dangerous temptation.
This way, you can live a peaceful holiday season, taking care of both the aesthetics of your home and the well-being of your pet.
Keep reading:
* How much do natural Christmas trees cost in New York
* How much do natural Christmas trees cost in New York
* Christmas tree: Natural or artificial? Discover the best option for the planet