Other species of pine tree, however, particularly Norfolk pine, house pine and Australian pine, are toxic to cats. The Holly Dazzle Tree Cats love to climb into the tree and peer out at everyone from their new safe hiding spot. While we are on the subject of Christmas trees, also consider the tree water. Christmas can be a hazardous season for pets, especially cats who can’t resist the tree and other holiday plants, many of which are poisonous. Unfortunately, this dangerous situation is probably not what you had in mind when you set up your tree. Christmas Cactus. Set the tree up away from heat sources such as radiators or vents and windows as these locations will dry the tree out faster, causing it to lose more needles. Pesticides, fertilisers and tree preservers can leech out of the soil when the tree is watered which can pose a danger if the cat drinks the contaminated water. Are trees dangerous to dogs and cats? The cactus is long-lived and very easy to care for. A Christmas tree can look like the ultimate toy to a cat: something to climb on that’s covered in shiny things to play with, break, and eat—not to mention a water bowl, toilet, and scratching post in one! Cat Up a Tree . Mine seem determined to flower near the end of each year, no matter how they've been treated during the rest of the year. During the Christmas season, our home is filled with shiny baubles and decorative ornaments that can pose a serious risk to our pets. Even non-toxic Christmas trees still pose a risk to cats. Christmas Cactus (which actually isn't even a cactus) isn't toxic to pets, but the fibrous material can cause digestion issues if your pet chews on it. The fir tree oils can irritating to the mouth and stomach, causing excessive drooling or vomiting. Christmas trees aren’t a hazard to your cats and dogs by being poisonous, but the RSPCA advise that your pets only be allowed around the tree when supervised. But, if your pet nibbles on your plant, no matter what type, be sure to contact your veterinarian or animal poison control for advice. Add Christmas lights deep inside the Christmas tree, not only does this reduce the risks of a cat chewing on the wire, but it looks prettier if you can’t see the wires. These include the Nordmann fir, Douglas fir, and Balsam fir. Christmas can be a hazardous season for pets, especially cats who can’t resist the tree and other holiday plants, many of which are poisonous. Skip to Content. It’s because live trees — like some other holiday plants — *link to holiday safety tips piece* — can potentially be toxic to pets. Cat Vet: NancyH, Cat Health, Behavior, Care Expert replied 14 years ago. The oils produced by some real Christmas trees are also mildly toxic if consumed, causing minor irritation to a pet’s mouth and stomach. There is little information regarding the toxicity of pinus species, therefore it is recommended that pet owners avoid these trees. Secure the tree to a wall, to do this, make a sling of strong fishing wire around the tree and secure to a hook in the wall. What about the water in the tree stand that your pup slurped up? “If consumed in larger amounts, however, they could cause blockage of the intestine.” Glass ornaments are fragile and bright baubles tend to … Amaryllis Toxic To Dogs. Small ornaments can be swallowed and cause a gastrointestinal obstruction. The pines of most Christmas trees are not toxic and better yet, most cats won’t ingest any. At the end of the day, your cat is going to be curious by this newfound tree sitting in your home. NancyH, Cat Health, Behavior, Care Expert. Christmas trees are considered mildly toxic and consuming the tree’s needles can be very dangerous for your pets. Show More. Yes. Now, most cats aren’t going to find the taste of pine or fir to be appealing, but it likely takes a nibble for them to figure that out. Home; Resources. Christmas trees are also poisonous to cats and dogs due to the chemicals in the tree water. Call animal poison control if you suspect your pet has eaten something toxic. You’re right, it might! Fir, spruce, and pine are the most common type of Christmas trees, these three types consist of a number of different species. It could be harmful to cats and dogs if they drink the water. But you should still keep an eye on your cat near the tree. Live Trees: Fir, spruce, and pine trees make excellent Christmas trees, but their oils can irritate your pet’s mouth, leading to excessive drooling or vomiting. Avoid dampening your holiday cheer with an emergency veterinary visit by following these tips: When in doubt, check out the ASPCA’s list of toxic and non-toxic plants before adding greenery and bright blooms to your home. Mistletoe A cat in a Christmas tree really can be a hilarious holiday sight — until it's not. Toxicity of holiday plants varies from mild to extreme. Answered in 37 minutes by: 12/18/2006. The toxicity of various plants and flowers can range from mild to severe, depending on the poisonous component of the plant. They may be a potential hazard for inquisitive pets. If so, how? Secondly, why does my cat eat my fake Christmas tree? Nothing smells like Christmas more than a real Christmas tree. This evening, I read a couple of articles online stating that the flocking on trees is toxic to pets!!! Cat behaviorist Pam Johnson-Bennett offers several ways to keep cats and Christmas trees safe this holiday season. I had no idea, and gave it no thought! I purchased a flocked Christmas tree during Christmas in July, on sale. With so many Christmas flowers and plants firmly on the no-no list, many families wonder if having a Christmas tree in their home is safe for their pets. One potential risk to cats is tinsel which most homes use to decorate their Christmas tree. “Are Christmas trees poisonous to cats?” “Cats and Christmas trees – a recipe for disaster.” “Can cats and Christmas trees co-exist?” It’s enough to bring on a moggy migraine. Is a Christmas cactus poisonous to cats? Of all the plants on this list, this one is actually the safest. One of the things that really signals Christmas is here, is putting up the Christmas tree and decorations. 1. Are flocked trees safe for pets? There are many potential dangers to cats at Christmas time, from food which can harm them to common indoor plants. We all get on very well together. Christmas lights can cause electrocution and tissue damage if the cat chews through the wire. Dr Leonie Richards, Head of General Practice at the University of Melbourne’s U-Vet Veterinary Hospital, says cats and Christmas decorations have always been a recipe for mayhem. Eating other indigestible Christmas decorations can cause intestinal blockage, also requiring surgery. Mistletoe and Cats. Pesticides, fertilisers and tree preservers can leech out of the soil when the tree is … Christmas trees present a dangerous temptation to cats. During the holiday season, you’re likely overwhelmed by your to-do list—picking the perfect gifts, cutting down the most beautiful tree, and baking mouth-watering goodies to share. When you bring the tree home, saw 1 inch off the base which will help the tree to take up more water and shed fewer needles. I really think this information should have been shared. And it's not only attractive, it's also very dangerous for them, as it can easily cause a linear foreign body digestive obstruction. Generally speaking, Christmas trees pose little risk for dogs and cats. Outfitted in sparkling lights, shiny baubles, and at the perfect height for climbing or chewing, many Christmas trees have met their fateful end at the paws of a pet. The tree needles are not easily digestible either; possibly causing GI irritation, vomiting, or puncture. Christmas trees and decorations can be an attractive hazard for many pets. Add plastic ornaments to the bottom of the tree and more delicate ones higher up. Christmas trees for cat owners can be a nightmare – especially if your cat likes to climb! Real trees can be great, but pine needles can be dangerous for cats who love to chew on foreign objects. Here’s how to have a cat-proof Christmas tree. I really think this information should have been shared. Any leftover wire between the bottom of the tree and the plug can be covered in clear plastic tubing. 2 Cats can get hurt, sick, or worse if they eat treated tree water, tinsel, pine needles, or glass ornaments. Christmas Trees and Decorations. Preservatives, pesticides, fertilizers and other agents, such as aspirin, are commonly used in the tree water to keep the tree fresh. Undoubtedly the star of the festive season, Christmas trees can be dangerous to your cat because of their needles. Submitted: 14 years ago. Also be wary of using any fertilisers or plant food on your tree if it’s potted, as many are toxic to cats and can seep into watering trays. Beyond logistical hassles, Christmas trees pose another issue. It's a … Christmas cactus is not poisonous for humans, dogs, or cats. Other holiday plants that are poisonous to cats According to The Spruce Pets, Mistletoe and Holly are also poisonous to cats when you decorate with the real deal. Avoid these four most dangerous plants when decorating for the holidays: You may wonder why the poinsettia is not listed as a toxic holiday plant. Pine needles can puncture intestine of cats and dogs if ingested and cause liver damage or death. The fir tree oil, if consumer by your cat, can cause mouth and stomach irritation. The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Secure well so that they can’t be batted off. Luckily, non-toxic Christmas plants are available. Consider a fake one. I had no idea, and gave it no thought! Keep an eye on your Christmas tree. Poinsettias, or Christmas Stars A very popular decorative plant at Christmas because of their pretty, brightly colored leaves, poinsettias can give cats and dogs digestive problems and irritate their skin. Unplug lights from the wall when not in use. I had no idea, and gave it no thought! Imagine if you came home one day and there was a mini statue of liberty sitting in your living room. In cats, ataxia has been noted. (adsbygoogle=window.adsbygoogle||[]).push({}), Julia Wilson is a cat expert with over 20 years of experience writing about a wide range of cat topics, with a special interest in cat health, welfare and preventative care. Their now two cats, sugar and spice, love to climb the christmas tree every year and nestle in its branches to watch the lights. Christmas trees are considered to be mildly toxic. Live Christmas tree can be also toxic to our pets at home. Christmas cactus is non-toxic to cats although the Pet Poison Helpline does say that mild nausea, vomiting and diarrhea can occur in some cats. … Are the needles your kitty chewed on toxic? The level of poisoning is also related to the amount ingested. Are Christmas trees poisonous to dogs and cats? Keep Your Furry Friends Safe With This Guide . Christmas trees indoors can be toxic to pets and children - what to avoid in your home ... Pine needles, which fall under and around the Christmas tree, can also get stuck in dog and cat paws. Ingestion of it causes serious intestinal problems that usually require surgery. Christmas trees. But, too much chewing can lead to a foreign body obstruction if ingested. Full author bio Contact Julia, About    Privacy policy    Disclaimer    Contact    Sitemap Copyright © Cat-World.com - All Rights Reserved, Christmas tree safety for homes with cats. Potential Threats By Christmas Tree. Not toxic, but shouldn't be consumed. She enjoys photography, gardening and running in her spare time. Introduce your cat to your fake Christmas tree. Is a Christmas cactus poisonous to cats? All cat parents should know the most common plants that are poisonous to cats. However, it's a very toxic plant for cats (and dogs) due to the presence of the chemical lycorine. As a cat person who has had everything from fake to real trees, I’d like to shed some light on the subject and give you some ideas as to what to expect and how to handle your cats being around fake Christmas trees. Chinaberry Tree (Bead Tree, China Ball Tree, Paradise Tree, Persian Lilac, White Cedar, Japanese Bead Tree, Texas Umbrella Tree, Pride-of-India) | Scientific Names: Melia azedarach | Family: Meliaceae Go for smaller. The answer is one big NO! In most cases, popular Christmas tree species, such as blue spruce and Douglas fir, are not poisonous to cats, though ingesting sharp needles can wreak havoc with a cat's digestive system. If ingested, they can pose a serious health risk. There’s nothing quite like heading out on a chilly. This includes the decorations on the Christmas tree, but also the tree itself and other Christmas plants. There's a lot you need to know to make things go smoothly with your new friend. Also, tree water often contains preservatives, pesticides, fertilizers other agents, such as aspirin to keep the tree fresh. A pet would have to ingest a massive amount of this plant to cause poisoning, and most pets won’t eat a large enough amount because of the irritating taste and feel from the sap. But young cats, and especially indoor cats, may through curiosity or boredom try chewing houseplants – so they are most at risk of poisoning. Needles aren't the only toxic concern around a live Christmas tree. Of all the plants on this list, this one is actually the safest. no where in reach – Cats will not have access to it. I could keep my cat Mia downstairs for the whole of Christmas. Christmas trees and decorations can be an attractive hazard for many pets. If you're concerned, the best way to prevent your cat from being poisoned is simply to not have lilies plants in your home or garden. There are a couple of precautions that you should take to keep your favorite feline from spending your Christmas bonus on veterinary medical bills. These are the only type that I buy. “Angel hair, flocking, and artificial snow are mildly toxic,” according to Peteducation.com. Poinsettias , holly and mistletoe are poisonous. This evening, I read a couple of articles online stating that the flocking on trees is toxic to pets!!! Christmas trees. Read our, The Spruce Pets uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. This isn't an issue as long as they don't eat anything while they are in there, get sap on their fur, or knock the whole thing over. Real Christmas Trees Can Make Cats Sick. The Holly Dazzle Tree Cats love to climb into the tree and peer out at everyone from their new safe hiding spot. Michelle did brought on her a whole decorated Christmas tree but nothing happened to her; the glass spheres, however... She would never leave the floor beyond a favorite empty plant pot, was normally invited on the bed and would not stay. Most people know that ivy and holly are toxic for humans, but are Christmas plants poisonous to dogs and cats? According to the ASPCA plant database, Christmas cactus is not toxic or poisonous to cats, but insecticides and other chemicals used on the plant may be toxic. Are Christmas trees poisonous to dogs and cats? Choose a tree that holds onto its needles for longer. Christmas Cactus (which actually isn't even a cactus) isn't toxic to pets, but the fibrous material can cause digestion issues if your pet chews on it. If your pet is a known chewer, choose artificial plants over real ones. While pets can be attracted to delicious smells wafting from the kitchen, glittering decorations adorning the tabletops, or brightly colored greenery spread throughout your home, many cats and dogs are awed by the star of the show—the Christmas tree. Are Christmas Trees Poisonous to Pets? Mistletoe You can easily find a fake tree that still looks realistic, and you can use it year after year. (And does your cat go … Are fiber optic Christmas trees dangerous to cats if they chew on the ends? 2. One of my cats, not the sharpest tool in the box, never noticed the tree was there till around 12th Night! Some cats regard Christmas trees as a delightful playground. Undoubtedly the star of the festive season, Christmas trees can be dangerous to your cat because of their needles. Julia lives in Sydney with her family, four cats and two dogs. The tree oils can be irritating to the mouth and stomach, which causes excessive drooling or vomiting. Modernized Charlie Brown Christmas Tree: Wrapping to the tree (like rope) -This I can understand and would depend on the cat so I will remove it. References. Sharp needles can cause damage to the gastrointestinal tract if they are swallowed. Are Christmas trees poisonous to cats and dogs? You may have poisonous holiday plants in your house, and you should be careful to make sure the cat doesn't drink from the reservoir around the live tree. I purchased a flocked Christmas tree during Christmas in July, on sale. You’d be curious about it as well. But are Christmas trees toxic to cats? Do not hang chocolate decorations on the tree; chocolate is toxic to cats. If you have a cat, which shows an interest in chewing your Christmas cactus and displays any of the above symptoms we recommend you move the plant to an area (or room) your cat can’t access. That way you can simply shut the door when you're away and guarantee you won't come home to any surprises. Ingestion of it causes serious intestinal problems that usually require surgery. Furthermore, is flocking on Christmas tree poisonous? To keep each member of the family safe this holiday season, employ one of our top tips to keep Fido and Fifi from getting up to mischief this Christmas. Category: Cat. According to vets, cats see Christmas trees as safe places to hide that are filled with toys. Although you may be worried about your Christmas tree’s demise, what about your pet? Christmas trees are considered to be mildly toxic. Stop your cat from … A toxic plant database from North Carolina State University; Toxic plant list for dogs, cats… 3 Use repellent smells and textures to keep your cat away from the tree. Is Christmas tree flocking poisonous to cats? These may have harmful or deadly consequences for cats and dogs (and children) who drink the water! Michelle did brought on her a whole decorated Christmas tree but nothing happened to her; the glass spheres, however... She would never leave the floor beyond a favorite empty plant pot, was normally invited on the bed and would not stay. Before setting up your Christmas card photo of your pet bedecked in antlers or an elf hat in front of the tree, consider these potential hazards: Besides the star attraction of the Christmas season, other holiday plants can take the stage with causing toxicity in your pet. Pet Health Care Guides; Pet Behaviour: the good, the problems and where to get help; 1300 A-Z of the greatest names for dogs . Fir Christmas tree oils can ​also be irritating to a cats mouth and stomach, causing excessive drooling or vomiting if ingested, reports The Spruce. Show Less. Many families are confused about whether having the Christmas tree in the home is toxic to their pets. Sharp needles can cause damage to the gastrointestinal tract if they are swallowed. 5. Toxicity of holiday plants varies from mild to extreme. Additional Tree Safety Concerns. Additionally, most modern Christmas trees are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is toxic to animals and humans alike. Johnson-Bennett notes not only is tree sap is toxic, so are most preservatives you might add to the water, like aspirin. Some can even be deadly. Let’s discover how dangerous Christmas trees are for cats and dogs, and what other holiday decorations may cause toxicity issues in your pet. The number for the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is (888) 426-4435. The level of poisoning is also related to the amount ingested. Cat Up a Tree . Christmas Tree. Tinsel is especially dangerous, and cats love to play with it. I purchased a flocked Christmas tree during Christmas in July, on sale. While you may have visions of stringing popcorn garlands, tinsel strands, and salt dough ornaments along your beautiful fir tree, your pet will be drooling at your feet, eager to make a snack out of the conveniently hung treats. If your feline friend does manage to swallow some needles, they could block, irritate or even puncture their digestive system. Are Christmas trees actually poisonous to cats? Angel hair tinsel (the long, slender strands) is attractive to cats and can cause a severe and life-threatening. Buying the Tree. Even though the question refers to “live” trees, artificial trees, such as the one… 1 Cats can cause a lot of problems if they play with Christmas trees, but you can take precautions. Floral arrangements and festive plants are seen in many homes over Christmas, but there are a large number of plants poisonous to cats. At most, your pet may experience vomiting and diarrhea, but will likely stop eating the plant once she discovers how irritating the sap is to her mouth and throat. The best bet, she says, it to place the tree in a room you can close off when no one is supervising your fur baby. Melissa Murray, RVT, has worked with dogs and cats for over 10 years, focusing on pain management, nutrition, and behavior. Real Christmas trees contain fir tree oil that is considered to be mildly toxic to cats. Others are pretty much uninterested. Even without food-based and shiny decorations, your Christmas tree can pose a threat to your furry friend. Though eating pine needles or sap can cause some gastrointestinal distress at the worst; no, Christmas trees are not toxic to family pets. Although many people believe that poinsettias can kill their pets, that is a rarity. By Kelly Wynne On 12/10/18 at 1:23 PM EST. With the many tasks filling your days, you may not be able to dedicate as much time as normal to your furry friend, allowing your pet to find mischief. Share this conversation. Put the tree into water immediately after the but end has been sawed. Tree preservers can leech out of the tree was there till around 12th Night tempting your pet Christmas time from... Safe this holiday season coastal mountains of Brazil the tree and peer out at from! Avoid tinsel if possible, but there are many potential dangers to cats shiny baubles and ornaments. 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The poisonous component of the festive season, Christmas trees as a playground... Large number of plants poisonous to cats and dogs ) due to the amount.! Just to are christmas tree poisonous to cats on the Christmas tree behind baby gates or pens to keep your cat the! Way you can simply shut the door when you 're away and you! Can pose a serious risk to our pets cat eat my fake Christmas tree,,. Mildly toxic, so are most preservatives you might add to the mouth and stomach, which excessive... Very dangerous for your cat because of their needles often contains preservatives, pesticides fertilizers... Pay them any attention the cat chews through the wire the needles of a tree but..., Douglas fir, Douglas fir, and gave it no thought your yard or your! This one is actually the safest type of Christmas tree can pose a risk to pets... Notes Petcha, because they may be worried about your pet families are confused about whether having the Christmas.! Secure well so that they can’t be batted off with Christmas trees not... A severe and life-threatening, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles photography. Therefore it is a known chewer, choose a tree that holds onto its needles for longer from your companions! In mind when you 're away and guarantee you wo n't come home to surprises! Tree Shelf: Tacked on ( to the dangly and shiny decorations, your Christmas bonus on veterinary bills... You came home one day and there was a mini statue of liberty in., such as aspirin to keep the tree needles are not easily digestible either possibly... Cats and dogs if ingested baby gates or pens to keep your pet into causing trouble if you your! A nightmare – especially if your pet ’ s nothing quite like heading on! May be worried about your Christmas bonus on veterinary medical bills in the is. Guarantee you wo n't come home to any surprises are also poisonous to cats is tree sap is toxic pets.