CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS AND STRESS FOR OUR FURRY FRIENDS

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The Christmas holidays can be a stressful time for cats due to changes in routine, new decorations, and visits from friends and relatives. Here are some tips and precautions to ensure your cat feels safe and comfortable during the festive season:

1. Routine and Familiar Environment

Cats are very habitual animals, so any changes in their routine can cause stress. During the holiday season:

  • Maintain a regular routine for meals, playtime, and cuddles, even if there are guests or changes in the home.
  • Prepare a safe and quiet space where your cat can retreat. This could be a room where the cat feels comfortable, with their bed, litter box, water, and food.

2. Guests Visiting

Visits from friends and relatives can be exciting for us, but stressful for cats, who may be frightened by new people and unusual noises.

  • If your cat is sociable, make sure they have the opportunity to interact with guests in a calm and safe way.
  • If they are shy or fearful, they may prefer to stay in a separate room. Don’t force them to socialize, let them decide when and if they want to come out.
  • Teach guests, especially children, to respect the cat’s space and not to chase or disturb them.

3. Travel and Moving Around

If you need to travel for the holidays and have decided to bring your cat with you, consider a few aspects:

  • Prepare the carrier in advance so the cat can get used to it. Place a blanket with their scent and some treats inside.
  • Check the safety of the destination: make sure the house you’re going to is cat-proof (no toxic plants or dangerous objects).
  • If the trip is long, plan breaks for your cat to drink water and use the litter box, if possible.

If you can’t bring your cat with you:

  • Leave your cat with a trusted pet sitter who can visit them regularly or host them at their home. Make sure the person knows everything needed to take care of your cat.
  • Avoid leaving them alone for long periods, even if you have automatic feeders. Cats need interaction and regular check-ins.

 

4. Safe Christmas Decorations

As mentioned earlier, decorations can be dangerous. Keep the following precautions in mind:

  • Avoid tinsel, ribbons, glass ornaments, or lit candles within the cat’s reach.
  • Use sturdy decorations and place the more delicate ones higher up on the tree.
  • Make sure electrical cords are well hidden or protected.

5. Toys and Attention

With all the holiday bustle, it’s easy to forget to play with your cat as you usually do. However, playtime is essential to keep your kitty happy and active.

  • Give them new toys for Christmas or create games with safe objects, like cardboard boxes (which they love).
  • Play with them regularly to reduce stress and keep them entertained.

6. Holiday Foods and Treats

As mentioned before, cats should be kept away from certain common holiday foods:

  • Avoid leaving toxic foods within the cat’s reach, such as chocolate, onions, garlic, raisins, and nuts.
  • If you want to give them a special treat, opt for cat-specific food that can serve as a "holiday snack."

7. Cat Stress and Anxiety

If you notice your cat is particularly nervous or stressed during the holidays, you can try a few remedies to calm them:

  • Use pheromone diffusers (like Feliway) that can create a relaxing environment for your cat.
  • Create extra hiding spots where the cat can feel safe and undisturbed. 

 

8. Conclusion

The holiday season can be a lot of fun for cats too, but it's important to consider their needs and protect them from potential dangers. With a little preparation and care, you can ensure that your cat also enjoys a peaceful and stress-free Christmas.

Be sure to always give them attention and affection, because, like us, they can feel neglected or confused amid all the holiday chaos!