We don't want to put a dampener on this happy time of year but if, like most of us, you're a cat owner, then it's time to take that extra special bit of care to keep your precious friend safe. Here at Cairo Cat Rescue & Rehoming Champions we've unashamedly drawn on the advice given by organisations such as the Cats' Protection League and our Veterinary Surgeons to provide you with a safety checklist. You may know most of it, but it's so easy to forget just one thing and to inadvertently put your cat's health at risk resulting in a crisis - and a big bill - just when you least want one.
So here we go:
The Tree

Make sure it's weighted down and won't topple over
Hang glass baubles near the top and make sure those near the bottom are shatterproof
If you have climbers (which I do) don't leave them alone in the same room as the tree. Even for 5 minutes!
Make sure wires are inaccessible or covered to prevent chewing
Switch lights of at the mains wall socket
If you have tree marauding rascals (which I do) chuck them out of the room during the night or when you go out
Tinsel is particularly harmful if digested so try to avoid using
Sweep up pine needles to avoid pricked paws
Sweep up artificial needles which are likely to make them sick
The Presents

If they contain catnip don't put them under the tree. Do you want mass destruction?
When you've put your presents under the tree make sure your cats are supervised. How can they resist a box - however difficult it is to access?
Don't leave discarded wrappings about. Some cats love ribbons and scrunching - and chewing
Be particularly careful with discarded plastic bags - I speak as one who has an addict who ended up in cat casualty
Try to avoid tinsel which can cause serious health issues
Poisonous Chrismas Plants

Berries from holly and misletoe
Poinsettia
Lilies and lily pollen - extremely poisonous. Avoid at all costs
Amaryllis - again extremely toxic
Leopard lilies
Check your houseplants. There are lists on the web indicating which are and which are not toxic
Poisonous Christmas Food

Garlic
Onions
Raisins
Grapes
Chocolate
Note these are toxic even in small amounts
Remember, if you're unsure about anything - look it up. There's plenty of good advice on the web.
Have a very Happy Christmas!
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