What to Spray on Christmas Tree to Keep Cat Away

Published January 7, 2025 | By admin

The holidays are here, and for many of us, that means putting up a beautiful Christmas tree and because of that, many pet parents start wondering “What to Spray on Christmas Tree to Keep Cat Away”! Since, they notice that their furry friend sees the tree as a brand-new playground—complete with shiny toys, fun climbing opportunities, and new smells!

While it’s cute to see their curiosity, it can also be dangerous. Cats can knock over the tree, chew on light cords, or even swallow decorations. Don’t worry—there’s a way to keep your cat safe while saving your tree. Sprays are a simple, pet-safe way to help keep your kitty away from the Christmas tree. Let’s explore how they work and which ones are best!

Why Are Cats So Obsessed with Christmas Trees?

Before we get into sprays, let’s talk about why cats can’t resist your holiday masterpiece.

It’s New and Exciting: Cats are naturally curious, and when you bring a giant tree into their space, they have to investigate.
It Smells Interesting: Real trees have a natural scent that cats find fascinating, and even artificial trees have unfamiliar smells.
It’s Full of “Toys”: Dangling ornaments, shiny tinsel, and twinkling lights mimic prey. To your cat, they’re irresistible!
It’s a Climbing Challenge: Cats love to climb, and your Christmas tree is basically a jungle gym in their eyes.

What to Spray on Christmas Tree to Keep Cat Away?

Sprays are a great way to create a boundary between your cat and the tree without being harsh. Here are some options to consider:

1. Commercial Cat Deterrent Sprays

These are sprays you can buy at pet stores specifically designed to keep cats away.

They usually contain smells that cats dislike, such as citrus or bitter apple.
They’re safe for pets and easy to use.
Pro Tip: Test a small area of your tree to make sure the spray doesn’t damage ornaments or needles.

2. DIY Natural Sprays

If you want to save money or avoid store-bought products, you can make your own spray at home using safe, natural ingredients.

Here are a few recipes to try:

Citrus Spray: Mix 2 cups of water, 10 drops of lemon or orange essential oil, and 1 tablespoon of white vinegar. Cats typically dislike citrus smells.
Vinegar Spray: Combine equal parts water and white vinegar. The strong smell can deter cats, but it’s safe for them.
Herbal Spray: Mix water with a few drops of peppermint or eucalyptus oil. Use this sparingly, as strong herbal scents can overwhelm your cat.

Remember to avoid essential oils like tea tree or clove—they’re toxic to cats.

3. Alternative Non-Spray Options

Not a fan of sprays? Here are some other scent-based solutions:

Place pinecones soaked in citrus oil under the tree.
Use aluminum foil or reflective tape around the tree’s base—cats hate the texture and sound.

How to Use Cat Deterrent Sprays Effectively

To get the best results, follow these tips:

Test First: Spray a small area of the tree to ensure it doesn’t damage the needles, ornaments, or lights.
Apply Regularly: The scent can fade, especially on real trees, so reapply every few days or after watering the tree.
Focus on Key Areas: Spray the lower branches, the tree trunk, and the tree skirt—these are the spots your cat is most likely to target.

What to Spray on Christmas Tree to Keep Cat Away – Other Methods

While sprays are effective, combining them with other strategies can make your tree even safer.

1. Create Physical Barriers

Use a pet gate or playpen around the tree.
Wrap the tree trunk with aluminum foil or double-sided tape—cats hate how it feels on their paws.

2. Distract and Entertain

Give your cat plenty of toys, scratching posts, and climbing trees to keep them busy.
Rotate their toys to keep things interesting, so they’re less tempted by the tree.

3. Use Positive Reinforcement

If your cat stays away from the tree, reward them with treats or affection.
Redirect their attention to something else if they start to approach the tree.

Safety First: What to Avoid

Not all sprays or methods are safe for cats. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Avoid Toxic Essential Oils: Tea tree, clove, and cinnamon oils can be harmful to cats.
Be Careful with Decorations: Make sure your ornaments and lights are secure so your cat can’t knock them down.
Supervise Your Cat: Even with sprays and barriers, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your curious kitty around the tree.

What to Spray on Christmas Tree to Keep Cat Away – Conclusion

Keeping your cat away from the Christmas tree doesn’t have to be a battle. By using safe deterrent sprays and combining them with other strategies like barriers and distractions, you can enjoy a beautiful tree while keeping your cat safe and happy.

Remember, your cat isn’t trying to ruin Christmas—they’re just curious and playful! With a little effort, you can protect your tree and give your cat a stress-free holiday season. Happy holidays!

Click HERE To Read More…