The festive season is full of bright lights, delicious food, and exciting decorations, but for kittens, it can also be a time of hidden dangers. Curious, playful, and still learning the world, kittens are naturally drawn to shiny objects, dangling ornaments, and new smells around the house.
This guide will help you keep your kitten safe, calm, and healthy while you enjoy the celebration.
A Christmas tree is basically a giant playground for a kitten – but it’s also one of the biggest festive hazards.
How to keep your kitten safe:
Secure the tree with a solid stand so it won’t tip over.
Anchor it to the wall if you have a climber or jumper.
Avoid breakable ornaments (glass, ceramic).
Place fragile or dangerous ornaments high up, out of reach.
Skip tinsel and glitter garlands – kittens can swallow them, causing life-threatening blockages.
Cover the water reservoir of real trees; the water can contain fertilisers or bacteria.
Even if your kitten tries to climb the tree (and let’s be honest, most will!), these steps can prevent accidents.
Some festive plants are toxic to cats. Even small nibbles can cause vomiting, irritation, or worse.
Toxic plants to avoid:
Lily (extremely toxic)
Poinsettia (mildly irritating but safer avoided)
Mistletoe
Holly
Amaryllis
Safe alternatives:
Cat-friendly decorations like felt garlands, artificial greenery, or dried orange slices still give your home holiday charm – without the risk.
Ribbons, strings, bows, and crinkly paper are kitten heaven – but some can be dangerous.
Stay safe by:
Keeping ribbons and strings out of reach when unsupervised.
Picking up loose tape, wrapping scraps, and plastic wrap immediately.
Storing scissors and razor blades safely.
If your kitten eats ribbon, it can cause intestinal blockages, which require emergency surgery – so tidy wrapping areas and supervise play.
Holiday food smells delicious, but many festive treats are unsafe for cats.
Keep your kitten away from:
Chocolate
Raisins and grapes
Onions and garlic
Alcohol
Xylitol (in sugar-free foods)
Fatty or salty meats
Bones of any kind
Safer treats:
Small bits of cooked, plain chicken (no salt, no skin, no bones) or their usual kitten snacks are the safest options.
Twinkling lights and dangling cables are irresistible to kittens.
Make your home safe by:
Using cord protectors or hiding cables behind furniture.
Unplugging lights when not in use.
Keeping candles high up and never unattended.
Choosing battery-powered candles where possible.
The festive season brings gatherings, fireworks, and changes in routine – which can overwhelm kittens.
Help reduce stress:
Create a quiet “safe room” with their bed, litter box, food, and water.
Keep noisy celebrations away from your kitten’s space.
Play soft music or white noise to mask loud sounds.
Give plenty of hiding spots (blanket forts, boxes, tunnels).
A calm kitten is a happy kitten – and less likely to run outside or hide for hours.
New Year’s Eve is one of the scariest nights for pets.
Keep your kitten indoors at all times and ensure:
All windows and doors are closed.
Your kitten is microchipped.
They have a safe hiding area.
Curtains are closed to reduce light flashes.
Never take your kitten outside during fireworks – even confident cats can panic and bolt.
If you’re travelling with your kitten:
Use a secure, well-ventilated carrier.
Bring familiar items (blanket or toy) for comfort.
Never leave your kitten in a parked car.
Stick to their regular feeding schedule to avoid tummy upset.
If you’re going away, make sure your kitten is cared for by someone responsible who understands their needs.
With a bit of planning, the holiday season can be magical for both you and your kitten. By understanding common hazards – and taking simple precautions – you’ll keep your furry friend safe, healthy, and stress-free.
At Kitten Clinic, we’re committed to helping kittens thrive in every season. If you ever have questions about kitten care or behaviour, feel free to reach out or visit our website for more resources.
If you’re looking for a well-socialised kitten, visit our Adoption Page