How to Survive Christmas Tree Season with a Bengal Cat

Ah, Christmas—twinkling lights, festive cheer, and the annual battle royale between your Christmas tree and your Bengal cat. If you’ve chosen to share your life with one of these mischievous little leopards, congratulations! You’ve also signed up for the ultimate test of patience and ingenuity as your tree is a magical wonderland of textures, scents and textures for your Bengal cat. 

The real goal this season? Keep your Bengal safe while allowing them to enjoy the festivities. Here’s how to strike that perfect balance.

1. Know Thy Cat (and Adjust Accordingly)

Is your Bengal a curious explorer, a mischievous troublemaker, or (miraculously) one of the rare chilled-out ones? Their personality will shape your Christmas tree strategy. A naughty adventurer will see your tree as the ultimate climbing frame, while a quieter soul might merely bat at the baubles. Either way, don’t underestimate their creativity. Think of them as the MacGyver of cats—they will find a way to access the tree.

2. The Great Tree Debate: Natural or Artificial?

While a real Christmas tree may evoke a sense of nostalgia, it also comes with a not-so-festive hazard: pine needles. They’re mildly toxic and sharp—a bad combination for curious paws and nibbling mouths. Add to that the potential hazards of treated water in the tree stand, and it might feel like a full-time job keeping your Bengal away.

Artificial trees with no flocking are the safest.

Whichever you choose, the most important step is securing your tree. A heavy base or anchoring it to the ceiling or the wall will save you from waking up to a festive tree-felling disaster.

3. Taming the Lights (Or Trying To)

Ah, fairy lights—the magical glow of Christmas…and the ultimate temptation for a Bengal. Dangling cords are an invitation for chewing, which is both annoying and dangerous. Consider cord protectors or wrapping them snugly around the tree to minimise the dangling temptation. For extra safety, only turn on the lights when you’re in the room, ready to intervene like the overprotective cat parent you’ve become.

I opted for no Christmas lights to prevent any accidents.

4. Fragile Decorations Are a No-Go

Those beautiful glass baubles or any pointy decorations. Say goodbye. If they’re not batted off the tree and shattered, they may be nibbled on or swallowed. Instead, opt for shatterproof ornaments—there are plenty of stylish options available that can survive even the most determined Bengal paw swats. Place delicate decorations out of reach (or abandon them entirely, let’s be honest).

Fabric, felt, and wooden decorations are ideal—not only are they sturdy, but they’re also safe if your Bengal decides to investigate with their teeth.

Tinsel is best left off the tree entirely. It might sparkle beautifully, but if ingested, it can cause serious health issues for your cat. Similarly, skip anything fragile or sharp, like glass ornaments or decorations with small parts that can break off. Avoid hanging hooks and consider using thread instead.

5. To Claim or Not to Claim

A Bengal cat will consider the tree their new domain unless you take proactive measures. To discourage climbing, try wrapping the base in crinkly aluminium foil—a texture most cats dislike. If all else fails, you might need to make peace with a “catified” tree and strategically place toys at the bottom as a distraction.

6. Deter with Natural Scents

Here’s a trick for keeping your Bengal’s curious paws at bay: decorate with dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and other citrus elements. Cats tend to dislike citrus scents, and these natural touches add a rustic, festive charm to your tree. It’s a win-win—your home smells like Christmas, and your Bengal keeps their distance.

7. Supervision Is Key

Let’s be clear: your Bengal’s antics won’t stop just because you’ve kitten-proofed the tree. When the lights go on, their mischief kicks into high gear. Always supervise your cat during tree time—consider it an unplanned bonding activity (with occasional heart-stopping moments).

8. Create an Alternative Attraction

One clever way to keep your Bengal away from the tree is to provide a decoy. A cardboard box village, a scratching post disguised as a festive treat, or even a cat-safe mini tree of their own can redirect their attention. Bonus points if you sprinkle in some catnip—it’s Christmas for them too, after all.

Placing the tree against a wall not only stabilises it but also allows you to focus decorations on one side. This setup makes it easier to spot potential mischief and keeps the most delicate ornaments out of reach.

9. Think Like a Cat Parent

The most important part of decorating your tree is keeping your Bengal safe. Tinsel, plastic, wires, pine needles, berries, and glass can all be dangerous if chewed or swallowed. Approach the tree as if you’re preparing it for a curious, mobile toddler who doesn’t yet understand the risks.

No one wants their holiday memories to include a rushed trip to the vet, so err on the side of caution when choosing decorations and tree placement.

10. Train with Positive Reinforcement

If your Bengal starts showing interest in the tree, you can redirect their attention with positive reinforcement. Use treats or toys to reward them for staying in their play zone or for ignoring the tree altogether. Training may not be instant, but it can help in the long run.

Decorating your Christmas tree with a Bengal cat in the house requires a balance of festive spirit and feline-proofing ingenuity. While you may have to sacrifice a bit of traditional decor for practicality, remember that the chaos is part of the charm of having a Bengal. Besides, there’s nothing quite as heartwarming—or hilariously frustrating—as the sight of your cat gazing innocently at the tree they’ve clearly just tried to destroy.

May your tree stand tall, your baubles remain intact, and your cat be (relatively) well-behaved. Merry Christmas! 🎄

Resources:

1. ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center – Learn about holiday hazards and how to prevent pet poisoning. Visit the website.
2. International Cat Care – Expert advice on cat behaviour and safety, including holiday tips for pet owners. Read more here.
3. VCA Animal Hospitals – Helpful holiday pet safety tips to keep your furry friends safe this season. Check it out here.
4. Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine – Insights on feline behaviour and how to manage your cat during the holidays. Explore the resources.
5. Pet Poison Helpline – A guide to toxic holiday plants, decorations, and more to protect your pets. Learn more.
6. American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) – Holiday pet safety tips to help prevent seasonal risks. Read more.