Real Christmas Trees And Cats

[Greedyfly]

I know it's early but I like to be prepared. We always have an artificial tree and this year I would like to buy a needlelast real one (the ones that supposedly do not drop needles).

But I have a cat who is very curious and loves eating any vegetation he sees. Now I am aware that Christmas trees are toxic for cats so what would you advise besides not getting a real tree? Do cats know they are toxic to them somehow and will avoid eating it?

I obviously don't want to make my cat ill or have to pay the enormous vet bill that will stem from it all if it happened but I have always wanted a real tree. Was just planing on getting a small one for the side in the living room.

Unfortunately there is no way to keep the tree and the cat separate in my house so that isn't an option.

Do you have cats and a real tree?

Thanks

[boxtops]

If you google, it suggests that yes, the needles are toxic and can also puncture internal organs, but the shape of the foliage makes it very difficult to eat. It's been ages since I had a real tree, but when I did, my then cats were much more interested in the baubles than the greenery.

... and no, they don't know to avoid stuff. Poinsettias are highly toxic too, but a cat will give it a go.

[Prudie]

I always have a real no needle drop tree and always have had cats. They love to try and mess up the decorations but I have never seen one try to eat the foliage. It's hard and has a pungent smell so they've never touched it even though several other houseplants have been chewed to bits.

[Brinjal]

Also my cat was never interested in the tree only the decorations.

[catswhiskas]

My cat always pulled the christmas tree over, it became a tradition -I put it up he pulled it down, had a photo of him sat in it good luck

[SpikeyBush]

it's the decorations they tend to go for. My cat always gets the baubles off and hares round the floor after them, it is a great source of fun for him.

This youtube link is my cheeky Bengal's first Christmas. Media URL: http://youtu.be/o1A3op_o6Sc
Description:

[Buenchico]

That's cute, SB. I'll try to embed it:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o1A3op_o6Sc

[Greedyfly]

Thanks for your answers, I'm still wondering whether to get one or not!