What Should I Get my Cat for Christmas?
Felines Love to Participate in Holiday Festivities
Nov 7, 2009
These days, more than ever, pet owners treat their cats like children. From the finest foods, to the latest toys, nothing seems too extravagant for our felines today. So what does a pet parent, or someone who knows them, buy for the furry little family member? Here are some ideas.
Treats
The way to a cat's heart is always through the stomach, and a delicious, high-quality, feline treat will always be a hit. Stay away from treats that contain common allergens, like corn, wheat, beef, or soy. Natural snacks, like dried salmon or herring treats, are not only healthy for cats, but felines absolutely adore them. Functional treats, such as ones that contain glucosamine for older cats, promote urinary health, or treats that help clean a feline's teeth, are a good idea as well.
Catnip
One of the best parts about Christmas with a cat is watching it go crazy attacking the gift wrap laying on the floor. Giving a kitty a catnip toy on Christmas morning will make it go ballistic. A cat with catnip on Christmas is often just as excited as the kids, and just as much fun (if not more) to watch.
If a cat doesn't react to catnip (as a fair number do not), then purchase a toy containing honeysuckle. Honeysuckle has similar effects on cats, and usually works well for felines who do not care for catnip. A well stocked pet store should have a variety of honeysuckle toys.
Toys
Cats love interactive toys, as they promote their natural instinct to hunt. Indoor cats especially need interactive toys, as they are prone to obesity. Balls, mice that rattle, toys that crinkle (cats love crinkly sounds), or danglers that hang off of doors are all great choices. The hottest toy of the season for cats is probably Da BIrd.
Scratching Posts
Every cat needs a scratching post. Scratching and stretching their claws is natural behavior for cats. If a cat doesn't have a scratching post, it may ruin rugs and furniture with its claws. Christmas is a perfect time to introduce a feline to a new scratching post. Scratching posts range from simple ten dollar boards that hang off of door knobs, to carpeted multilevel play lands that cost hundreds. No matter what the budget, a cat will appreciate any scratch post that it can get its claws into.
Beds
Cats love to curl up, and usually right where someone else wants to sit. Having their own bed will keep cats off of furniture, and hair off of the clothes of people visiting for the holidays (let's face it, not everyone is a cat person). There are also window perches that allow cats to sleep directly in the heat of the sun coming through a window. What cat wouldn't love that?
The holidays are times for family and friends to come together and celebrate, so don't forget the family member with four legs. Cats love Christmas too, and are usually easier to shop for than people.
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