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10 Tips to Prepare Cats and People for Holiday Visits

A tabby cat wearing a red Santa cap in front of a Christmas tree.
Santa Cat

The holidays are filled with joy, food, family—and for cat lovers, a little extra fur. Whether you’re hosting guests or traveling with your feline friend, a bit of preparation ensures everyone (cats and humans alike) enjoys a calm, cozy season. Here are ten tips to make your home (and your cat) ready for festive gatherings.


1. Create a Safe Space for Your Cat

Before guests arrive, set up a quiet retreat where your cat can relax away from noise and activity. Include familiar comforts like their bed, favorite toys, and a cozy blanket. A diffuser with calming pheromones can also help soothe anxiety.


A ginger kitty lying on a pet bed with a black cat pattern.
Comfort Diva Pet Bed

Tip: Comfort Diva just launched a Pet Bed, that would be ideal for your cat to cozy up in.


2. Keep Routines Consistent

Cats thrive on routine. Try to maintain regular feeding times, litter box cleaning, and play sessions. Familiar patterns make a big difference in helping your cat feel secure during holiday chaos.


3. Introduce Visitors Gradually

Not all cats are social butterflies! If guests are staying over, let your cat meet them on their own terms. Encourage visitors to sit quietly and allow your cat to approach when ready—no chasing or forced cuddles.


4. Remind Guests of Cat Etiquette

A gentle reminder goes a long way. Let guests know to close doors behind them, keep food off the counter, and avoid sudden loud noises. If your cat hides, it’s best to let them be.


5. Mind the Décor and Candles

Holiday décor can be tempting (and dangerous). Skip tinsel, secure the tree base, and avoid open flames from candles. Consider battery-operated LED candles for festive ambiance that’s cat-safe.


A tabby cat sniffing a plant pod stem.
Cat Sniffing a Plant Pod

6. Watch Out for Toxic Foods and Plants

Many seasonal favorites—like onions, garlic, chocolate, and poinsettias—are toxic to cats. Keep human treats and floral arrangements out of paw’s reach, and opt for cat-safe greenery instead.

Plant / Herb

Why It’s Dangerous for Cats

Safer Alternatives

Poinsettia

The sap can irritate the mouth and stomach, causing drooling, vomiting, and discomfort.

Silk or faux poinsettias

Mistletoe

Contains toxins that can cause vomiting, low blood pressure, and difficulty breathing.

Artificial mistletoe sprigs

Holly (Berries & Leaves)

Causes vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy if ingested.

Faux holly décor

Lilies (especially Easter, Tiger, and Stargazer)

Extremely toxic—can cause kidney failure even from small exposure (like licking pollen).

Cat-safe flowers such as roses or orchids

Amaryllis

Contains lycorine, leading to vomiting, drooling, and tremors.

Paperwhite narcissus (inaccessible area) or artificial blooms

Pine Needles (Real Trees or Garland)

Can puncture intestines or cause vomiting if swallowed.

Artificial trees or pet-safe evergreens

Rosemary

Strong scent can be irritating to cats’ sensitive noses; ingestion in large amounts causes stomach upset.

Catnip, cat grass

Sage

Contains essential oils that can cause stomach upset or affect the nervous system in large amounts.

Dried catnip or valerian root

Thyme

Not deadly but can cause mild digestive irritation if eaten in quantity.

Parsley (in moderation)

Christmas Cactus

Usually non-toxic but can cause vomiting or diarrhea if chewed in large amounts.

Succulents like haworthia or echeveria (non-toxic)

Cat-Safe Plant / Herb

Why It’s Safe & Festive

Fun Holiday Use Ideas

Catnip

Non-toxic and loved by most cats — provides gentle stimulation and joy.

Sprinkle into toys, stuff ornaments, or make “catnip stockings.”

Cat Grass (Wheatgrass / Barley Grass)

Great for digestion and hairball control; gives a natural green touch indoors.

Grow in small pots as “mini Christmas trees.”

Lemongrass

Safe in small amounts and offers a fresh citrus scent cats enjoy.

Add potted lemongrass to kitchen windowsills for a cheerful vibe.

Valerian Root

Mildly sedative — helps calm anxious cats during travel or guests.

Create homemade “calming sachets” for your cat’s bed.

Bamboo Palm (Parlor Palm)

Non-toxic and purifies indoor air while adding a tropical holiday look.

Decorate with small cat-safe ornaments or ribbons.

Boston Fern

Lush and non-toxic, perfect for adding greenery to cozy corners.

Hang near windows or pair with twinkle lights for a warm touch.

Areca Palm

Pet-safe palm that adds height and elegance to your holiday décor.

Use as a backdrop for festive photos with your cat.

Spider Plant

Safe if nibbled, with playful dangling leaves cats find irresistible.

Place in a hanging pot for a whimsical “indoor snowflake” look.

Rosemary (in moderation)

Mild and aromatic — non-toxic in small amounts, but best kept out of heavy chewing reach.

Use in wreaths placed out of reach, or as a garnish for your holiday table.

Parsley

A vitamin-rich, cat-safe herb that freshens breath.

Use as edible garnish for your cat’s homemade treats.

7. Prep the Litter Box Situation

If you’re hosting, consider adding an extra litter box in a discreet area to reduce stress and avoid “accidents.” For travelers, bring a portable litter box and familiar litter for comfort on the road.


8. Plan for Travel (If You’re Bringing Kitty)

Use a sturdy carrier, line it with a soft blanket, and bring along your cat’s favorite toy or comfort item. Talk to your vet about calming aids or travel tips if your cat gets anxious on trips. Use a harness if you are traveling with your cat on the plane.


9. Set Boundaries for Gift Wrap and Ribbons

Cats love crinkly paper—but ribbons, bows, and strings can be choking hazards. Let your cat join in the fun safely by giving them a dedicated “play wrapping” area with tissue paper or boxes to explore.


10. Don’t Forget Some Holiday Comforts for You Both

Between hosting and gifting, treat yourself and your feline companion! Snuggle up with a Comfort Diva cat-themed blanket, light a cozy candle, and enjoy the season together. After all, home is where the purr is.


Final Thought

The holidays are better when everyone—two- and four-legged—feels at ease. With a bit of foresight, you can create a welcoming space full of warmth, love, and maybe a little cat hair glitter.

 
 
 

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