IT may be easy to forget that feline family members may not enjoy the hustle and bustle of the festive season.

Cats Protection’s 12 tips will help keep puss purring into the new year.

Keep pets away from toxic bouquets. Many plants and flowers can be dangerous.

Cats are furrever. Don’t give cats as a present, they are a life-long commitment and should never be thought of as a novelty or surprise gift.

Keep kitty away from decorations. Baubles can be painful to paws if broken, while trinkets with small parts as well as tinsel and ‘angel hair’ can be fatal if swallowed

Cats look cute without added sparkle. Fancy dress not only makes them stressed and restricts movement but increases risk of injury and prevents grooming or stretching too.  

Avoid the temptation of a Christmas tree playground. Leave the bare tree in place a few days before decorating so that your cat is less interested once decorations are added. Pine needles can be dangerous.​

Human food is not cat food. Although cats will often appreciate a little bit of well-cooked fresh chicken or fish, never share anything containing chocolate, onions or raisins with your cat as they are all poisonous.

Create a calm haven. Noisy parties, unknown people, crackers and party poppers can all be stressful.

Keep things tidy. 

Fires and fur should never mix. Candles should be kept out of your cat’s reach and open fires should be screened.

Ensure festive cat toys are feline-friendly.

Plan ahead and book a sitter. Cats love routine and prefer a familiar environment so consider a cat sitter rather than a cattery if you’re going away.

Plug-in for puss. New Year can be filled with parties, fireworks and bright lights which can be scary for cats. Keep your curtains drawn, consider a pheromone plug-in diffuser and play soothing music to help your cat start 2023 in a warm, restful way.  

Read more:Have a paw-fect Christmas with this advice from Dogs Trust