Prevent kittens’ Christmas crisis

QI HAVE two six-month-old kittens. Do I need to worry about our Christmas tree or other decorations? My husband is concerned that the kittens will try to climb the tree or chew the wiring on the lights.

A YOU are right to ask how to avoid problems as they are common at Christmas and the tree is a prime source of danger.

Pine needles on real trees can cause harm if ingested as they are toxic. They are also sharp and can cause damage to the intestines. Holly and mistletoe berries are poisonous too.

Ornaments are very attractive to inquisitive kittens and I have had to remove the fairy on the top of the tree from intestines on several occasions. Ribbons and tinsel also pose a danger. Kittens, for some reason, like to swallow these and they cause an obstruction in the intestines that needs lengthy surgery.

If you notice any loss of appetite, lethargy or vomiting during the festive season, you should visit the vet’s surgery immediately.

Kittens also like to climb

Our vet David Grant works his animal magic

Christmas trees and toppling the tree can cause serious injury. They may chew on the wiring too, although this is more common with puppies.

Potential hazards can be prevented or minimised by ensuring the tree has a firm heavy base, and not leaving the kittens unattended at any time as they will get up to mischief.

● David Grant MBE was a vet at the RSPCA Harmsworth Hospital for Animals. Write to him at Express Yourself, 10 Lower Thames St, London, EC3R 6EN. He is unable to enter into individual correspondence.