• 🐾 Does your cat bring you gifts?

• 🐱 What cat parents need to know about holiday decor safety

• 🎁 The best gifts for cat lovers

• 🐈 See this hilarious cat of the day

True or False?

Cats are drawn to the scent of pine needles on Christmas trees because it’s similar to the smells in their natural environment.

(scroll to the bottom to find the answer!)

If your cat has ever presented you with a toy, or even a not-so-welcome surprise like a bug or small critter, you might wonder what they’re trying to tell you. This quirky behavior actually has its roots in feline instincts and social bonding.

In the wild, cats are natural hunters, and even our domesticated friends have retained this instinct to “catch and deliver.” By bringing you these “gifts,” your cat is tapping into their natural role as a provider, a behavior they’d show toward their family or colony.

But there’s more to it than just instinct. Cats are known for forming unique bonds with their humans, and bringing you “prey” (whether it’s a stuffed toy or a bug) is often a sign of affection. To your cat, this is their way of sharing with you, almost as if saying, “Look what I found! Isn’t it great?” And while we may not share their enthusiasm for certain “presents,” it’s worth recognizing the thoughtfulness behind the gesture.

So, next time you find a toy or an unexpected surprise at your feet, remember that your cat is expressing their care in a way that’s deeply rooted in both instinct and affection. It’s their own, very feline way of saying, “You’re part of my family.”

The holiday season is full of festive decor that cats find irresistible. Here’s a list of common hazards and tips for keeping your cat safe during the celebrations:

• Christmas Trees

  • Cats love to climb, but a Christmas tree can be risky. Pine needles may irritate their mouth or stomach if ingested.

  • Tip: Secure your tree to prevent tipping, and consider using a tree guard or blocking it off.

• Tinsel and Ribbons

  • Shiny tinsel and dangling ribbons are hard for cats to resist, but they pose serious choking and digestive hazards.

  • Tip: Use alternative decorations or place tinsel and ribbons out of reach.

• Ornaments

  • Small, delicate ornaments look like toys to cats and can shatter or break if swatted.

  • Tip: Choose shatterproof ornaments and keep smaller, fragile items higher up on the tree.

• Electric Lights

  • Light cords can be tempting for cats to chew on, leading to shocks or burns.

  • Tip: Wrap cords in protective coverings, secure them tightly, and unplug when not in use.

• Holiday Plants

  • Plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly are toxic if ingested.

  • Tip: Opt for pet-safe plants or keep toxic plants well out of your cat’s reach.

• Candles

  • Flickering candles can catch a cat’s attention but pose a burn risk if knocked over.

  • Tip: Consider using flameless LED candles for a safer, pet-friendly option.

With a few thoughtful precautions, you can keep your home festive and safe for your curious cat, allowing them to enjoy the season without the risks.

This holiday season, skip the stress and find the perfect gifts for the cat lovers in your life with our 2024 Gift Guide! From cozy essentials to thoughtful surprises, we’ve curated our favorite products that’ll make every cat parent’s holiday extra special.

Here are a few of our top Daily Purr picks:

🐱 CatLadyBox – The ultimate monthly gift for cat lovers! Every month, they’ll get 3-4 exclusive, cat-themed goodies just for them, plus premium toys and treats for their kitty. It’s the gift that keeps on giving, all while supporting cat rescues.

🐾 Pacagen Holiday Bundle – A lifesaver for allergy-prone cat lovers! This bundle neutralizes 98% of cat allergens, making life easier for everyone in the household. It also includes a free catnip toy, because every kitty deserves some extra joy!

Why stress about shopping? Explore our full gift guide here, with amazing deals on gifts for everyone in your life—pets, humans, and all!

Shop our 2024 Gift Guide Now!

Meet Leo, our cat of the day. Daily Purr reader, Julie, told us that Leo drifted off in this hilarious position, with the TV control conveniently by his side—as if he's settled in for a cozy night of TV.

Thank you Julie for submitting Leo for cat of the day! If you’d like the chance for your feline friend to be featured next week, be sure to reply to this email with a picture of your cat. Plus, don’t forget to include their name and a short description!

🐱 Bite-Sized Treats

🧐 True or False: True! Cats are drawn to the scent of pine needles on Christmas trees because it’s similar to the smells in their natural environment.

😸 COTD: Give your kitty the spotlight by submitting them for Cat of the Day! This month’s theme is all about festive felines in the holiday spirit. Reply to this email with your best photos of your cat looking cozy, festive, or spreading holiday cheer. Be sure to include their name and a short description to be featured in an upcoming newsletter!