Some cat pictures

Last year, our cats destroyed our Christmas tree. In fact, they did it several times, and I had to put it back together several times.

This year, I decided that I was smarter than the cats, and solved the problem.

Our Christmas tree, 2007

Modified tree_structure, 2007

The above picture is after the cats worked on the tree. Still together!

Here is a picture of the modified tree structure. Instead of tying the tree to the wall with cotton cord, we used bailing wire inside plastic electrical conduit. To keep the branches from being pulled down, we strung them together using twine.

The conduit was a perfect success.

The twine was a partial success, Mungojerrie chewed through it in a few places. We replace those segments with more bailing wire. We also tied the ends of nearby branches together with bailing wire while we were at it.

Chaz the cat climbing tree

The tree even withstood Chaz climbing it all the way to the top. Sorry about the picture being slightly out of focus, I didn't have time for another shot.

This was before we found the angel for the top.

The only trouble we've had is the cats pulling down some ornaments, they seem to have gotten bored with that, and have mostly stopped.

Update, new year's day, 2008

Well, the tree stood for a good long time, a matter of weeks. In fact, it still stands -what's left of it. On December 30th, after only minor tree damage, Chaz learned that he could walk across the supporting conduit and make a nest in the tree branches, doing a lot of damage in the process.

Plans for next year

Well, next year, I'm going to try more of the same. I'll reinforce the tree branches all the way to the top using bailing wire. I'll crimp the ornament hooks onto the tree. I'll wire the lights and garland to the branches. I am determined to prove that I'm smarter than that cat.