Their Mission? Pet-Proof The Christmas Tree. Their Success Rate? Well…

There's nothing like putting up the Christmas tree to get the whole family in the holiday spirit.

Unfortunately, certain furry family members seem determined to dismantle our mantels, along with everything else we attempt to decorate! Indoor pets simply don't understand why their humans have dragged a giant tree into the house, and it shows. Thankfully, there are a few tried-and-true techniques designed to protect the tree from even the most ferocious critters.

1. Baby gates aren't just for babies, you know.

cat proof xmas tree in a cage

2. Introducing the magical hovering Christmas tree! (Don't worry, no husbands were injured while balancing on a ladder to put this thing up.)

floating christmas tree

3. Who says you need a "real" tree, anyway?

Christmas tree on wall

4. Or an evergreen, for that matter?

Rottweilers by Christmas tree

5. This tree is so sly, the cat doesn't even seem to know it's there.

christmas tree on ceiling

6. Of course we put the Christmas tree on top of the fridge. Where else would we put it?

small Christmas tree on top of fridge

7. It's not the prettiest, but it will do.

cat tree

8. Go ahead, try to touch it. We dare you.

cactus christmas tree

9. Which end is up? Does it matter?

upside down Christmas tree

10. Nothing's getting in there... not even Santa.

Christmas tree in a cage

11. Forget tinsel! This year's tree calls for duct tape, and lots of it.

duct taped Christmas tree stand

12. Wait, is this a before or an after picture?

coat rack Christmas tree

13. It may be tiny, but it's pretty darn adorable.

Christmas tree inside a lantern

14. If you can't beat 'em, join 'em.

cat inside a tree

15. When all else fails, just admire the beauty from afar!

cats looking at Christmas tree outside

These naughty animals do make things challenging, but their parents wouldn't have it any other way! Every time they cuddle up to us on the couch or flop over for belly rubs, we instantly forget how obnoxious they are around the holiday decorations. They're worth the extra work!

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