(NewsUSA) - There's one family member that many people forget about during holiday family gatherings: the cat.
With the hustle and bustle of the season, many cats get overly excited when friends and family gather. This not only can annoy your visitors, it also can be harmful to your cat.
But you don't have to keep your animal locked in a room in order to avoid problems. The following tips will help your cat stay calm enough to not miss out on the holiday fun:
* Give your cat an extra workout. According to the American Humane Association, having a longer playtime can help tire your cat out before the party starts.
* Encourage guests to greet with care. As the partygoers trickle in, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals suggests asking your guests to calmly greet your cat. Giving an excited greeting can encourage your cat to do the same.
* Amuse your cat with a toy. To distract your cat from jumping up on guests or getting into things, the Humane Society of the United States recommends using toys as a distraction. Catnip toys will keep cats busy.
* Reward good behavior a few times during the event. The American Humane Association suggests keeping treats handy. Encourage your guests to refrain from feeding your cat "people food." Using it as a treat can lead to your cat begging for more at your guests' feet.