This article was originally published on 24/7Mirror
The Grinch isn't the only threat to the holiday of Christmas. Beloved pets and family members are just as likely to spoil the festive spirit. As a matter of fact, sometimes they're even way more likely to ruin the holiday. Whether these adorable critters were simply looking to take have all the attention on them or they actually wanted to ruin the festivities, their attempts, as you will soon see, are both comical and commendable.
Better Luck Next Year Wrapping the Presents
Who is the queen of the castle and who is the queen of this house? Obviously, without a doubt at all, it is this cat. She thinks that she rules the roost (and quite possibly she actually does) and she has no desire to forfeit her reign anytime soon. What is the first rule that she has in place? Under no circumstance is anyone allowed to touch or come near the wrapping paper.
The family of the house has made a formal apology to the gift receivers that they tried their best, but unfortunately, the cat wouldn't let them wrap any of the presents.
The Guilty Look of Claimed Innocence
Everyone is familiar with the guilty chocolate-covered face of a child who claims to not have tried to eat the cookies from the cookie jar. But who has had the pleasure of seeing the exact same expression on the face of their dog? This dog, if he could talk, would most definitely be claiming innocence. "The tree was standing upright one minute and the next it just suddenly fell right over".
At least it appears to be a pretty simple fix. The dog may have knocked over the entire tree, but it doesn't look like a simple fix to just put it back up again. Minimal damage.
The Tree Caught Him in the Act
Decorating a Christmas tree can be a fun, yet time-consuming, task. There is nothing worse than finishing your masterpiece of holiday artwork only to find it all destroyed within just a few minutes. Surely it is nearly irresistible for the cats to not try to play with some of the ornaments and trinkets dangling everywhere, but this cat couldn't control himself at all. He waited for his owners to walk out the door and then attacked.
It looks like the tree attacked back, trapping the kitty right underneath it, causing him to lose any attempt to escape this holiday mess guilt-free. Caught in the act.
The Wrapping Paper Was Just Too Tasty
Although you've probably never considered the possibility of snacking on some delicious-looking....wrapping paper, this cat seemed to have different ideas. Seeing all the beautiful and perfectly wrapped gifts waiting under the tree to be opened, this kitty went in for the kill. What could be a better way to spend the morning than ripping apart all the packages, eating some of the paper, and spreading little paper bits throughout the rest of the house?
He really looks like he overdid it with his indulgences. His belly is full of paper and he is exhausted. Enough work for one day for this kitty.
She's Not Even Sorry
Some pets are very well trained. They know what they are allowed and not allowed to do. When they do act out of line, they are fully aware that they are not supposed to and are scared to get caught. This fearless black cat clearly has no such awe for its owners. She walked up to the new Christmas tree, found a way to knock it over, and walked away proud. A good day's work.
It almost looks like she was sent on a mission to destroy Christmas. Upon completion of the mission (knocking over the Christmas tree), she could walk away proudly and fearlessly.
Everyone Jumped Into the Christmas Tree
Nobody wants chaos during the holiday season. It's supposed to be a time of family and love and joyous memories. Well, these pets seem to be ready to make some memories on their own. The family cat started the trend by taking one giant, bounding jump right into the heart of the Christmas tree. The dog couldn't resist following him right in and lunged toward the tree in an ungrateful leap.
This picture was captured right before the full disaster- the entire tree that soon came tumbling down. Looking on the bright side, at least they hadn't fully decorated the tree yet.
What Happened to All the Candy Canes?
No one can deny that candy canes are an irresistible holiday treat, beloved by everyone. Their bright colors and fun stripes only make their peppermint and sugary taste seem even yummier. It looks like this cat also wanted to get in on some of the seasonal delicacies. And what better place than to grab them right off the Christmas tree itself? Hopefully, these candy canes don't contain anything harmful to cats!
The cat probably thought he could get away with taking one or two candy canes here or there. No one would notice until all the candy canes disappeared and the cat started looking a little heavier.
Peaking up the Angel's Skirt
Nothing shows the difference between naughty and nice more than this very naughty kitten that not only decided to climb the Christmas tree (and risk knocking the whole thing down) but also wanted to grab the angel's skirt and take a peek up it. Although the tree is still standing and no harm was actually done, it doesn't look like this kitten is going to be getting any presents this holiday season.
It is quite remarkable that this cat managed to climb all the way to the top of the tree, grab the mesh skirt of the angel, and still not knock over the entire thing.
As Innocent as Can Be
If animals could talk, this dog would surely have quite a bit to say. He would probably come up with a long and complicated story of some burglars or crazy cats that entered and destroyed everything in the house. Under no circumstances were the owners to blame the dog himself. At least he left the tree pretty much undisturbed, even if all the gifts were left in pieces throughout the living room.
That was either an extremely fascinating book, that he wanted to just eat it all up, or it was so offensive he decided it needed to be destroyed forever.
The Dog Who Ate Christmas
Instead of the Grinch who stole Christmas, the latest photo shows the Dog Who Ate Christmas. He decided to destroy, chew on, and eat every single one of the presents that were to be gifted on Christmas day. Was he lacking food? Was he hungry? No. So could he be forgiven? Not a chance in the world. Look at his totally unapologetic expression. He knows what he did was wrong and continued to do it anyway!
Upon closer examination, it does appear that most of the toys only have small external damage and can probably still be used. It would be such a waste to just throw them all away.
The Completely Camouflaged Kitten
Next time your kitten goes missing during the holiday season, the first place you should look is the Christmas tree. Besides being an infamous favorite for cats to climb and knock down, apparently, it's also quite popular for snuggling and hiding far away from everyone. This little cat looks just like one of the many ornaments on the tree, you can hardly see him at all at first glance.
The cat seems to be enjoying his little hiding spot in the tree, he can see everything that is going on and yet few people will notice him.
A Nice Little Holiday Snack
Almost everyone gains some weight during the holiday season. There are just too many cookies and pies and sweet, hot drinks available that it's nearly impossible (and very undesirable) to resist. It looks like this cat is just like most people, only with a little bit different of a snack. It's not clear how tasty this pine tree actually is, but regardless the cat seems to be thoroughly enjoying the snack.
Beyond just enjoying the treat, this cat seems very angered that someone would disturb him. It may only be a matter of time before half the tree is chewed away.
Lights, Reindeer, Decorations, and Beagles
What could lights, reindeer, Christmas decorations, and beagles all possibly have in common? Besides this greeting-card-like photo, probably not too much. These dogs are busy getting wrapped up in a mess of Christmas lights and also sporting some dashing reindeer horns. One beagle in the background seems to be more of a spectator, watching the chaos unfold around him. Despite the mess, they certainly seem to understand the meaning of getting into the holiday spirit.
Although this picture is most likely staged, it doesn't make it any less lovable and relatable. Even if it didn't actually happen, it very well could have.
Just Walk Away as if Nothing Happened
It's hard to tell if these cats are guilty of being the reason this tree is leaning and tilting to the side or if they are just as confused as everyone else. On the one hand, they appear to be very guilty and attempting to escape without anyone noticing. On the other hand, the cat on the left looks genuinely confused and concerned. Maybe they were concerned over what their own behavior caused.
The cat on the right is more than ready to just ignore the entire situation and continue on with his life as if nothing happened. Even if he is guilty, he is not interested in taking responsibility.
Catzilla Overtakes a Christmas Town
The day the world feared may have finally come to fruition. An enormous cat, a Godzilla-like creature, has overtaken a small Christmas town and is threatening to destroy it. She sits right in the center of the village, threatening all the people and reindeer, and inhabitants. They all know that their time is limited. They are just trying to celebrate their snowy winter in peace and quiet, surrounded by plenty of hot chocolate.
Although this kitty looks fairly innocent (despite being foreboding), you never know if everything will change in just a split second if the cat has a change of heart and decides to destroy the entire town.
Cat Angel on Top of the Tree
Who needs a traditional white angel to be placed at the top of their Christmas tree? It surely seems outdated when you consider the possibility of simply placing your cat right at the top. Cats will do everything to get to climb to the top of the Christmas tree no matter what you do, so why not save yourself the effort of fighting against it by just placing them there in the first place?
This cat looks so extremely comfortable in her abode atop the tree. But she also seems to be very wary of anyone trying to approach her to remove her from her perch.
Just Chillin' in the Christmas Tree
Rockin around the Christmas tree...at the Christmas party hop. This cat seems to be doing more chillin' in the Christmas tree than rockin' around it. But who can blame her? Look at that extremely comfortable branch she found for herself. You would probably do the same thing if you could. Surrounded by the smell of fresh pine, candy canes, and holiday spices, who wouldn't want to enjoy a few hours in scent bliss?
The cat's colors match the entire color scheme of the tree and the holiday perfectly. The cream accents the light golden ornaments, making the cat look like one herself.
Dreaming of a White Christmas
Anyone who has ever dreamt of a white Christmas probably didn't mean it in this exact context. Usually referring to a blanket of white outside and fresh white snowflakes, this cat and Christmas tree took things to an entirely new level. Looking just like one of the ornaments (although far more beautiful with those blue eyes), it would be truly shocking to anyone to suddenly see the tree moving with such a camouflaged creature inside.
The treetops are certainly glistening here and somewhere there have to be sleigh bells heard in the snow. It gives the famous song an entirely new and more complex meaning.
You Can't Catch This Cat
Good luck catching this cat without taking the entire tree down with you. even a ladder probably won't help when push comes to shove and the cat claws down on its favorite new spot - the very top of the Christmas tree. Although the cat does appear to be a little bit scared, he also looks very happy and satisfied with himself that he made it all the way to the top without knocking the tree over.
It would be interesting to know if there are no lights at the top of the tree because of the cat or if the family particularly planned it to be like that to let the cat shine.
I Want a Cockatoo for Christmas
The idea of having a bird around the house, especially one as cute and funny as a cockatoo, is very appealing. But keep in mind the risks involved as they may just be as mischievous as this little guy who is pecking away at the very heart of Christmas (figuratively of course). It looks like he was caught mid-crime and didn't have time to complete his mission of destroying the entire heart.
It probably wouldn't have taken this bird too long to peck and bite his way through all of the Christmas decorations. The pointy beak is not a great combination with soft and plush toys.
Train Wreck at the Nativity Scene
This doesn't quite look like a silent night or a holy night. Although for the members of this nativity scene, it is certainly a night to remember. With just a couple of quick movements, this cat managed to destroy the entire scene. What was a peaceful and beautiful representation of a religious story quickly became what looks like a razed and war-torn city. You can hope for better days for this town.
Despite alreaddy having wreaked quite a bit of havoc, this cat is going in for more! He will not rest until the entire nativity scene is destroyed.
He Just Wanted to Help With the Gift Wrapping
Wrapping gifts in the Christmas season can become quite a full time job depending on how many gifts you give out. This doggo seemed to want to offer a helping hand. What may have started out as a truly kind gesture quickly turned into a mess of ripping up wrapping paper. Can you really blame him though? What's more fun, wrapping presents or opening them and throwing the wrapping paper all over the house?
Hopefully this family has a backup plan for wrapping paper and this wasn't their only roll. Otherwise everyone is just going to get gifts with no wrapping at all!
Christmas Photos for the Newest Member of the Family
It's a very common tradition with most families to get a yearly Christmas photo taken of everyone together. Things get even more exciting when there is a new member of the family. Although this is far from a picture of a pet destorying Christmas (quite the opposite), it is too sweet not to share. Who doesn't want to see a picture of this cute puppy celebrating Christmas for the first time ever?
This little guy seems just as excited over the holidays as most people. He is smiling widely and almost appears to be laughing or shouting for joy. Who can blame him though? Christmas is an exciting time of year.
Just Checking to See if the Tree Is OK
What else is there to do after you knock over the Christmas tree than to form a circle around it to make sure that it is ok? At least these cats didn't leave the tree to fend for itself, all alone, after knocking it to the ground. Or maybe they are just looting it of any food or yummy treats that may have fallen on its journey to the ground.
Either way, these cats look like they're up to no good as they huddle around the foot of the Christmas tree. At least they seem to be enjoying themselves!
The Only Way to Put up a Christmas Tree With a Pet Fox
Having a fox as a pet clearly comes with its challenges. Foxes are infamous for being sneaky and mischievous creatures who always manage to get their way. Imagine having one of those in the house with you at all times! It would certainly make any kind of decorations or festivities nearly impossible. Although cute and cuddly looking, you can see the disappointment in the fox's face that he cannot reach the Christmas trees.
What does the fox want to do with the Christmas trees even if he could get his hands on them? Knock them over, climb them, run around them? You will probably never know unless you get a pet fox yourself.
Two Doggos Who Just Couldn't Resist
Sometimes the temptaion is just too much to handle. These two dogs, partners in crime, decided that they had taken their self-control far enough and they would give into their cravings. Seeing two advent calendars, these dogs lunged right in...on the fifth day of Christmas. That means that each one of them ate about thirty chocolates each. Even if chocolate wasn't so dangerous to dogs, that quite a lot of chocolate!
It makes sense that these dogs have little shame for their actions. After all, their stomachs are full of chocolate...they certainly think that it was all worth it for the delicious delicacies.
Christmas With No Lights Thanks to Brownie
Brownie may have just about the cutest set of puppy dog eyes you have ever seen (and he knows how to use them), but that doesn't make him any less guilty of chewing the cord of the pre-lit Christmas tree lights until it cannot be used anymore. What this nine-month-old lab/newfie mix didn't seem to realize is that now the entire family will be left with a light-less Christmas.
Christmas without the bright, colorful lights is quite a sad picture. Although this family could probably just go buy some more lights, it seems possible that Brownie would just destroy those ones too.
Cat Proof Christmas Tree
People have started to get very creative with ways to keep the cat away from the Christmas tree. This family decided it was necessary to create an entire decoy Christmas tree just for the cat. They turned a tomato cage upside down and added a blanket to cover the top (of course it was green to maintain the aesthetic) and threw on some Christmas lights. What was the result? One very peeved and unamused cat...
The cat saw right through the humans' plot and was not happy about it in the least. You can most certainly count on some form of revenge coming soon in the house.
It's Only a Matter of Time
If there's one thing that is irresistible to cats, it is dangling objects. It doesn't matter if they are colorful or bright or fuzzy or plain, they must attack them and play with them. This family is on borrowed time with these dangling Christmas ornaments. The cat has her eye on them and it's only a matter of time before she is jumping through the air to bring them all down with her.
What looks like a pure and simple gaze at the colorful and mesmerizing ornaments, any cat owner knows is really just a look of "challenge accepted". It's almost worse that the ornaments are just out of her reach,
The Perfect Cat Punishment for Destroying Christmas
This kitty knows that she is guilty of consistently climbing up the Christmas tree every time her owners turn their backs for even just a second. You can see the guilt in her face. What did her owners decide to do to punish her every time she made a mess with the decorations? They chose to dress up their cat in a Santa-like Christmas costume for 15 minutes each time she wreaked havoc in the house.
Only the cat will be complaining about this type of punishment. Everyone else is more than happy to receive countless pictures of cats dressed up in holiday outfits. Although it must be sad for the family, at least the world is getting cute cat pictures out of the mess!
The Vacuums Are the Guardians of the Christmas Tree
Desperate times call for desperate measures. When your pets will not leave your Christmas tree alone, you're left with no other option than to bring out the big guns- the vacuum cleaners. There is hardly a pet in the world that isn't terrified of the (perfectly harmless) vacuum cleaner. So families that constantly have their decorations destroyed by pets are forced to get creative and defend their Christmas trees with none other than multiple vacuum cleaners.
Just in case one vacuum cleaner was not enough, they brought out a second one to ward away any animals brave enough to pass the barrier. Do you think it'll work?
Revenge Against the Postman
Most dogs don't like the postman. For whatever reason, they are considered the largest and most dangerous threat to possibly cross the threshold of their territory. Whether it's barking at them constantly or chasing them out of the yard, postmen struggle with the dogs. This doggo took things to a different level when he decided to eat all of the cookies that his owner made as a gift to the UPS delivery man.
It's a happy holiday for the doggo, but now the UPS man will be missing some nice homemade cookies. Maybe the owner will make another batch and keep them far away from this hungry pooch.
Say Goodbye to Christmas Dinner
He had his eyes on the meat for hours, but the family was in the kitchen cooking so his chance never came. They stepped out for just a minute and the dog seized the opportunity. One enormous turkey sitting right on the counter. It only took one jump and one bite to pull it down in a scramble and singlehandedly ruin an entire family's Christmas dinner. Where are they going to get a replacement turkey now?
It makes you wonder who was photographing this event take place instead of saving the family turkey from the dog's jaws? Was it really worth the photograph?
Things Got Ugly in This Year's Holiday Photo
everyone is used to seeing crying, uncooperative children in family photos, with faces red from screaming and lying on the floor in a tantrum. But how many times have you seen someone's pets throwing a fit? These doggos simply were not interested in participating in a family photo...at all. The little dog seems to be barking unpleasantly while the big dog went as far as to kick his owner right in the face!
Even if they didn't get the family photo they originally planned on, at least they got a funny picture out of it! The dog kicking the woman seems so satisfied with his work as well!
It Was Just Too Tempting
Who doesn't love a good gingerbread cookie? Maybe it's just the excitement that they only are available for certain seasons of the year or perhaps it's truly just one of the best cookies around. Regardless, this dog just couldn't resist. The spicy ginger smell was too tempting and she grabbed one of the tasty treats. She even brought it to his parents before eating it, just to make sure it was allowed.
Hopefully this was the only cookie she managed to get ahold of, or the family may find themselves slaving away in the kitchen for a few more hours trying to make a whole new batch.
Baby Jesus Has Been Replaced by a Cat
This cat has absolutely no shame in replacing the main character of the nativity scene, literally displacing the baby doll from its manger. They do say that cats always have to be the center of attention, and this cat seems to be the perfect example! What better way to get everyone's attention than to sit right in the place of baby Jesus himself in the church nativity scene?
It doesn't seem like this cat has much care or respect for this holiday as he shamelessly sits in the manger. Or maybe he just wanted a new and comfortable place to rest.
Maybe Not the Best Idea to Wrap a Cat
This is more of an example of humans ruining Christmas rather than the pets. Although it's a great idea to get a new pet cat for Christmas, this method of wrapping the cat is a bit questionable. The idea of wrapping it like an actual present is sweet, but it was not executed well at all. Maybe there is a reason most people tend to just put a ribbon or a bow around the neck of new pets.
The cat doesn't look too thrilled about his situation either. Although he's probably very happy in his new home, he would certainly have preferred a nice blue ribbon to show him off instead.
Fresh Pine Tree Breath
This dog's face shows that he is guilty, very guilty of chewing away at multiple branches of the Christmas tree. In case the owners weren't 100% sure it was him, just one whiff of his pine-fresh breath would prove the truth. After all, you can't chew away at the extremely fragrant leaves for that long and expect not to have some evidence left behind.
Although it's certainly not an ideal situation, it is better than having a dog with bad breath!
The Most Responsible Dog Around
Sometimes accidents do happen. It's not always intentional sabotage. This dog is clearly in the former category and after knocking over the family Christmas tree, he felt immediate remorse. Instead of just leaving someone else to clean up his mess, he went and got the tools to clean it up himself (or at least help his owners clean it up).
What a good doggo, you can't possibly stay mad at him for more than just a few minutes, despite the damage that was done.
One Muppet Is Not Like the Others
Holidays costumes are a fun and cute way to dress up and feel the holiday spirit. All the little stuffed animals look quite happy and joyous as is appropriate for the season, but the cat in the background is certainly not interested in taking part in the festivities. On the contrary, he looks quite angry about the entire situation and is waiting for the opportunity to run at any second.
It is surprising that the family even got the cat to stay there long enough to take a picture without him moving and trying to run away.