Holiday Safety Tips for Pets: Keeping Your Furry Friends Safe During the Festive Season

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and family gatherings – and for many of us, that includes our beloved pets. However, the festivities can also bring hidden dangers for your furry friends. From shiny decorations to tempting holiday treats, it’s important to keep your pet’s safety in mind while you enjoy the season.

Here are some essential tips to ensure your pets stay safe and happy during the holiday season.

1. Be Careful with Holiday Decorations

Festive decorations like tinsel, ornaments, and fairy lights can be irresistible to curious pets. Unfortunately, they can also pose serious risks.

• Tinsel & Ribbons: Cats, in particular, are drawn to shiny objects like tinsel and ribbons. Ingesting these can cause intestinal blockages that may require surgery. Keep these decorations out of reach.
• Ornaments: Glass ornaments can easily break, leaving sharp pieces on the floor. If your pet steps on or tries to play with broken ornaments, they can get injured. Opt for shatterproof decorations when possible.
• Fairy Lights: Pets, especially puppies and kittens, might chew on electric cords. Keep lights out of reach or use cord covers to prevent accidents.

Useful Link:

Learn more about holiday pet hazards from Blue Cross.

2. Watch Out for Toxic Foods

The holidays bring delicious treats, but not all human food is safe for pets. Some holiday foods can be harmful or even toxic to them.

• Chocolate: Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and cats. Keep all chocolate treats well out of reach, including those in stockings or wrapped under the tree.
• Grapes and Raisins: Commonly found in holiday cakes and puddings, these can cause kidney failure in dogs.
• Alcohol: Even a small amount of alcohol can be dangerous for pets. Make sure to keep drinks out of reach, and dispose of leftovers properly.

Useful Link:

For a full list of foods to avoid, check out the PDSA’s guide to toxic foods for pets.

3. Keep Holiday Plants Out of Reach

While holiday plants can add a festive touch to your home, many are toxic to pets.

• Poinsettias: Though not as deadly as once believed, poinsettias can cause vomiting and irritation if ingested by your pet.
• Mistletoe & Holly: Both of these plants can cause more serious issues like gastrointestinal upset and even heart problems in pets.
• Christmas Trees: Real Christmas trees may have sharp needles that can irritate your pet’s mouth or paws. Also, stagnant tree water can contain harmful bacteria or chemicals.

Useful Link:

For more information on holiday plant safety, visit The Pet Poison Helpline’s guide to poisonous plants.

4. Manage Holiday Stress

The holidays often bring new sounds, visitors, and changes in routine, which can stress your pet. Here’s how to help them cope:

• Create a Quiet Space: Ensure your pet has a quiet, comfortable area where they can retreat if the festivities become too overwhelming.
• Maintain Routine: Try to stick to your pet’s regular feeding, walking, and playtime schedule as much as possible. This helps them feel more secure.
• Keep an Eye on the Door: With guests coming and going, make sure your pet doesn’t slip out unnoticed. Consider using baby gates or keeping your pet in a separate room if needed.

Useful Link:

For tips on reducing pet anxiety, explore the RSPCA's guide on keeping pets calm.

5. Supervise Gift Wrapping

The fun of wrapping gifts can quickly turn hazardous for pets. Wrapping paper, tape, ribbons, and bows can be enticing toys, but they can cause blockages or choking if ingested.

• Clean Up Quickly: Once you're done with the gift-wrapping, clean up any discarded materials immediately to prevent your pet from playing with or eating them.
• Supervise Unwrapping: When it’s time to open presents, keep a close eye on your pet, especially around small items or sharp tools like scissors.