Glittering Glass Baubles
The lights, tinsel and shine of holiday decorations can be too much for your pet to resist. Unfortunately, breakable glass ornaments could cut tongues and paws, and though seemingly harmless, tinsel could cause obstruction and even cutting of the intestines if ingested by a pet. Take care to place tinsel and fragile ornaments out of your pet’s reach.
Pretty but Poisonous
Holly, mistletoe and poinsettias are lovely, but these holiday favourites can cause distress to your cat or dog if ingested. Mistletoe and holly are poisonous and may drop berries on the floor, which could be eaten even if the plants themselves are out of reach. The sap and leaves of the poinsettia, while not poisonous, can cause gastric distress to your pets. Consider silk plants instead. No one will know but you and your pet — and your pet will thank you for it.
Tempting Treats
Although it can be tempting to share your food with your furry friends, it’s important to keep it to yourself. Chocolate, alcohol, macadamia nuts, coffee and tea all can cause health problems for pets. Take care with turkey and chicken bones, fat trimmings, gravy, and stuffing, too. All of these can harm your pet’s digestive system. And be sure to pet-proof your trash can — bones can end up splintered in your pet’s intestines. Finally, watch out for cocktails and eggnog left unattended by party guests. Alcohol is a toxin to pets.
Candles and Cords
Try covering candles with hurricane lanterns or other covers and be sure glowing fires have screens to protect pets from straying sparks. To protect pets from the dangers of holiday lights and other decorations, tack cords down and cover them. Wherever possible, keep the cords out of your pet's reach by taping holiday lights to the wall.
Privacy, Please
Planning a holiday gathering? If possible, prepare a closed, quiet room for your pets to escape to. Aside from the need for occasional refuge, pets must be protected from well-meaning friends and relatives who might slip them scraps, forget to close doors and leave potentially toxic food and drink unattended and within your pet's reach.
Reassuring Routine
Changes in routine during the holidays can create stress for cats and dogs, so try to keep pets on their regular walking, feeding and playing schedule. For added reassurance, plan some downtime during which you spend a little quality time with them.
