Christmas Pet Care: Tips for a Safe and Happy Holiday Season

The festive season is a time of joy, laughter, and celebration, but for pet owners, it can also present some challenges. Christmas brings new sights, smells, and treats that can be overwhelming or even dangerous for your furry friends. To help you keep your pets safe, happy, and healthy during the holidays, we’ve compiled a list of Christmas pet care tips.

1. Beware of Holiday Foods

Christmas feasts are a highlight of the season, but many of the foods we enjoy can be harmful to pets. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Chocolate: It’s a big holiday treat for us, but chocolate is toxic to dogs and cats. Even a small amount can cause vomiting and diarrhea – larger amounts can lead to liver damage, seizures, and even death in severe cases.
• Alcohol: Keep alcoholic drinks out of reach of pets. Even small sips can be dangerous – larger amounts can be fatal.
• Grapes and Raisins: While they’re great for us, they can cause kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts. Keep mince pies and Christmas cake safely packed away in cupboards or tins.
• Onions, Garlic, and Chives: Commonly found in many recipes, these foods can cause  an upset stomach and damage to red blood cells in pets. Gravy granules may contain concentrated onion and garlic powder, so be especially careful with this.
• Bones: Both cooked and raw bones can splinter and cause serious internal damage to pets. Be sure to discard any bones that may end up in your pet’s reach.

2. Keep Decorations Pet-Safe

While festive decorations bring cheer to your home, they can pose risks to curious pets. Here are some guidelines:

• Tinsel and Garlands: Cats and dogs often find these shiny decorations irresistible, but they can cause choking or blockages in the stomach and intestines if swallowed. Keep them out of reach or avoid them altogether.
• Christmas Trees: Ensure your tree is stable to avoid it toppling over if your pet decides to explore it. Additionally, water in the tree stand can become toxic if your pet drinks it, so consider using a tree skirt or cover to block access.
• Lights and Candles: Keep candles, especially lit ones, well out of reach of your pets. Pets, particularly cats, may try to bat at the flames or knock over the candle, posing a fire hazard. Similarly, electrical cords and fairy lights should be secured to prevent chewing.

3. Watch Out for Holiday Plants

Several holiday plants can be toxic to pets. Common festive greenery such as mistletoe, holly, and poinsettias can cause an upset stomach or even more severe symptoms if ingested. To keep your pets safe, consider:

• Artificial Plants: Opting for non-toxic, artificial plants is the safest choice.
• Pet-Safe Holiday Décor: If you choose to have live plants in your home, ensure they are pet-friendly. Some non-toxic options include spider plants, Christmas cactuses, and air plants.

4. Manage Stress and Overstimulation

The hustle and bustle of Christmas can be stressful for pets. The noise, crowds, and changes to routine may cause anxiety or confusion. Here are a few things you can do to help your pets feel more comfortable:

• Create a Quiet Space: Provide your pet with a calm and quiet retreat where they can escape from the excitement.
• Stick to Routine: Try to maintain your pet’s regular feeding, walking, and sleeping schedules as much as possible to minimize stress.
• Avoid Overindulging: It’s tempting to shower pets with treats, but too many can cause an upset stomach or lead to weight gain. Stick to pet-specific treats in moderation.

5. Make Sure Your Pets Tag & Microchip Details are Up-to-Date

With so many people coming and going during the holidays, the possibility of your pet getting lost increases. Take a moment to:

• Update Your Pet’s ID Tags: Ensure that your pet’s collar has an ID tag with up-to-date information, including your current phone number.
• Microchipping: Microchipping your dog and cat is now a legal requirement, it’s a permanent form of identification that can help reunite you with your pet if they go missing. Please make sure the details on the database are correct.

6. Safe Gift Giving for Your Pet

Don’t forget your pets when it comes to presents! Christmas is a great time to spoil them with gifts that are both fun and safe. Look for:

• Durable Toys: Opt for pet-safe, durable toys made of non-toxic materials that are appropriate for your pet’s size and chewing habits.
• Cozy Beds and Blankets: After a long day of holiday fun, your pet will appreciate a comfy spot to curl up. Consider upgrading their bedding for the season.
• Treats and Chews: Choose healthy, pet-friendly treats that won’t upset their stomachs. Avoid giving bones or any treats that could splinter.

7. Holiday Travel: Plan Ahead

If you’re traveling over the holidays, plan ahead for your pet’s needs:

• Pet Sitters and Boarding: If you’ll be away from home, arrange for a trusted pet sitter or book a reputable boarding facility well in advance.
• Travel Safety: If you’re taking your pet along for the trip, make sure they’re safely secured in the car. Use a pet seat belt, carrier, or dog-specific travel harness to prevent distractions and keep them safe during the drive.

8. Monitor Holiday Gatherings

Guests may bring their own pets or introduce new foods and treats to your home, so it’s important to be proactive:

• Introduce Pets Slowly: If you’re hosting or attending a gathering with other pets, introduce them slowly and watch for any signs of stress or aggression.
• Visitor-Free Zones: If you have a particularly anxious pet, create a designated visitor-free zone where they can relax without being disturbed by unfamiliar people or animals.

9. Watch for Winter Hazards

Cold weather and icy conditions bring their own set of risks. Keep these in mind:

• Salt and Chemicals: Road salts and other chemicals can irritate your pet’s paws. Clean their paws after walks to prevent ingestion or irritation.
• Antifreeze: Some kinds of antifreeze are extremely toxic to pets, so take care not to spill any when filling up vehicles or using them outside.
• Cold Weather Protection: Small dogs or pets with short fur may need extra warmth. Consider getting them a cozy sweater or coat when they go outside.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure your pet has a safe, fun, and festive holiday season. Christmas is a time to create lasting memories with loved ones, and that includes your furry companions. Keep your pet’s well-being in mind as you celebrate, and they’ll be sure to enjoy the holiday magic with you.

From our family to yours—happy holidays and a healthy New Year to you and your pets!

If you have any concerns about your pet’s health or need more personalised advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We’re here to help ensure that your holiday season is as safe and joyful as possible for both you and your beloved pets.