The holiday season is
upon us, and many pet parents plan to include their furry companions in the
festivities. As you gear up for the holidays, it is important to try to keep
your pet's eating and exercise habits as close to their normal routine as
possible. Also, please be sure to steer pets clear of the following unhealthy
treats, toxic plants and dangerous decorations.
Be Careful with
Seasonal Plants and Decorations
·
Oh, Christmas Tree: Securely
anchor your Christmas tree so it doesn't tip and fall, causing possible injury
to your pet. This will also prevent the tree water—which may contain
fertilizers that can cause stomach upset—from spilling. Stagnant tree water is
a breeding ground for bacteria, and your pet could end up with nausea or
diarrhea should he imbibe.
·
Avoid Mistletoe &
Holly: Holly, when ingested, can cause pets to suffer nausea, vomiting and
diarrhea. Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular
problems. And many varieties of lilies can cause kidney failure in cats if
ingested. Opt for just-as-jolly artificial plants made from silk or plastic, or
choose a pet-safe bouquet.
·
Tinsel-less Town: Kitties
love this sparkly, light-catching "toy" that's easy to bat around and
carry in their mouths. But a nibble can lead to a swallow, which can lead to an
obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting, dehydration and possible surgery.
It's best to brighten your boughs with something other than tinsel.
·
That Holiday Glow: Don't
leave lighted candles unattended. Pets may burn themselves or cause a fire if
they knock candles over. Be sure to use appropriate candle holders, placed on a
stable surface. And if you leave the room, put the candle out!
·
Wired Up: Keep
wires, batteries and glass or plastic ornaments out of paws' reach. A wire can
deliver a potentially lethal electrical shock and a punctured battery can cause
burns to the mouth and esophagus, while shards of breakable ornaments can
damage your pet's mouth and digestive tract.
Avoid Holiday Food
Dangers
·
Skip the Sweets: By
now you know not to feed your pets chocolate and anything sweetened with
xylitol, but do you know the lengths to which an enterprising pet will go to
chomp on something yummy? Make sure to keep your pets away from the table and
unattended plates of food, and be sure to secure the lids on garbage cans.
·
Leave the Leftovers: Fatty,
spicy and no-no human foods, as well as bones, should not be fed to your furry
friends. Pets can join the festivities in other fun ways that won't lead to
costly medical bills.
·
Careful with
Cocktails: If your celebration includes adult holiday beverages, be sure
to place your unattended alcoholic drinks where pets cannot get to them. If
ingested, your pet could become weak, ill and may even go into a coma, possibly
resulting in death from respiratory failure.
·
Selecting Special
Treats: Looking to stuff your pet's stockings? Stick with chew toys that
are basically indestructible, Kongs that can be stuffed with healthy foods or
chew treats that are designed to be safely digestible. Long, stringy things are
a feline's dream, but the most risky toys for cats involve ribbon, yarn and
loose little parts that can get stuck in the intestines, often necessitating
surgery. Surprise kitty with a new ball that's too big to swallow, a stuffed
catnip toy or the interactive cat dancer.
Please visit our People Foods to
Avoid Feeding Your Pets page for more information.
Plan a Pet-Safe
Holiday Gathering
·
House Rules: If
your animal-loving guests would like to give your pets a little extra attention
and exercise while you're busy tending to the party, ask them to feel free to
start a nice play or petting session.
·
Put the Meds Away: Make
sure all of your medications are locked behind secure doors, and be sure to
tell your guests to keep their meds zipped up and packed away, too.
·
A Room of Their Own: Give
your pet his own quiet space to retreat to—complete with fresh water and a
place to snuggle. Shy pups and cats might want to hide out under a piece of
furniture, in their carrying case or in a separate room away from the hubbub.
·
New Year's Noise: As
you count down to the new year, please keep in mind that strings of thrown
confetti can get lodged in a cat's intestines, if ingested, perhaps
necessitating surgery. Noisy poppers can terrify pets and cause possible damage
to sensitive ears. And remember that many pets are also scared of fireworks, so
be sure to secure them in a safe, escape-proof area as midnight approaches.
