In Flagstaff, the chill in the air brings a sense of hope and delight to people and pets alike! ‘Tis the season of joy, good cheer, and tasty treats. As the holidays approach, it’s easy to get wrapped up in the planning of meals and decorating of hearths. But for pet owners, it’s important to consider how your holiday cheer may impact your furry friends if they get into the wrong box of treats! From tinsel to trees, this guide covers common holiday hazards, including toxic plants, risky decorations, and holiday foods to avoid, so you and your pets can enjoy a worry-free holiday season instead of an emergency trip to your local veterinarian.
3 Holiday Plants That Are Toxic to Pets
The greenery that adds holiday cheer to our homes can be risky for pets. Here are three infamous holiday plants to watch out for:
1. Poinsettias
Known for their festive red leaves, poinsettias are mildly toxic to both cats and dogs. While not life-threatening, ingestion can cause drooling, vomiting, or skin irritation. Keeping poinsettias out of reach or opting for fake versions can reduce the risk of a pet munching on these pretty but pesky plants.
2. Mistletoe
Far more hazardous, mistletoe can cause severe digestive upset, difficulty breathing, excessive drooling, and even heart issues if ingested. The pectins and phoratoxins present in the plant are most potent in the berries, but the entire plant is toxic to pets. Avoid hanging mistletoe within your pet’s reach, or consider alternatives like artificial greenery for that holiday charm without the risk.
3. Holly
Those bright red berries might look harmless, but holly can cause digestive issues, including vomiting and diarrhea. Some pets might even experience respiratory issues or even heart problems if they nibble on the plant’s spiny leaves. Keep holly decorations high or out of reach, or skip them altogether in favor of safer options.
Prevention Tips
If you love decorating with greenery, consider pet-safe plants or artificial alternatives. It’s an easy swap to ensure your pet stays safe and your holiday décor stays beautiful!
3 Holiday Decorations to Watch Out For
While decorations make your home merry and bright, they can also present some serious risks for pets. Here are three popular items to be mindful of:
1. Christmas Trees
The iconic Christmas tree is a magnet for pets. Falling trees, sharp needles, and toxic tree water are just a few hazards. Cats, especially, love to climb, which can lead to toppled trees and broken ornaments. To keep your tree pet-friendly, make sure it’s anchored securely, avoid adding any additives to tree water, and consider using an artificial tree if your pet tends to nibble on branches.
2. Lights & Electrical Cords
Twinkling lights add a cozy glow, but they also mean cords – lots of them. Pets who chew on cords risk burns or electrocution. To keep them safe, tuck cords out of reach or use cord protectors. For extra security, unplug lights when you’re not around to supervise.
3. Ornaments & Tinsel
Fragile ornaments, shiny tinsel, and loose hooks can be irresistible to pets but are quite dangerous. Broken glass from ornaments poses a risk of cuts, while tinsel can lead to choking or even an intestinal blockage if swallowed. Opt for shatterproof ornaments and skip the tinsel to ensure your pet stays safe around the tree.
Prevention Tips
Keep fragile items high up and out of reach, or consider pet-friendly, shatterproof ornaments. A few small adjustments can make a big difference in creating a safe holiday environment for your pets! Tinsel is lots of fun, but be careful with where it goes. If it gets on the floor and your dog or cat sneaks a snack, it won’t be as bright and cheery if you end up at the vet with a blockage.
Holiday Food Do’s & Don’ts
The holidays are all about delicious food, but not all treats are safe for our pets. Here’s a quick guide on foods to avoid and some pet-friendly treats they can enjoy.
Food to Avoid
Certain festive treats are downright dangerous for pets. Avoid letting your pet sample chocolate, alcohol, nuts, grapes, and fatty meats. These can cause anything from mild digestive issues to severe toxicity. Even the smallest amount of chocolate or alcohol can be harmful, so keep human goodies far from paw’s reach.
Pet-Friendly Holiday Treats
Want to give your pet something special? Try safe options like plain, cooked pumpkin or small pieces of apple (without seeds). You could also make homemade pet treats, like peanut butter biscuits or dog-friendly holiday cookies. Check out this recipe for dog-friendly holiday cookies!
Happy Holidays Begin with Peace of Mind
By following these holiday safety tips for pets, you can keep the season safe, joyful, and stress-free. A few mindful changes to your home can go a long way in protecting your furry family members from holiday hazards. If you have questions or need more tips on pet safety, feel free to contact us at Continental Animal Wellness Center.
Cheers to a safe and happy holiday season for you and your pets!