Pets love the holidays just as much as you. Keep them safe and cheerful by covering all your bases and taking caution before anything bad happens. Securing the tree and keeping wires hidden are a no-brainer. Here are a few more things to keep in mind to keep dogs and cats safe for the holidays.
No escaping! The holidays can be hectic with many family members and friends walking in and out of the doors, especially on the day of. Place coins in an empty soda can and seal the top off with tape. You can use this as a rattle to shake and clear the entry way before guests come and go. Also consider giving your pet a room of their own where they can retreat to eat and rest in peace.
Watch the flames! Don’t put candles in an area where your cat can knock them off a ledge or sweep its tail through. Maybe rid candles all together and alternatively use a non-toxic air freshener or electric candles.
Trees without tinsel: Tinsel can be very tempting for kittens and cats alike. Unfortunately, if cats put it in their mouths during play, they will habitually swallow it since its long shape makes it hard to reverse and spit out. Ingesting tinsel can block their intestines and may even require surgery.
Strategic ornament placement: Kitties like to climb in trees and bat at ornaments from the ground. Dogs may knock ornaments completely off the tree as they clumsily walk by. Place soft ornaments towards the bottom to avoid broken glass and choking hazards. In addition, place all edible ornaments far from reach or they may entice your pets.
Choose plants wisely: Holly, mistletoe, and poinsettia plants are poisonous to dogs and cats. Pine needles can also be hazardous if ingested, they can puncture the pet’s intestines.
Is that food safe? You may already know to keep chocolate and alcohol away from cat and dogs. Your dog should also avoid grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, and anything sweetened with xylitol. Be wary of overfeeding your pets too.
That’s not edible! Did you know that ingesting antifreeze can be fatal to dogs and cats too? Some snow globes contain antifreeze. Be sure to keep these out of reach where they can’t be broken either. Also be mindful of giftwrap and decorations.
We hope you find these suggestions helpful and wish you and your pets the most cheerful and happiest of holidays from all of us at Portage Park Animal Hospital.
