Keeping Your Pet Safe This Holiday Season
Cats, dogs, and other animals are always a gift and make a welcome addition to holiday festivities.
However, it’s important not to get carried away with the seasonal merriment as some holiday traditions can be hazardous to our furry friends. Below are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the people and pets in your family have a healthy and happy holiday.
Be Aware of Decorative Items
Christmas Trees, Ornaments, Tinsel, etc.
Whether you’re a real or artificial tree family, one thing’s for certain: if you have a cat, they will likely want to climb on it. Both cats and dogs can enjoy playing with ornaments and other materials typically found on a Christmas tree. Climbing and toying with its decor can lead to the tree falling over and injuring your precious pet.
We suggest using a fishing line (or similar solution), secure your tree to a ceiling fan or door frame to prevent a fall.
In addition, you should keep your pets away from water in Christmas tree stands as it can be full of bacteria and make them sick.
Lights & Open Flames
We love (and need to) illuminate our spaces to feel the joy of the season, but if you have a puppy or kitty, you’ll want to be cautious. Baby animals are especially likely to chew on wires which can lead to electric shock.
We suggest going with lights that are low in voltage and purchasing chew-protective cords.
Seasonal Plants
Seasonal plants spread cheer, but they can also spread sickness in animals. When you think of the season, visuals of holly, mistletoe, and poinsettias may come to mind. Unfortunately, they can be the most harmful to animals. Mistletoe and holly contain toxicity level that can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and death (if ingested in large amounts).
We suggest If you choose to get any of the above plants, place them somewhere where it’s inaccessible for your pet. Check out this list of safe alternatives that provide the same festive effect!
Be Mindful of Foods That Aren’t Pet-Friendly
Hanukkah Treats
Most dog-owners know that chocolate and dogs do not mix. You’ll want to be especially careful when it comes to chocolate gold coins as the foil wrapping can lead to intestinal issues when digested.
In addition, make sure sufganiyot (doughnuts) and latkes are far from your pet’s reach, as it can bring on vomiting and diarrhea. Cats and dogs have a heightened risk of getting Heinz body amnea after ingesting latkes due to a signature ingredient (onions).
Christmas Dinner
While it may only seem fair for your pet to take part in your feast, you’ll want to avoid feeding them anything containing salt, citrus, xylitol (even scraps) as it can be harmful to your animal’s health.
Want to throw your dog a bone after dinner? It may seem like a great gift, but it’s not — this can cause severe health problems.
We suggest baking some treats just for them since they can’t enjoy human food!
Here’s to the Holiday & the New Year!
North Jackson Animal Clinic wishes you and your family a happy holiday season! We look forward to helping your pet remain healthy in 2021. Don’t forget to schedule your pet wellness in the new year!
