Holiday Pet Safety: What Every Pet Owner Should Know This Season

The holiday season brings together family, food, and festivities—but it also comes with a surprising number of hazards for our pets. While decking the halls and planning parties, it’s easy to overlook how dangerous decorations, rich foods, and busy gatherings can be to our furry companions. Fortunately, with a few mindful adjustments, you can ensure your pets stay healthy and safe while still enjoying the holiday cheer.

Keep Decorations and Plants Pet-Safe

Holiday décor is festive, but it can also be a source of injury or illness.

• Christmas trees should be securely anchored to avoid tipping. The water used in tree stands can contain bacteria or fertilizers that upset a pet’s stomach.

• Mistletoe, holly, and lilies can be toxic when ingested. Symptoms range from nausea and vomiting to cardiovascular or kidney complications. Artificial plants are a safer alternative.

• Tinsel and ribbon pose serious risks to cats, who often swallow shiny, string-like items, which can lead to intestinal blockages requiring emergency surgery.

• Candles should be placed out of reach. Curious pets can easily knock them over, leading to burns or even house fires.

• Wires, batteries, and breakable ornaments should be kept away from paws and mouths. Electrical shocks and internal injuries are real risks.

Say No to Holiday Table Scraps

While it’s tempting to include pets in every aspect of the celebration, many holiday foods can be harmful.

• Chocolate, xylitol, grapes, raisins, alcohol, and caffeine are among the most dangerous substances for pets. Even small amounts can be fatal.

• Fatty and spicy foods can lead to gastrointestinal distress or pancreatitis.

• Leftovers with bones can cause choking or serious internal injuries if bones splinter inside the digestive tract.

• Raw dough is especially hazardous. It can rise in your pet’s stomach and produce alcohol, causing bloating and intoxication.

Instead of people food, give your pet a special treat made for them—like a durable chew toy or a healthy, vet-approved snack.

Prep Your Home for Guests (and Your Pet)

Visitors can add stress to pets, especially if they’re not used to commotion.

• Create a quiet retreat where your pet can rest away from the noise. Provide water, a bed, and a few familiar items.

• Inform your guests about your pet’s behavior and house rules, such as not feeding table scraps or being careful when opening doors.

• Secure medications, both yours and your guests’. Pets may be tempted to chew through bags or pill bottles, with dangerous consequences.

• Watch out for New Year’s noise: Confetti, noisemakers, and fireworks can terrify pets. Keep them in a secure, escape-proof area when things get loud.

Foods to Avoid at All Costs

The ASPCA lists numerous people foods that are dangerous for pets, including:

• Alcohol

• Chocolate and caffeine

• Grapes and raisins

• Macadamia nuts

• Onions, garlic, and chives

• Raw or undercooked meat and eggs

• Salty snacks

• Xylitol (found in sugar-free gum and peanut butter)

• Yeast dough

If you suspect your pet has ingested something dangerous, contact your veterinarian or a poison control hotline immediately.

Important numbers to have on hand:

• ASPCA Animal Poison Control: 1-888-426-4435

• Pet Poison Helpline: 1-800-213-6680

Final Thoughts

The holidays should be a joyful time for the whole family—including the four-legged members. With thoughtful planning and awareness, you can help your pet stay healthy, happy, and safe all season long. And at the end of the day, a quiet snuggle by the fire with your best friend might just be the best gift of all.

HOLIDAY SAFETY and FOOD TIPS.pdf

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