Holiday Safety for Pets: Keeping the Season Merry, Bright—and Vet-Free

Dr. Zeke Zekoff
Apr 3
2 min read

The holiday season brings joy, celebration, and togetherness—but it also introduces a host of new risks for our pets. From festive foods to sparkly decor, the things we love about the holidays can quickly become hazardous to our four-legged companions.

Whether you're hosting a gathering, decorating the tree, or buying special treats, here’s what every pet owner should know to ensure a safe, happy holiday.

🍗 Holiday Foods: What’s Delicious for You Could Be Dangerous for Them

Many traditional holiday treats can cause serious issues for pets:

Rich, fatty foods like gravy and meat trimmings may trigger pancreatitis, causing vomiting and abdominal pain.
Alcohol is extremely toxic to pets—even small amounts can be fatal. Don’t leave half-empty glasses where curious noses can find them.
Chocolate, coffee, and tea contain xanthines that affect the heart and nervous system—especially dangerous for dogs.
Uncooked meat or dough can harbor harmful bacteria or cause life-threatening digestive expansion.
Toxic treats like grapes, raisins, xylitol (found in sugar-free candy), and macadamia nuts should never be shared.

Pro tip: Feed your pets before guests arrive to reduce begging and accidental snacking, and always secure your garbage.

🌿 Hazardous Holiday Plants

Beautiful seasonal plants can cause serious illness:

Holly and mistletoe may upset the stomach and even lead to heart issues.
Poinsettias can cause blistering or vomiting from their sap.
Lilies are particularly dangerous for cats and can lead to kidney failure.

Stick to pet-safe plants or high-quality imitations.

🎁 Dangers in Decorations and Wrapping

What’s festive to us can be fatal to pets:

Tinsel, ribbons, yarn, and string are a major choking or intestinal blockage hazard.
Candles and essential oils can cause burns or toxic reactions.
Adhesives, batteries, and potpourri should be kept far out of reach.
Christmas tree water can contain bacteria, chemicals, or preservatives that are harmful if ingested.

Even a tug on a hanging tablecloth can send a whole spread crashing down. Consider gating off your tree or decorating with pet-safe materials.

🐶 Visitors and Stress: Not All Pets Love Company

Some pets love the party. Others hide under the bed. If your pet is easily overwhelmed, give them a quiet room with food and water to retreat to. Inform guests of house rules and keep doors shut to prevent escapes.

🎁 New Pets and Gift Giving

While it may seem heartwarming to surprise someone with a puppy, the holidays are not an ideal time for a new pet. A calm, structured environment is better for bonding and training. Consider gifting pet supplies or books instead—and adopt after the holidays.

🧸 Pet Gifts and Treats

When shopping for pet presents:

Avoid toys with small parts that can be swallowed.
Choose healthy treats, and give in moderation.
Spend time with your pet—that’s their favorite gift.

Final Thought

A little prevention goes a long way. With planning and awareness, you can keep your pets safe and stress-free during the holidays—and avoid that emergency vet visit.

After all, the greatest gift you can give your furry friend this season is a safe, cozy, and love-filled home.