Pet-safe tips for the festive season

Festive food can be poisonous to pets

What’s delicious to us can be toxic and dangerous to our four-legged friends:

• Chocolate: It contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and cats. Dark chocolate is especially dangerous.

• Grapes, raisins, and currants: Found in Christmas pudding, fruitcake, and mince pies, these can cause kidney failure.

• Cooked bones: They might splinter and cause internal damage or choking.

• Onions, garlic, and chives: Common in stuffing and gravy, these can harm red blood cells and lead to anaemia.

• Xylitol: A sugar substitute often found in sugar-free gum and sweets - it’s incredibly toxic to pets, even in small amounts.

• Ham, gravy, and rich meats: High salt and fat content can cause stomach upsets

Keep an eye out for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or difficulty breathing. If you suspect your pet has eaten something they shouldn’t, call your vet immediately.

Alcohol

Alcohol is a definite no-no for pets. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, difficulty breathing, and worse. Make sure to keep mulled wine, champagne, and beer well out of reach, and clean up spills promptly.

The Tree

• Ornaments: Glass or plastic baubles can shatter, causing cuts or internal injuries. Hang breakable decorations high up, out of reach.

• Tinsel and ribbons: Cats, in particular, love these sparkly items, but swallowing them can lead to choking or blockages.

• Tree lights: Chewing on cords could result in electric shocks. Keep cords hidden or use protective covers.

• Edible decorations: Candy canes, chocolate ornaments, and popcorn garlands might smell irresistible but are a big no-no for pets.

Gift wrappings

Wrapping paper, ribbons, and bows might seem like fun toys, but if swallowed, they can cause serious issues, including intestinal blockages. Clear everything away as soon as the gift giving is over.

Festive plants

• Mistletoe: Can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and difficulty breathing.

• Poinsettias: The sap can irritate your pet’s mouth and stomach.

• Holly and ivy: Both can cause severe tummy troubles if ingested.

• Lillies: Highly toxic to cats, even in small amounts.

If you love festive greenery, you could opt for artificial alternatives or pet-safe plants.

Create a safe space

Christmas can be overwhelming, with visitors, loud music, and changes to your routine. Even the most social pets need a quiet spot to retreat:

• Set up a cosy area with their bed, toys, and maybe some calming music or the TV playing softly.

• Make sure they can access their safe space at all times, especially during noisy gatherings or when fireworks go off.

• For dogs, a stuffed Kong or other toys can keep them occupied while you entertain guests.

Final tips

• Update their ID: Ensure your pet’s ID tags and microchip details are up to date in case they get spooked and run off.

• Vet contact info: Keep your vet’s number handy, along with details for the nearest emergency clinic.

• Supervise: Keep a close eye on pets around new or exciting objects, especially if they’re the mischievous type!

Source: RSPCA