The Holiday Season

We all know that the holidays are equal parts chaos and joy, and we can’t forget to include our pets in that mayhem. From foods to plants to travel plans, this upcoming time of year can be a haphazard time for our four-legged family members.

Food – There tends to be a lot of treats and cooking that occurs around this time, and many of our pets are quick to try to catch a bite. Be sure to keep uncooked dough, bones, fat trimmings, chocolates, and other candies out of reach. Don’t forget that foods containing raisins and macadamia nuts can be deadly. If you are unsure if what your pet just ate is toxic or not, call your veterinarian or one of the poison control numbers listed below. You may be instructed to induce vomiting or bring your pet straight to a hospital for immediate care.

Plants/trees – Holly and mistletoe are poisonous when eaten. Poinsettias can cause gastric distress if chewed. While not a common flower around this time of year, it is always important to remember that lilies are deadly to cats. While pine needles can be toxic and cause massive gastrointestinal irritation if ingested, the tree itself can also be problematic if a pet tries to climb it or knocks it over with their tail. Pets can also electrocute themselves or start fires if they chew the cords. Keep them away from the tree and make sure your tree is anchored to your wall. If you have a real tree, don’t allow them to drink the water and avoid putting any sugar or aspirin in the water. 

Ornaments/string – Ornaments, tinsel and ribbon are enticing to our pets and eating them is one of their first thoughts when they encounter them. These can cause intestinal obstructions, which can be life threatening and require surgery. Broken ornaments can also cause injuries if chewed or stepped on. Lastly, some homemade ornaments can contain toxic levels of salt and would be very dangerous if ingested.

Company/Travel – Whether you’re traveling or having guests over, this can be a stressful time for your pet. Be sure they have a calm space to hang out if they prefer to be away from people, and be sure that they cannot accidentally sneak out of the house in all the commotion. If you are traveling with your pet, be sure you have all of their medications and medical information if needed. If your pet gets particularly anxious during this time of year, be sure you have the appropriate calming supplements or medications at home to help them get through it. Update their collars with your contact information in case they do manage to escape and always know your closest emergency veterinarian.

Wishing everyone a safe and joyous holiday season!

Here are some helpful resources during this time:

https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/dogs-plant-list
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/cats-plant-list
https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/people-foods-avoid-feeding-your-pets
ASPCA Animal Poison Control 888-426-4435
https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/ - Helpline 855-764-7661