Have a Pet Safe Christmas

We all love Christmas! But, whilst we're busy getting wrapped up in the festive fun, we may forget to think about the effect Christmas can have on our pets.

Festive Food

Festive food is delicious to us but to our pets much of it is highly toxic and dangerous.

Take a look at the list below to ensure you're not giving treats that can make your pet unwell:

Poisonous Food For Pets

Chocolate
Mince pies
Christmas pudding
Onion gravy
Alcohol
Bones from carcasses are a dangerous choking hazard.

What can pets eat?

Skinless and boneless white meat such as turkey is okay for cats and dogs, but be careful that it's not covered in fat, salt or gravy.

It's best to keep to your pets eating their appropriate food.

Christmas Trees & Decorations

Festive food isn't the only hazard to consider around Christmas time, some household items can also be dangerous. Some plants and flowers including poinsettias, holly, ivy, mistletoe and lilies can be toxic, so avoid these if you have pets.

Tinsel and wrapping paper might be tempting for your pet to play with but make sure they don't eat it!

Christmas Trees & Pets

It'll be best to only allow pets around the tree when they can be supervised, as:

Hanging edible decorations, like chocolate, are poisonous to dogs and can cause severe damage to their health
Cats and dogs might be tempted to chew or play with hanging tree decorations.

Help Your Pet Cope With Christmas Chaos

Christmas can be stressful for pets. The change in routine, visitors, children, loud music and decorations can all worry them.

Here are our top tips for helping cats and dogs to have a stress-free Christmas:

Try to keep food, exercise, bed and toilet break routines the same as consistency can help pets feel more secure.
If you have guests coming over, let your dog or cat meet people at their own pace.
Give them somewhere cosy and quiet to retreat to, away from all the excitement, where they won't be disturbed by anyone. Leave toys there to help them associate the area with positive experiences.
For cats, you can also give some hidey-holes to retreat to in case they feel unsure. Try on top of wardrobes or under furniture - even cardboard boxes can make good hiding places.
Although Christmas is a busy time and there's a lot to do and people to see, be careful about leaving your pet alone for any period which might cause them distress.
If you're spending Christmas day with friends or family and your dog is coming with you, take something which smells familiar, like their bed, to help them feel secure. Take some of their favourite toys and chews to help keep them entertained.

Advice For All

Keep a number of an emergency vet on hand in case of accidents or if your pet eats something they shouldn't.
If your pet is on medication, stock up before the holidays so you don't get caught out.
If you're going away over Christmas, be sure to make plans for your pets - whether they're coming with you or not.