How Can I Keep My Pet Safe During the Holidays?
The holidays are a bright, cheerful time full of sparkling lights and cozy décor. But for our pets, they can pose unique risks. The team at Long Meadow Veterinary Clinic is here to help Sugar Land, Richmond, and Katy pets stay safe this winter with these 3 holiday pet safety tips.
3 Tips for Holiday Pet Safety
1. Avoid Sharing Holiday Treats with Your Pet
Although seasonal foods are one of the highlights of the holiday season—hello turkey, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole!—pets should not share in these delightful bites.
The dangers to pets abound: chocolate, xylitol (found in sugar-free sweets), onions, garlic, grapes, cooked bones, and fatty meats all pose a risk to pets. Onions, garlic, chocolate, and xylitol can cause anything from stomach upset to serious illnesses. Cooked bones can splinter and get stuck in your pet’s digestive system. Rich, fatty gravies can upset your cat or dog’s sensitive stomach.
Maintaining dog and cat safety in Katy and around is as simple as sticking to your pet’s regular diet. If you want to share the holiday cheer with your pet, aim for pet-safe treats like carrots, apples, and seasonal treats like special biscuits or jerky.
You can also offer small amounts of plain, skinless, and boneless cooked turkey to your cat or dog. Cooked pumpkin is a great choice, too. As with any treat, just don’t overdo it!
2. Decorate Wisely to Prevent Accidents
Holiday decorations are exciting for everyone—pets included. But some can be dangerous if your furry family member decides to chew or eat them.
Cats might swallow string-like décor (tinsel and ribbon are big no-nos), while dogs might chew on cords or plastic and glass ornaments.
Avoid distress, injury, and high vet bills by keeping these types of décor out of your home. If you do want to use anything with a cord—like holiday lights—consider using cord protectors or keeping the lights well out of reach of a curious kitty or pup.
Make sure you unplug all decorations before you leave your pet at home alone. And if you use a live Christmas tree, make sure to cover the water basin so your pet doesn’t drink from it. Any candles or essential oils should only be used with your supervision.
3. Create a Safe, Calm Space During Gatherings
If you’re hosting a holiday gathering, keep your pet’s comfort level in mind. Many dogs and cats feel anxious when strangers come into their personal space. Some feel the urge to run outside and into the darkness, while others might show behaviors they don’t normally exhibit.
It’s vital to make sure pets feel as comfortable as possible during any large gatherings.
Designate a quiet room as your pet’s safe haven. Put a favorite bed, toy, blanket, and treat in the room, and consider using a white noise machine to help mitigate sounds from the rest of the house.
Practice having your pet use that area in the weeks leading up to a gathering. When it’s time for a gathering, tuck your kitty or pup in their cozy space and set reminders to check on them every hour or so.
Holiday Care for Pets in Richmond, Katy, and Sugar Land
If you need help preparing your pet for the holidays, reach out to our caring team at Long Meadow Veterinary Clinic. We can help you navigate the swirl of decorations, treats, and accommodations needed for a safe and happy season.
Call us today at (832) 847-4170 to schedule an appointment.