While everyone is going to be celebrating the holidays in a different way this year, the season still poses some hazards and threats to our pets. Nothing can spoil good cheer like a lost pet or an emergency trip to the veterinarian, so keep these tips in mind when decorating and celebrating.
While I might think the garland of pretty blue and silver felt balls stretched across my fireplace will make the perfect Hanukkah decoration, my cats see it as a fun new toy — one that must be investigated and, of course, pulled down as soon as possible. So when I decorate I try to ask myself, “Is this truly out of paw’s reach?”
Not only can decorations be destroyed by our pets, they can also be dangerous. Place candles where curious kitties and dogs can’t easily knock them over and suffer burns. Keep electrical cords and wires out of reach, especially around our bunny friends and teething puppies that may try to nibble on them.
Ribbons and bows can look like playthings to cats, but can be harmful if swallowed. They can become wrapped around a cat’s intestine or cause a blockage, requiring emergency surgery. If you suspect your cat has swallowed something like that, see your veterinarian right away.
During the frenzy of Christmas and Hanukkah present-opening, it’s best to confine pets. Baby gates work well by keeping smaller dogs restricted. Dog crates may be an option for larger dogs. For cats, a closed bedroom solves the problem.
We all love festive holiday foods but many can send your pets seriously ill. Onions can lead to anemia. Raisins, chocolate and alcoholic beverages are toxic to pets. And rich, fatty foods, such as gravy, can contribute to pancreatitis, a painful condition characterized by vomiting and lethargy that requires emergency veterinary care. Baking string, plastic wrap and aluminum foil can cause severe digestive problems or obstruction. Finally, remember that chicken and turkey bones can become a choking hazard.
For that reason, keep your pets out of the kitchen during food prep and clean up, away from the holiday table, and out of the garbage.
While no one will (or should) be hosting or attending big gatherings, loud noises and bright lights can sometimes leave pets feeling confused and out of sorts. This stress can exacerbate pre-existing conditions, or just cause your pets to act “off.” Dad dressed as Santa bursting through the door carrying a big sack and loudly exclaiming, “Ho! Ho! Ho,” might delight the kids but may also might scare the wits out of a dog already on alert.
Be sure your pets are microchipped and wearing collars with ID tags. Holiday excitement and open doors can be a bad mix for obvious reasons.
While a lot of holiday stress will likely be lowered this year thanks to smaller gatherings, less travel and a reprieve from that annoying relative, remember that our pets are still sensitive to our moods and even small changes in the home. Be sure to give them extra love and reassurance (Hey, we could all use a little more of that right now).
Lisa Bloch is the director of marketing and communications for Marin Humane, which contributes Tails of Marin articles and welcomes animal-related questions about our community. Go to marinhumane.org, Twitter.com/MarinHumane, or email lbloch@marinhumane.org.
