It’s a wonderful time of the year but we appreciate that it can present a bit of a minefield for pet owners! With so much to prepare for over the festive season, the excitement of presents, the visitors and all that great food, it’s easy to overlook how your pet can be affected. Here are some considerations to help, as you plan out your festivities:
1. Rockin’ around the Christmas tree!
In the home, a genuine Christmas tree can look and smell fantastic. However, bear in mind that any falling pine needles could pose a choking threat to your pet or become readily stuck in their paws, so keep the area clean. Leaving your pet alone with the tree, is a potential hazard, especially for cats who enjoy climbing!
2. Treats?
Many popular holiday meals can be toxic to cats, dogs, and other pets, causing gastrointestinal and even neurological problems if consumed. Chocolate, cheese, nuts, grapes, and mince pies are just a few examples of foods to avoid. Even leftover turkey bones can be harmful, so best to avoid sharing those butter-slathered potatoes.
3. Dazzling decorations
What is Christmas without some decorations to adorn your home? Those colourful baubles and glittering lights can appear to be very appealing toys for your pet to play with or even chew on! The leads of those nice lights and glitter strings can also be a hazard, so be cautious while arranging them to avoid your pet becoming ‘wrapped up’ and tangled in tinsel.
Other items which can present a risk to pets and cause a trip to vets include ribbons on presents, disposable batteries, and even plants such as mistletoe, holly and ivy.
4. A safe space
The festive season generally means changes to the usual flow of the household, with Christmas commotion coming from a change of routine, people arriving, music playing, and lights flashing. This might be uncomfortable for your pet. Therefore, ensure they have a safe, warm place to retreat to, should they wish, with easy access to fresh water and food, blankets, and their favourite toys. Don’t force interactions, and be mindful of pet body language.
It’s also a good idea, especially if you’re travelling, to keep their typical pattern as much as possible, such as feeding them at the same time every day, walking etc. Also, wherever you go, bring something with you that smells familiar to help your pet feel secure.
To find out more about how we help animals all year round head here
Wishing you a great Christmas from all at the RSPCA!
RSPCA South London - For Every Kind Of Creature 