Festive food can be poisonous to pets
Festive food is delicious, but much of it is highly toxic and dangerous to our pets. Avoid giving your cats, dogs or small furries (such as rabbits and guinea pigs) these foods as they can make them unwell:
- Chocolate
- Mince pies
- Christmas pudding
- Onion gravy
- Alcohol
- Meat on the bone
- Bones from carcasses are a dangerous choking hazard and can pose a risk of internal blockages and cause intestinal perforations.
Additionally, while rabbits and guinea pigs can eat grapes in small quantities (as they are very high in sugar), they’re poisonous to cats and dogs.
Christmas foods safe for pets
Skinless and boneless white meat such as turkey is okay for dogs and cats, but be careful that it's not covered in fat, salt or gravy. Your pets should stick to their normal food.
If you want to treat your pet to festive bites, try our easy-to-make cat and dog treats below. Be sure to feed treats in moderation, as extra weight isn't good for their health.
Festive plants can be poisonous to pets
Some festive plants and flowers can be toxic to pets, including:
- Poinsettias
- Holly
- Ivy
- Mistletoe
- Lilies
Pet-proof your Christmas tree
Avoid using breakable baubles but if you do, hang them higher up.
Avoid chocolate decorations.
A tree stand may prevent cats from climbing up from the bottom.
Anchor the tree to a wall to prevent it from falling.
Provide alternative cat enrichment. Cats can be inquisitive and Christmas trees are novel and exciting so providing lots of other activities such as toys and feeding puzzles might keep them occupied elsewhere.
Tinsel, wrapping paper, hanging decorations and especially edible decorations might be tempting for your pet to play with, but make sure they don't eat them!
Keeping pets calm at Christmas
Christmas can be stressful for pets. Changes in routine, visitors, children, loud music and decorations can all worry them. Planning can help minimise stress for pets and ensure they have a happy home at Christmas.
Here are our top tips for helping your pets have a stress-free Christmas:
- Dogs and cats Stick to their routine - try to keep food, exercise, bed and toilet break routines the same, as consistency can help pets feel more secure.
- Introduce new people carefully - if you have visitors, 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.
- Hiding places - you can also give cats 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.
- Don't leave them alone too long - 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 too long.
- If you're spending Christmas day with friends or family and your dog is coming with you, take something that smells familiar, like their bed, to help them feel secure. You can also take some of their favourite toys and chews to entertain them.
Keep the 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.
Christmas pet care checklist
