By TerrieLynn Bach
Holidays can be a stressful time for your pets. Cats in particular do not like their routine disrupted. With everyone rushing around and so much excitement, it’s easy to forget that our pets can be stressed out.
Some things to remember for your kitties’ safety and YOUR peace of mind:
- If you have house guests, give your pets a quiet room, preferably with a door that closes, to themselves with places to hide and toys, litterbox, food and water that are familiar. This is especially true when New Year’s fireworks are going off.
- Make sure to keep cats and dogs away from unattended food plates and keep trash can lids secure. Sugar, chocolate, and xylitol– a natural sugar alcohol found in plants, including many fruits and vegetables– are toxic to our pets.
- Be careful with seasonal plants and decorations. Securely anchor your Christmas tree so it doesn’t tip and fall, which could potentially injure your pet.
- This also prevents the tree water, which may contain fertilizers that can cause an upset stomach, from spilling. Stagnant tree water is a breeding ground for bacteria, and your pet could end up with nausea or diarrhea should they drink it.
- Avoid holly. Holly, when ingested, can cause pets to suffer nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
- And mistletoe! Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems. And many varieties of lilies can cause kidney failure in cats if ingested. Opt for just-as-jolly artificial plants made from silk or plastic– or choose a pet-safe bouquet.
- Tinsel-less town: Kitties love this sparkly, light-catching “toy” that’s easy to bat around and carry in their mouths. But a nibble can lead to a swallow, which can lead to an obstructed digestive tract, severe vomiting, dehydration, and possible surgery. It’s best to brighten your boughs with something other than tinsel.
- That holiday glow: Don’t leave lighted candles unattended. Pets may burn themselves or cause a fire if they knock candles over. Be sure to use appropriate candle holders, placed on a stable surface. And if you leave the room, put the candle out!
- Wired up: Keep wires, batteries, and glass or plastic ornaments out of paws’ reach. A wire can deliver a potentially lethal electrical shock and a punctured battery can cause burns to the mouth and esophagus. And shards of breakable ornaments can damage your pet’s mouth and digestive tract.
All of us here with Bastrop CATS wish you and your cats a safe and happy holidays!
Sources:
ASPCA. “Have a Healthy, Happy Holiday with Your Pets.” Infographic.