How to keep your pets safe during the festive season

6th Dec 2022 Animals & Pets

Pets are an important part of the family, so most of us want to involve them in our Christmas celebrations. Here's some advice for doing this safely

Our pets are part of the family, and of course we want to get them involved in our Christmas celebrations.

Sadly, every year the teams at Blue Cross pet charity’s animal hospitals treat pets who have eaten or drunk something they shouldn’t have.

"Our pets are part of the family, and of course we want to get them involved in our Christmas celebrations"

Poor Sunshine was rushed in for care after eating a glittery Christmas bauble, while Monty the cat was brought in after he broke into one of his owner’s Christmas hampers and devoured half a boozy fruit cake. Meanwhile German shepherd Bella had to be put on a drip to treat her after she knocked over a bottle of Advocaat and lapped up the sweet treat.

The charity has some top tips to ensure you enjoy this festive season with your companion, and avoid any emergency trips to the vets.

Christmas dinner

Some Christmas dinner classics can make a nice treat for your pet

For many of us Christmas dinner is the highlight of the season, but it’s important to remember that certain foods can lead to illness, seizures and can even prove fatal for your pet.

If you’re wanting to put together a pet-friendly bowl of food as a one-off treat this Christmas for your cat or dog, then you can include a small portion of any of the below:

Turkey meat (no skin or bones)
Salmon
Lamb meat (no bones)
Scrambled
Green beans
Brussel sprouts
Parsnips
Carrot
Peas
Swede
Mash
New or sweet potatoes

Festive foods to keep out of your pet's reach

Avoid certain foods to keep your pet healthy and happy this festive season

Onions, garlic, leeks, shallots and chives are toxic and can cause vomiting and diarrhoea and serious illness for your pet.
Chocolate contains theobromine, a chemical that is toxic and can cause agitations, tremors and problems with the heart.
Mince pies and Christmas puddings contain grapes and dried fruits such as currants, sultanas and raisins that are highly toxic. Even small amounts can cause severe kidney failure. The artificial sweetener xylitol is found in lots of things including sweets, baked goods and peanut butter.

And finally…

Be careful mixing pets and Christmas decorations!

To make sure your pet is having as much fun as you this Christmas, be wary of the following dangers:

Plants like poinsettas, holly, mistletoe, real Christmas trees and ivy can cause upset stomachs.
Real or artificial Christmas trees can be a hub for injuries if your cat likes to climb. Make sure your Christmas tree is placed in a heavy base and consider tethering to the wall. Hang decorations high up the tree out of reach for your pet. Be wary of glass ornaments, which can smash if they fall and break, and tinsel, which can be dangerous if swallowed by your pet.
Avoid using fertilisers or plant food if your tree is potted. Many are toxic to cats, and of course some cats may happily use the pot as a litter tray!
Sharp pine needles can also be dangerous for your pet so consider an artificial or non-drop variety of tree.
If your pet is prone to chewing, then Christmas lights can pose a real danger. Cover any wires with plastic or cardboard tubing and switch off the lights when you’re not around.

Caroline Reay, Head of Veterinary Services at Blue Cross, said: “Pets are part of the family and naturally we want to involve them in our celebrations at Christmas. Following these steps will ensure you can enjoy a safe and happy Christmas with your four-legged friend.”  

This Christmas, pets and their people have never needed Blue Cross more. Help the charity provide rehoming, vet care and pet food banks to help pets and people through these tough times. Visit bluecross.org.uk/support to find out more

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