As the festive season approaches, many of us are busy decorating our homes, planning lavish feasts, and preparing for gatherings with our family and friends. Whilst we enjoy the festivities, it’s important to remember our furry companions. Here’s some guidance on preparing your home for your pets and keeping hazards at bay.
Foods to Avoid
The festive season is filled with delicious treats, but many foods can be harmful to cats and dogs. Be vigilant and keep the following items out of reach:
Chocolate: Chocolate can be poisonous to both dogs and cats. Even a small amount can lead to toxicity.
Grapes and Raisins: Found in many traditional festive dishes like Christmas pudding and mince pies, these can cause kidney failure in dogs and possibly even cats.
Onions and Garlic: Ingredients like stuffing often contain onions and garlic, which can damage your pet’s red blood cells and lead to anaemia.
Alcohol: A festive tipple may be tempting for curious pets, but alcohol is highly toxic. Ensure drinks are left out of their reach.
Nuts: Particularly macadamia nuts, can cause weakness, vomiting, and even neurological issues.
Cooked Bones: While it might seem natural to offer bones to pets, cooked bones can splinter and cause internal injuries.
Keeping Your Pets Calm
With the influx of guests, changes in routine, and new decorations, pets can become anxious. Here are some top tips to keep them settled:
Safe Space: Create a quiet, comfortable area where your pet can retreat from the hustle and bustle. Include familiar items such as their bed, blanket and favourite toys.
Routine Maintenance: Try to keep feeding and walking schedules as consistent as possible. Keeping your routine can help reduce anxiety in pets.
Introduce Guests Slowly: Allow your pet to meet new people gradually. Provide treats for calm introductions, ensuring your pet sees guests as positive additions.
Music and Aromatherapy: Consider playing calming music or using pet-friendly aromatherapy diffusers to soothe skittish pets.
Decorations and Safety
The holidays aren’t complete without decorations, but they pose several hazards:
Electrical Cords: Keep them secured and out of reach to prevent chewing, which can lead to shocks or fires.
Tinsel and Baubles: Though pretty, tinsel and breakable ornaments can be dangerous if ingested or chewed into sharp pieces.
Pine Needles and Christmas Trees: Ensure your tree is stable. Ingesting pine needles can irritate a pet’s mouth and stomach. Sweep up fallen needles promptly.
Incorporate these precautions into your festive preparations to ensure a safe and joyous holiday for both you and your furry friends. With the right planning, you can maintain peace of mind and truly enjoy the season with your beloved pets by your side!
