Tis the season to celebrate with loved ones, but our furry companions can’t always tell the difference between holiday items and hazards. The crunchy crinkle of tinsel feels and sounds similar to a cat toy, a mistake that landed one feline friend in emergency surgery. When the cat’s owner noticed she was behaving oddly — lethargic, refusing food, and convulsing — he quickly brought her to the vet. What was initially believed to be allergies was later discovered to be an intestinal blockage, suspected to be caused by tinsel from a Christmas tree.
This cat’s unfortunate accident is a good reminder for pet owners to check their homes for hazards this holiday season.
Here are some common hazards to keep an eye out for:
Tinsel, ribbons, and string are commonly featured in holiday decorations and share similarities with some pet toys. If ingested, they can become lodged and may cause blockages that require emergency surgery.
String lights and power cords can be tempting for some critters to chew on; make sure cords are kept out of reach and unplugged when not in use.
Plants and floral arrangements, while beautiful, can be poisonous or even lethal to pets. Mistletoe, holly, lilies, and amaryllis are often seen around the holidays, but can cause extreme medical distress if chewed or eaten (especially by cats). Avoid having these in your home or keep them well out of reach to avoid any accidental ingestion.
Food is the focal point of many festivities, but certain items are hazardous for animals. Chocolate, poultry bones, yeast dough, onions, raisins, and alcohol are just some examples of food that is toxic for dogs or cats. Don’t leave food out where pets can access it, and take out the trash to prevent them from getting into it.
Christmas trees seem irresistible to many pets, especially curious cats. It’s important that your Christmas tree is kept secure, so it doesn’t fall onto anyone if a pet decides to explore in it. If you have a live tree, ensure you are not adding any chemical treatment to the water, as some pets may try to drink from the base.
Guests bring the holiday cheer for us humans, but can be overwhelming for our pets. Ensure your furry friend has a safe spot to retreat if they need space, and keep them secure around entry ways to avoid any accidental door dashing. Stay informed on animal body language and remind your guests — including children — respect your pet’s boundaries.