Christmas is a magical time of year, full of lights, excitement, delicious food, and family gatherings. Naturally, our pets want to be right at the heart of the action. At Rooke’s Pet Products, we know how curious dogs and cats can be during the festive season – every decoration, ribbon, scent, and treat is a new mystery to investigate!
But with all this excitement comes a fair share of hidden hazards. From tempting foods and twinkling lights to unfamiliar visitors and noisy celebrations, Christmas can be a challenging time for our pets. This guide is here to help you navigate the season safely, so your dogs and cats enjoy a calm, cosy, and happy Christmas alongside the rest of the family.
Decorations: Beautiful, but Tempting
Let’s be honest… Christmas decorations weren’t designed with pets in mind. The tree becomes a climbing post for cats, the baubles look suspiciously like toys, and dogs will quite happily chew anything within reach.
Christmas trees, whether real or artificial, can pose risks. Cats may try to climb them, knocking them over, while dogs might decide to nibble on branches or fallen needles. It’s always a good idea to secure your tree firmly and keep a close eye in those first few days when pets are getting used to it. If you know your pet is particularly mischievous, a simple barrier or pet gate can be a real help.
Ornaments are another source of temptation. Glass baubles can shatter, and tinsel – especially irresistible to cats – can cause serious internal issues if swallowed. Keeping fragile decorations higher up the tree and opting for sturdy, pet-safe alternatives at the bottom can make a big difference.
And then there are the lights and cables. A playful kitten or curious puppy may see dangling wires as something to chew which is incredibly dangerous. Try to hide cables where possible, use cable protectors, and unplug lights when you’re not around to supervise.
Candles add warmth and atmosphere, but an excited wagging tail or a curious cat paw can turn them into a fire hazard instantly. Opt for battery-operated LED candles instead – they give the same cosy glow without the risk.
Festive Foods: What to Watch Out For
Christmas food is one of the highlights of the season – for us, at least. For pets, many of our festive treats can be genuinely dangerous. Chocolate is one of the biggest culprits, with even small amounts posing a risk. Seasonal favourites like mince pies, Christmas pudding, and fruitcake often contain raisins and grapes which are highly toxic to dogs.
Even savoury foods can cause trouble. Turkey skin, gravy, sausage meat, and anything particularly rich can trigger stomach upsets or even pancreatitis. Onions and garlic, often found in stuffings and sauces, are harmful to both dogs and cats. And watch out for xylitol – an artificial sweetener found in plums, strawberries, and cauliflower, and most commonly used as a sugar substitute in many processed products.
It can help to keep food well out of reach, brief guests not to feed pets from the table, and have some safe, pet-friendly treats ready instead. That way, your dog or cat still gets to feel included in the festivities without any risk to their health.
Paper, Ribbons, and All Things Wrappable
Gift-wrapping is one of the most exciting pre-Christmas activities for pets. Crinkly paper, dangling ribbons, bows that flutter with the slightest movement – to them, it’s a wonderland.
The trouble is, swallowing paper, string, or ribbon can cause choking or dangerous blockages. Try to wrap presents away from overly enthusiastic “helpers,” and tidy away leftover materials as soon as you’re done. Likewise, keep already-wrapped gifts out of reach if your pet is known to chew or shred anything left on the floor.
Managing Stress and Overstimulation
With visitors coming and going, children playing, music, laughter, and the general hustle of Christmas, many dogs and cats can feel overwhelmed. Even confident pets sometimes struggle with the sudden change in routine.
A simple way to help them cope is to create a quiet, cosy retreat – a spare room, a comfy crate, or a tucked-away corner where they can escape the commotion. Keeping to regular feeding, walking, and play routines also helps them feel secure amid the chaos. For cats, having familiar blankets, toys, and hideaways can make all the difference.
If your pet becomes anxious around visitors, let them approach people on their own terms rather than forcing interaction. Some pets prefer to watch from a distance, and that’s perfectly fine.
Fireworks and Festive Noise
The festive period often brings fireworks, especially around New Year’s Eve. Dogs, in particular, can be frightened by the sudden loud bangs. Keeping them indoors, closing curtains, putting on soothing background noise, and providing a safe space to hide can help them feel more secure.
Make sure both dogs and cats are wearing ID tags and have up-to-date microchip details – frightened animals may dart through open doors during parties or celebrations.
Watch Out for Seasonal Plants
Some traditional Christmas plants look lovely, but aren’t so lovely for pets. Holly and ivy can cause stomach upsets, mistletoe is particularly dangerous, and even poinsettias – though less toxic – can irritate a pet’s mouth and stomach if chewed. If you’re using fresh plants, display them well out of reach, or consider choosing artificial alternatives for peace of mind.
Safe Ways to Include Your Pets in the Festivities
Just because there are more hazards around doesn’t mean pets need to miss out on the fun. There are plenty of ways to involve them safely:
A little cooked, unseasoned turkey or chicken can be a special Christmas treat. Dogs often enjoy festive-themed dog biscuits or chew treats, while cats might like a sprinkle of catnip or a new interactive toy. Enrichment games like puzzle feeders, snuffle mats, or treat-dispensing toys are also brilliant for keeping pets entertained while everyone else tucks into their Christmas dinner.
Planning Ahead
Even with the best preparation, accidents can happen, so it’s sensible to be ready. Keep your vet’s number handy and know where your nearest out-of-hours emergency practice is, just in case. Familiarising yourself with early signs of poisoning or intestinal blockages can help you react quickly if something seems wrong.
A small pet first aid kit, kept somewhere easy to reach, is also a good idea especially during a busy season when hazards are more common.
A Safe, Cosy Christmas for All
Christmas should be a time of warmth and joy for the whole family, including your pets. A little extra awareness and a few small adjustments can help make your home a safe and comforting place for your dogs and cats throughout the festivities.
At Rooke’s, we’re passionate about helping families enjoy the holidays with peace of mind. With thoughtful precautions, a bit of planning, and plenty of love, you can ensure your pets enjoy a Christmas that’s just as merry as your own – full of comfort, familiarity, and a few safe treats along the way.