Festive Seasons

Seasonal celebrations, such as Christmas, can be a time of cheer for humans. But, for pets, festive events can be noisy and unpredictable.

Our festive events can introduce a range of hazardous items, food, and decoration, which is why it’s important to continue being mindful of the safety and wellbeing of our pets.  

Before introducing visitors, new decorations, and harmful foods into your home, ensure you’re taking any necessary steps to reduce the risk of your pet being exposed to harmful foods and stressful situations.

Keep decorations out of reach

Decorations and presents all pose a risk if they are consumed, including: 

  • candy canes or chocolate 
  • round, ball-like decorations, which may break in your pet’s mouth, causing lacerations to his intestines and tongue 
  • sparkly items e.g., flickering tree lights, small and shiny ornaments, ribbon and wrapping paper 
  • tinsel, which can obstruct the intestines and create a surgical emergency 

Christmas Day tips

Keep your pet healthy and happy on Christmas Day with our suggestions: 

  • Create a calm, quiet spot for your pet away from the noise. 
  • Exercise your pet before any guests arrive. 
  • Keep Christmas flowers and plants out of your pet’s reach. 
  • Quickly clean up any bows, plastic and ribbons so there’s no chance of him swallowing them by mistake. 

Spoiling your pet

Here are some tips for spoiling your pet in a healthy, safe way: 

  • Create a treasure hunt through the house or garden of your pet’s regular dry food. 
  • Mix your pet’s regular food with a treat. 
  • Use a recipe that is specifically designed to be a safe treat for your pet. 
  • Spend extra quality time with your pet by playing games or going for extra walks. 
  • Purchase pet-friendly Christmas food and treats. 

Human foods are not a treat for pets

Christmas is a time of giving, but many human foods can cause serious illness. So resist that pleading face, and exercise caution when choosing what treats to give your pet. 

Ham, turkey and other meats 

Most cooked meats are okay to feed to cats and dogs in small quantities. However, do not feed your pets cooked bones as these they can easily splinter and damage their intestines and throat. Keep meat scraps free of gravy and marinades. 

Sweet treats 
Many sweet treats are toxic for pets, and can even be fatal. This includes: 

  • chocolate 
  • Christmas pudding 
  • currants 
  • grapes 
  • lollies 
  • raisins 
  • sugar-free sweet products 

From routine health checks to specialised surgeries, our veterinary hospitals can help you provide your pet with emergency treatment and critical support.