Christmas hazards for pets: How to protect your pets during the holidays

Christmas is a season full of joy and celebrations, but it can also represent a risk for our pets if we don’t take the necessary precautions. As Veterinari del Clínic, your trusted vet in Barcelona, we want to make sure you enjoy a safe holiday season for both you and your pets. Below, we explain some of the dangers of Christmas for pets during the festive period and how to avoid them.

Top Christmas dangers for pets: especially for dogs

Dogs are often very exposed to certain risks during the festive season. Here are some of the most common dangers for them:

• Toxic food: During celebrations, it is common for humans to enjoy chocolates, nougat, grapes, and other treats. However, many of these foods can be extremely dangerous for dogs. Chocolate, for example, contains theobromine, which can be lethal to dogs. In addition, grapes and prunes can cause kidney failure, and xylitol, a common sweetener in sweets, can cause hypoglycaemia in dogs. As Veterinari del Clínic, your trusted vet in Barcelona, we recommend that you keep these foods out of your pet’s reach.
• Decorations and ornaments: Christmas decorations, such as Christmas tree balls, ribbons, and tinsel, can be ingested out of curiosity or accidentally, which can cause serious intestinal obstructions. In addition, glass or fragile decorations can break, causing cuts or injuries to your dog. If you need help or information on how to protect your pet from these dangers, don’t hesitate to visit Veterinari del Clínic, your trusted vet in Barcelona.
• Christmas plants: Some typical Christmas plants, such as poinsettias, holly or mistletoe, can be poisonous to dogs if chewed. If you have these plants at home, be sure to place them in inaccessible places or opt for artificial alternatives.

Top Christmas dangers for pets: Cats are very curious

Cats can also face certain risks during Christmas due to their natural curiosity. Here are some of the most common dangers for them:

• Electric lights and wires: cats love to play with wires, and during the holidays we tend to have more exposed wires due to Christmas lights. This can result in serious accidents, such as burns or even electrocutions. To avoid this, place lights where they can’t reach them or use wire protectors.
• Christmas tree: Cats have a tendency to climb and play with the Christmas tree, which can cause the tree to fall, as well as break ornaments. Be sure to anchor the tree so it can’t fall off easily and avoid small ornaments that can be ingested.
• Glitter and tinsel: Cats are often attracted to shiny objects such as glitter and tinsel, which can be accidentally ingested. If they do, they could face serious digestive problems. It is advisable to keep these items out of their reach or choose safe alternatives.

Tips for the prevention of holiday dangers for pets

Avoiding the dangers of Christmas in pets is not so difficult if we take some precautions. Here are some practical tips:

1. Place the tree in a safe area: Make sure the tree is securely anchored and out of reach of your pets. Avoid small or fragile ornaments that can be ingested by your dog or cat.
2. Control food: Keep dangerous foods out of your pet’s reach, and make sure your guests know that certain foods, such as chocolate or grapes, are dangerous for animals.
3. Keep plants out of reach: If you like typical Christmas plants, opt for artificial plants or place them in places where your pets can’t get to them.
4. Take care of electrical cords: Use wire protectors or make sure your Christmas lights are out of reach of your cat or dog to avoid bites and possible electrocutions.
5. Supervise your pets: During family visits and celebrations, make sure your dog or cat is not stressed. Provide a quiet place where they can retreat if they need to.

Remember that at Veterinari del Clínic, your trusted veterinarian in Barcelona, we are available to help you prevent accidents during the holidays and make sure that your pet is safe and healthy. If you have any questions or need more information about how to take care of your pet during the holidays, do not hesitate to visit us.