Holiday Hazards to avoid

I mentioned a few weeks ago some of the dangers that Thanksgiving poses for your pet. In that same vein I thought I'd outline some holiday hazards for the month of December.  As an aside, I am not using "holidays" as a politically correct term here- don't sick Fox News on me! I am being inclusive as there are many faiths with celebrations in the month of December- all of which have hazards for our pets.

Prevention is the key  to protecting your pets, and avoiding  an emergency trip to the veterinary clinic.

Some plants found this time of year are toxic. Lilies are found in flower arrangements are are deadly to cats. Make sure your floral decorations don't contain Tiger, Asian, Japanese Show, East, Stargazer, or Casa Blanca lilies, as even a small amount ingested by your cat can lead to kidney failure.  The Ilex genus of holly has 29 species; the best known is  traditional English holly (Ilex aquifolium).

Generally self limiting symptoms are all that is seen with ingestion (vomiting/ decreased appetite, and diarrhea). Best to keep this plant out of reach.   




American mistletoe can cause stomach upset as well, however  European mistletoe is much more toxic.  Fortunately, American mistletoe is the commonly used mistletoe

in holiday decorations.  European mistletoe can cause a drop in blood pressure and decrease the hearts contractions, which would be seen clinically as decreased energy, or even collapse and death.  Be on the safe side and don't let your pets near it.  A plant that is not as toxic as most people think is Poinsettia. However, it can cause mild oral irritation and perhaps some vomiting.

There are a number of hazards around your Christmas tree. Starting at the bottom and working up, the water your tree sits in can harbor bacteria and fertilizers. Ingestion of the water, usually by a thirsty or inquisitive dog, can lead to vomiting or diarrhea. Try to cover the water stand.  Electric cords lighting up your tree can electrocute your pet if they chew through the cord. Cover your cords, and unplug your lights if your pet is left unsupervised in the house.  

Kelso demonstrating his interest in ribbon!

Ribbons and tinsel are attractive not just to us, but to our cats and dogs as well. If eaten, these can cause serious intestinal obstruction, which may require surgery to alleviate.  Don't wrap bows around your pets neck, as this poses strangulation risk. 


The last Christmas tree hazard are the glass and breakable ornaments, as sharp pieces can lacerate the delicate mucous membranes of the mouth and intestines if they are eaten by a dog or cat. Place delicate ornaments and ribbons/ tinsel high up on the tree, out of reach of your pet.  Lastly, you pet should not be left unsupervised with access to the tree or decorations. 

Wishing you and your four legged family a happy and safe holiday season!