While we’ve already covered some tips and tricks for keeping your pets safe during the holidays and family gatherings, the holidays in December, can present an entirely new set of problems for pets. Here are some suggestions and tips for keeping your pets safe.

Holiday decorations

If you’re going to put up a Christmas tree in your home, it’s important to consider what sort of ornaments you’re going to hang on it. Cats are famous for climbing trees and toppling them. So consider how sturdy your tree base is. Be sure to keep breakable or toxic ornaments higher up on the tree, out of reach of your pets. Be sure to keep your pets away from the water at the base of your tree. There is always the chance for bacteria which can make your pet sick.

Beware of lit candles. While they can really make the home feel cozy, make sure your dog doesn’t have a dangerous swinging tail or that your cat is prone to knocking things off of tables or countertops. Watch holiday light wires, to be sure they aren’t in areas that your pet can get access to.

Holiday plants can also be dangerous. Mistletoe and holly can be toxic to pets, causing nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Poinsettia can also be extremely toxic to pets, so keep them off the ground or out of reach for your pets.

Cats also love how sparkly tinsel is. Consider if you have a curious kitten, that they don’t have access to the tinsel decorations. If they get too interested in it, they can digest it which could cause an obstructed digestive tract.

Holiday food

Be sure to keep holiday food away from your pets. While giving your pet table scraps at any time of the year isn’t good for them, the food at the holidays tends to be more fatty or sweeter, which can really cause your pet more problems than normal.

As always, avoid the chocolate. It’s toxic for your pets. Leftovers tend to feature spices and seasoning that is rough on your digestive tract. Watch where you leave your holiday cocktails during a holiday party. Alcohol isn’t good for pets.

House rules

Keep an eye on your pets, if you’re going to have a house full, with guests walking in and out the doors. Be sure to have your pet’s collar on if you’re going to have doors opening and closing. Be sure your pet has a safe and quiet place to stay, as holidays like New Years can tend to get quite noisy.

Make sure your pet feels safe during the holidays. Stick to their schedule, with daily walks and feeding times, it will help to keep their stress level down. If you’re planning to have guests in and out of the house, be sure to keep your pets in an area of the house that they can’t escape.