For many of us, eating good food and celebrating the holidays are synonymous. Unfortunately, cats are naturally intrigued by the new noises, sights, and scents of the season. These things aren’t pet-friendly and can send your cat to the emergency room. At Annapolis Veterinary & Wellness in Annapolis, Dr. Hamilton is here to help you plan accordingly for your kitty. Implement these tips to keep your cat safe this holiday season.
Food Precautions
Allowing your kitty to eat rich holiday dishes that are meant for humans isn’t a good idea. Moreover, unexpected dietary changes can upset your kitty’s stomach. Here are some foods you shouldn’t give your cat during the holidays:
- Alcohol
- Chocolate
- Nuts
- Scraps
- Sweets
Cat-proof Your Holiday Decorations
Just like delicious meals, holiday decor can attract your kitty’s curiosity. Unfortunately, if you don’t care to pet-proof these elegant ornaments, your cat might be at the veterinarian’s office during the holiday celebrations.
- Candles and fireplaces: Never leave your kitty near a fireplace or a candle. Cats like lights and fast-moving objects and this can lead to accidents. So always cover your fireplaces with a screen and keep any candles out of reach.
- Ornaments: Many Christmas decorations are fragile, while others look like chew toys to cats. These objects pose a serious risk of harm to your cat. Keep them out of reach and securely attached.
- Plants: Many festive flowers and plants are poisonous to your cat. Vomiting, nausea, and other gastrointestinal complications have been linked to holly, amaryllis, and mistletoe. Poinsettias are less poisonous but can create problems depending on how much your cat ingests. Instead, use artificial plants or pet-safe plants and flowers.
- Trees: Christmas trees wow your cat. Keep your trees affixed to the wall or ceiling to avoid toppling or tilting over, which can harm your cat.
- String Lights and Cords: Our feline friends are curious about anything we put in their territory and vicinity. Therefore, don’t put string lights on the bottom of your tree where they can get tangled in the cables—some cats like chewing on cords and wires. Hide the lights and cables behind your furniture or tape them to the floor.
Keep Your Kitty Safe This Holiday Season
The safest option is to keep a routine around your cat. For example, don’t change its diet, don’t let it play near decorations like toys, and give your pet lots of attention and love. We hope these safety tips will help you have a wonderful and safe festive season. Contact us immediately if your cat has ingested anything it shouldn’t have or if it is showing any behavioral changes and discomfort. Call our team today at (410) 224-6624 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form for non-emergencies. Happy holidays from us at Annapolis Veterinary & Wellness in Annapolis, MD.