Mims Davies MP shares tips and tricks to keep out beloved pets safe this Christmas.
Christmas can be such a spectacular time to come together with loved ones, friends, or to spend some time on your own getting in some well deserved relaxation.
It is also a time, for many of us, to spend with our fabulous furry friends.
With family and friends in and out of our homes, strange decorations and excitable children, Christmas and New Year are understandably highly stressful and confusing times for our pets.
Therefore, helping to identify hazards and help us all understand how to handle them, Pets at Home have asked their friends at Vets4Pets to share their expertise:
Always check your car before setting off on cold days
Some cats like to hide under the bonnets of cars where it’s warmer, so be sure to check your car before setting off.
Keep paws clean
Grit, snow and ice can all cause sore paws but antifreeze is toxic to pets. Particularly with cats, it can be ingested while they’re grooming so it is important to keep on top of their paw care.
Make sure your pet has a quiet place to escape to
With the hustle and bustle of extra guests, some pets will become distressed so it’s important they have somewhere to feel safe and relaxed. If you planning on having a party read our tips on how to keep your pet safe
Keep all alcoholic beverages out of reach
All alcohol is toxic to pets, even small amounts can cause liver and brain damage.
Loud noises can scare pets
Be careful and considerate when pulling crackers, party poppers or letting off fireworks as loud noises can scare pets
Keep Christmas plants out of reach
Christmas cherry, mistletoe and poinsettia are mildly toxic if eaten by pets and can result in vomiting, excess drooling or diarrhoea. Find out more about which Christmas plants are dangerous here.
Keep your pet away from the Christmas tree
Although most species of Christmas tree have low toxicity, it is important not to let your pet eat any part of it. If ingested, it can cause mild vomiting and diarrhoea.
Don't leave lit candles unattended
Pets may burn themselves or cause a fire if candles are left for them to knock over. With open fires, always use a fire guard.
Be careful with baubles, tinsel and toys
If you have an inquisitive pet or house rabbit, extra precautions such as small fences around your tree will stop them from chewing decorations and light wires.
Anchor your Christmas tree
Cat owners in particular will be familiar with pets climbing and potentially pulling over your Christmas tree. To ensure the safety of both yourself and your pets, make sure your tree is well anchored. For more tips read our guide on how to cat proof your Christmas tree.
Hoover up any fallen pine needles
Stray needles from your tree can get stuck in the soft paws of your pet and cause painful irritation. If ingested, they can be just as dangerous and can cause irritation to the intestines.
Avoid putting edible gifts under the Christmas tree
Even if they appear to be well wrapped, pets may well sniff out any food based gifts under the tree and may try to work their way through to potentially harmful foods not suitable for them.
Do not feed your pet any festive food
Chocolate, raisins, nuts, fruit cakes and mince pies are all toxic to pets. While not all festive food is poisonous, they could be too rich and cause serious stomach upset.
For a more detailed list of foods your pet should avoid read our guides for dogs, cats and small animals.
Mims Davies MP said:
"Christmas can be a magical time to spend with our beloved pets.
As a dog owner, I absolutely adore spending the time with my family and my Cockapoo, TJ - who this year I was thrilled was crowned winner of the prestigious Westminster Dog of the Year competition!
To ensure we all have a very merry Christmas, we need to be mindful about the impact the celebrations can have on our furry friends.
To help us, Pets at Home have shared some brilliant top tips to keep our pets health and happy with holiday season!"