The festive season brings plenty of excitement – sparkling decorations, seasonal treats and a cosy atmosphere we all enjoy. But for our pets, these changes can introduce unfamiliar sights, smells and potential hazards. That’s why it’s so important to pet-proof your home for Christmas, ensuring your celebrations remain safe and stress-free.
Whether you share your home with a cat, dog, rabbit, reptile, bird or small furry friend, a little preparation can make a big difference. Check out some of the top tips from our team below.
Decorating with all pets in mind
Festive decorations can be fascinating to pets of all kinds. To minimise risks:
- Secure your Christmas tree firmly to prevent it from being knocked over.
- Place delicate ornaments higher up or away from areas pets can reach.
- Avoid edible decorations, such as chocolate or popcorn strings.
- Avoid decorating with small items that can be swallowed easily, such as lametta tinsel.
- Tidy up tree needles if you have a real tree, as they can be sharp for paws, feet or mouths.
For small pets like rabbits or guinea pigs, ensure decorations and wires are kept well out of nibbling range. Birds should also be supervised around trees and tinsel, as shiny objects can be particularly enticing.
Take care with seasonal plants
Many festive plants, including holly, ivy, poinsettias, lillies and mistletoe, can be harmful to a wide range of pets if ingested. If you’re unsure whether a plant is safe, it’s best to keep it out of reach or opt for artificial alternatives.
If you suspect your pet has eaten something potentially toxic, please contact us promptly.
Toxic foods to avoid
Many traditional Christmas foods are unsuitable and dangerous for pets, including:
- Chocolate
- Grapes and raisins
- Onions, garlic and leeks
- Alcohol
- Rich or fatty foods
This applies to all pets, including rabbits, birds and reptiles, who each have specific dietary needs. Keep festive treats well out of reach and ensure visitors understand not to feed pets without guidance.
If you’d like to treat your pet to some festive bits, the RSPCA has some great recipes for homemade treats, for both cats and dogs.
Be careful with batteries
Batteries are a common sight over the festive season, especially with new toys, decorations and gadgets around the house – but they can be extremely dangerous if a pet gets hold of one. Whether it’s a loose battery or one inside a toy, chewing or swallowing can cause severe internal burns and life-threatening injuries in a very short space of time.
To help keep pets safe, make sure spare batteries are stored securely, check that battery compartments on toys and decorations are firmly closed and dispose of used batteries promptly and safely. If you suspect your pet has chewed or swallowed a battery, contact us immediately for advice.
Maintaining a calm and comfortable environment
The noise and activity of Christmas can be stressful for pets, especially those sensitive to change, such as small mammals or birds. To help, you can:
- Provide a quiet retreat where they can rest undisturbed.
- Keep their feeding, handling and lighting routines as consistent as possible.
- Consider moving nervous pets (like reptiles or small furries) to a quieter room when hosting gatherings.
- Allow pets to interact with visitors at their own pace.
Light, heat and electrical safety
Fairy lights, candles and heaters all help create a warm and festive atmosphere, but they can pose risks to pets if not used carefully. Avoid leaving candles or open flames unattended, and keep electrical cables secured and out of reach to prevent chewing.
If you’re using heaters or have a fireplace, ensure they’re safely guarded and monitored, particularly around curious pets. For birds, it’s best to take extra care with scented candles and diffusers, as certain fragrances and aerosols can be harmful to their sensitive respiratory systems.
Wrapping paper, ribbons and presents
Items such as ribbons, bows and string can cause problems if chewed or swallowed. Keep wrapping supplies stored safely away from curious pets, and check gifts under the tree for anything loose that might be investigated.
For pets that roam freely, consider using more robust wrapping materials that are less likely to tear or reveal tempting textures.
Travel and boarding preparations
If you’re planning to travel or arrange boarding over Christmas, it’s worth taking a little time to make sure your pet is fully prepared. Things to consider include:
- Check vaccinations, parasite treatments or – if you have reptiles – specific heat or lighting requirements are up to date.
- Pack anything they rely on day-to-day, such as food, supplements or familiar bedding, to help them settle more easily in a new environment.
- Allow extra time for journeys if your pet is sensitive to travel or changes in temperature, helping to ensure everything stays calm and stress-free.
Wishing you and your pets a safe, peaceful Christmas
With a few simple precautions, you can enjoy a festive home that’s safe for every member of the family – pets included. If you need advice or have concerns about your pet’s health or wellbeing, the St Kitts team is here to help. Get in touch with your local practice:
St Kitts Vets Hartley Wintney: 01252 844044
St Kitts Vets Basingstoke: 01256 844944
Crookham Park Veterinary Centre: 01252 913990
Firgrove Veterinary Centre: 01252 877799
