Did you know there are many Christmas hazards that can affect your pet? We have devised a list of these Christmas hazards below to ensure your pet has a great Christmas too!
Remember to order your pets food or repeat prescription in time for the festive holidays.

• Fallen Christmas tree needles are very sharp and can easily get stuck in your pet’s paws or throat. Sweep tree needles up regularly or fence off your Christmas tree to separate your pet and tree.

• Do not hang chocolates from your Christmas tree. Chocolate is highly toxic and your pet will be tempted if he can see and smell them.

• Cover up electric cables and flashing tree lights so your pet can’t chew them and electrocute himself.

• Try using fairly lights that don’t flash as some pets can get very scared of these.

• Christmas tree decorations can cause a nasty accident or be fatal to your pet. Cats and young pets especially, will show a great interest in decorations hanging from your tree. Try to use unbreakable decorations and nothing too small. Avoid tinsel or ribbons as these can cause problems within the gastrointestinal tract if your pet swallows them.

• Make sure your tree is well anchored so your pet can’t pull it over. Poisonous Plants

• Holly, Mistletoe, Lilies, Yew tree, Poinsettia, Christmas Rose and Ivy are all poisonous to pets and must be kept well out of reach. 

• Bones. Eating cooked bones can cause many problems in cats and dogs than many pet owners would expect. Some pet owners believe that a cooked chicken leg or a lamb chop is a treat for their pet, but the bones can splinter when chewed and can get stuck in the animal’s throat or gastrointestinal tract. Signs to look out for include:

•  Vomiting
•  Choking
•  Lethargy
•  Abdominal discomfort
•  Pain
•  Salivating Chocolate
•  Alcohol

• Christmas is a time of year when there are always boxes & tins of chocolate hanging about. Chocolate contains an ingredient called Theobromine which is highly toxic to pets and if a large quantity is ingested could even be fatal. Keep chocolate out of reach to prevent accidental ingestion.

• Alcohol is also very toxic to pets so this should also be kept well out of reach. Other potential Christmas hazards

• Loud noises may panic your pet, such as Christmas crackers, poppers, balloons and champagne bottles. (Dogs have also been known to eat the corks!)

• Remove Christmas wrapping paper (and toys) from the floor to avoid your pet chewing or swallowing it. Food to avoid feeding your pet at Christmas (& always!)

• Alcoholic beverages • Chocolate • Coffee • Mouldy or spoiled foods • Salt • Chicken or turkey bones • Puddings

Avoid giving your pet any leftovers as this can cause diarrhoea.

Wise words indeed from the Pool House Veterinary team if you take their advice your beloved pet should have a Happy Christmas too!

If you need any advice on your pet give the team a call on 01543 406126

With thanks to Billy & Dotty from Cure for allowing us to use their photo.