Animals are such agreeable friends. They ask no questions; they pass no criticisms. — George Eliot
Sometimes, in the bustle of the holiday season preparations, we forget about the furry, heart-warming companions close to our hearts: our pets. This year, let us be mindful about how festive celebrations by humans affects pets, and let us learn about having a pet-friendly holiday season.
Potential dangers
Christmas can be full of hazards for dog and cat owners, especially if potential dangers are not considered during preparations. Concerns range from mild to deadly if our pets ingest the wrong plants or food and get a hold of potentially dangerous holiday decorations. Plants, such as poinsettias, cause upset, whereas lilies are a major concern. Both plants are toxic to animals, especially cats, which seem to be the pet most likely to munch on plants. Depending on the lily variety, they can be very toxic to the kidneys.
With Christmas comes specialty baking. Special attention should be made to the use of ingredients, especially baking chocolate, which is also toxic to pets. Chocolate contains theobromine, an alkaloid of the cacao plant that can cause seizure and heart failure in both dogs and cats. Darker chocolate contains more cocoa and is thus more toxic. Many veterinarians have visits from pet owners to treat toxicity during the holiday season.
Watch out for those treats
Owners may be tempted to give their pets treats, but too many fatty foods can lead to vomiting and diarrhea. Turkey bones can cause serious problems and should never be given to your pet. Turkey bones become brittle once cooked and can lead to intestinal punctures when chewed into splinters. Also, fatty skin, gravy, or anything else from the turkey can cause inflammation of the pancreas, leading to pancreatitis, a serious and sometimes fatal disease.
Ornaments may be a risk
Owners should pay particular attention to tinsel and ribbons, especially around younger pets who view these decorations as playthings that can be nibbled on; these are sometimes swallowed. This could possibly lead to “string gut.” These foreign bodies pass into the small intestine and slowly cause obstruction. However, they can be surgically repaired but have severe complications and can be fatal as well.
Tree lights on the lower part of the tree can be tempting to curious pets that sometimes bite and ingest them, leading to a stomach full of glass. There have been cases where cats or puppies have pulled out small mini-lights from their sockets and ingested them.
Secure the Christmas tree well
Ensure that the tree is secured. Cats in particular tend to climb the tree, causing it to fall over. Be aware of various cords lying around that may cause electrocution if chewed. The main indicator that something is wrong with your pet is any attitude changes. If once spunky and running around, but now lay in a corner trembling, that’s a real concern. It may be the time to pay your veterinarian a visit to resolve the problem.
As Michael Morpurgo, one of Britain’s well-loved children’s authors put it, “Animals are sentient, intelligent, perceptive, funny and entertaining. We owe them a duty of care as we do to children.”
Don’t let your beloved pets get lost in the hustle and bustle of Christmas. Remember, they are part of the family as well and should be treated so, especially during the holiday season.