12/24/2025
Watch out for these holiday pet hazards! 🐶🚨🐱
Chocolate and candy -- especially those containing dark cocoa or xylitol -- can be extremely toxic to pets if ingested.
Table scraps such as meat skin and fat, bones, onions and garlic, grapes and raisins, citruses, or unbaked yeast dough can all cause medical emergencies ranging from toxicity, pancreatitis, choking, or even intestinal blockages. Please be cautious of keeping food (and trash cans containing food) out of your pet’s reach!
Festive plants and flowers like mistletoe or holly, lilies, and poinsettias all pose a poisonous threat to your pet. Be sure Christmas trees are secured to avoid being tipped over by curious pets, and that any tree water is covered or inaccessible as this could be hazardous to ingest.
Holiday décor can be hazardous to a curious pet. Keep wires and batteries out of reach to prevent burns and electrical shock, as well as any tinsel or ribbon that could be swallowed and cause choking or bowel obstructions -- especially for cats! The liquid inside snow globes is similar to antifreeze, and while it may smell sweet to pets, it can be highly toxic if the globes break and the liquid is ingested.
Be cautious with the use of essential oils and potpourris, as some can irritate or even cause damage to your pet’s skin, eyes, and mouth. Keep lit candles out of the way of wagging tails and curious paws to prevent accidental fire!
For holiday pet emergencies, please contact your closest emergency clinic. We are wishing you all a wonderful (and safe) holiday with your furry friends! 🎄🐾
