Christmas is a busy and exciting time, filled with delicious food, decorations, and celebrations. But amidst the fun, it’s easy to overlook the potential hazards that the festive season brings for our pets. Each year, veterinary practices see an increase in emergencies caused by cats and dogs eating something they shouldn’t — from chocolates and raisins to festive plants and ornaments.
Some of our favourite festive treats and traditions can pose hidden risks to cats and dogs. Here’s how to keep them safe this Christmas.
Festive Foods
It’s hard to resist sharing the joy — and the snacks — but some Christmas treats can cause serious harm.
Chocolate is one of the biggest culprits. It contains theobromine, which dogs can’t process properly. Even a small amount can cause vomiting, restlessness, or worse — especially dark or cooking chocolate. Keep boxes, advent calendars, and stockings well out of reach.
Raisins, sultanas, and grapes can be found in everything from mince pies to Christmas puddings. These are highly toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure, even in small quantities. It’s safest to keep fruity bakes firmly off your pet’s menu. And don’t forget alcohol. A sneaky sip from a glass or a lick of a boozy dessert can cause disorientation, sickness, and dangerously low blood sugar. Mop up spills quickly and keep drinks off low tables.
Plants
Christmas wouldn’t be complete without a bit of greenery, but some festive plants can be risky. Poinsettas are highly toxic to cats (They are part of the Lily family) — even a brush against their pollen can cause kidney failure — so best avoid them completely.
Mistletoe, and holly berries can also cause irritation or upset stomachs if chewed. They might look pretty, but it’s safest to keep them out of paw’s reach.
Festive Decor
Sparkly tinsel and ribbons can be irresistible to playful pets, but if swallowed, can lead to serious blockages. Keep ornaments higher up the tree and on shelves. Unplug fairy lights when you’re not around, just in case a curious pup decides to chew, which can lead to
electric shocks and burns.
When to Call the Vet
If your pet eats something unusual or starts showing signs like vomiting, drooling, shaking, or tiredness, it’s always safest to get professional advice. Don’t wait for symptoms to get worse — some toxins act quickly, and early treatment makes a huge difference.
If you’re worried, Ledbury Park Veterinary Centre offers an out-of-hours service 24/7 throughout the Christmas period. Whether it’s a late-night chocolate raid or a curious cat nibbling on the tree, our team is just a phone call away to offer advice or emergency care whenever you need it.
A few simple precautions go a long way. Keep festive foods and plants out of reach, remind guests not to share snacks, and make sure your bins are secure.
With a little care and attention, every family member — human and furry alike — can enjoy a happy, healthy Christmas.
