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10 Holiday Hazards for Pets
1. Ornaments and Decorations
Dogs and cats alike are prone to eating ornaments and decorations. Cats tend to find ribbon, bows and tinsel especially irresistible. Every year at this time we have patients that need surgery to remove holiday items that have become lodged in their stomach or intestines.
2. Holiday plants
Ingestion of poinsetta, holly and Christmas trees or tree water can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Mistletoe can also  make pets sick. Lilies are extremely toxic. All of these items should be kept away from pets.
3. Rich foods and treats
Pets who are fed fatty or spicy foods can get pancreatitis, which can make them very sick and can even be fatal.
4. Bones
Small bones from poultry or meat may damage or block your pet's digestive tract.
5. Candles Disaster could be just a tail swipe away. Be sure to keep candles up high in a location where they cannot be accidentally knocked over by your pets.
6. Chocolate
7. Grapes, Raisins and Macadamia Nuts
Cats won't be interested in nibbling these, but they are toxic to dogs! Keep Fido away from them.
8. Garbage
Dogs love to break into the trash after the people have feasted. Make sure you carefully secure garbage bags and place them out of reach.
9. Electrical cords and lights
Dogs and cats may be tempted to play with and chew electrical cords for holiday lights. If they chew too hard, they may get a bad shock that results in an electrical burn or even respiratory distress.
10. Guests
Pets can dart out the door during the all the comings and goings of holiday guests. If you are planning to entertain this season, make sure your guests are aware of the pets, and consider keeping your pets in a room away from the company or in a crate. Your pet will feel safer and won't be exposed to all the dangerous holiday temptations.
Be on the lookout for these 10 potential health hazards and have a safe and happy holiday season with your pets!
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