Decorating your home during the holidays universally provides a feeling of warmth and coziness! Whether it’s the garland that wraps down the staircase, the iridescent lights strung across your roof, the Christmas tree with nostalgic ornaments, or the bright menorah that glistens in the window.
These traditions present us with a sensation of comfort and immediate serotonin. We get to spend quality time with our family while we decorate our homes. Family includes your pets, and when decorating, you may need to reconsider certain classics that can actually turn into something tragic for your furry friends. In order to prevent this, here are the decorations you should be looking out for:
1. Fairy Lights
Fairy lights create a warm and cozy atmosphere, especially during the holiday season. But beware! These lights are very attractive to curious pets, and can cause electrical shocks with severe burns if chewed. This especially applies to younger pets such as puppies and kittens who have not yet learnt much about anything, though these lights could be a danger to all animals. When left out in open areas, these lights pose a threat to our furry family members. If you can’t substitute for something else, try to place these in hard to reach areas to prevent a trip to the vet.
2. Tinsel
Tinsel is extremely toxic to animals, especially when ingested. Many cats find interest in playing with tinsel, but owners must be aware that it is no toy. Tinsel is a severe choking risk, and when consumed tinsel poses a threat to what is called a linear foreign body, it can cause serious damage to the intestines. When an animal eats tinsel they should be brought to the vet immediately, as in most cases a health decline will occur leading to death or serious long-term health issues. Because of the intestinal blockage, surgery is most likely needed for your pet. Garland is a safer alternative, or something that cannot easily be eaten and swallowed.
3. Poinsettia
Poinsettias are known as a striking symbol of Christmas, and are widely used as decor. However, when buying real poinsettias, it’s best to be careful. They’re toxic to pets when ingested. It can cause stomach discomfort and sickness, which is something that nobody should experience during the holidays, even your pets! But that doesn’t mean you have to eliminate them completely, an alternative to these toxic flowers are artificial ones, or keeping them far out of reach from your animals.
4. Tree ornaments
If you’re a cat owner, you know the struggle. Ever heard of the saying, “Curiosity killed the cat?” Well in this situation, take that phrase seriously. Glass ornaments pose a serious risk for pets, especially cats. Because of their curious nature, they may try to play, jump or lay under the Christmas tree. When celebrating the holidays with a cat, it’s a common occurrence to have your Christmas tree knocked over. That’s why it’s important to invest in plastic ornaments rather than a trip to the vet. If glass ornaments are broken, pets can cut themselves or ingest the glass. When glass is ingested, it can cut the intestine and is very hard to break down. It is extremely painful for animals, just as it would be for humans. Therefore, consider the plastic ornaments when debating which one to purchase. It’ll be cheaper than a vet visit!
5. Candles
During Hanukkah, one candle is lit each night. Candles of all kinds can be dangerous for animals if left unattended. They pose a risk for a fire hazard, could burn or injure your animal, and candles made of paraffin wax release toxic fumes when burned. It’s important to check what your candles are made out of so that they don’t irritate your pets respiratory system and cause internal damage. With that being said, before lighting your candle, make sure nothing flammable is around or that it’s in an enclosed area where your pet is unable to get to.
During this holiday season, make sure to use pet friendly decorations when celebrating. Your pets are a part of the family too, and the last thing you’d want is an emergency vet visit.
