HOLIDAY HAZARDS

Valentine’s Day

Flowers and candy

Many types of flowers and plants found in the bouquets are harmful to dogs and cats, if they are ingested (see the list of hazardous plants). Chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, abnormal hear rhythm, tremors and seizures, and, in severe cases, chocolate poisoning can be fatal.

Easter

Fake grass

This colorful “grass” may look appetizing to your pets, but it could cause them to choke or obstruct their intestines, if ingested.

Small toys and other plastic items

If swallowed, small toys and plastic Easter eggs can cause your pet to choke or even damage their intestinal tracts.

4th of July

Fireworks

Fireworks can scare your pets making them run off, or cause serious injuries if detonated near them. Many formulations are also toxic, if ingested.

Halloween

Repeatedly opening doors to greet trick-or-treaters can increase the chances of your pets running out. Keep an eye on their whereabouts at all times. If feasibly keep cats in a secure area or closed room when opening doors.

Candles

Pets are naturally curios, and may be attracted to the bright lights of the flame in dark areas. Dogs and cats could either burn themselves by the flame or knock the candle over, starting a fire.

Xylitol

Candy or gum sweetened with xylitol is toxic and should be kept away from your pet.

All forms of chocolate can be harmful to your pet, potentially resulting in poisoning or even pancreatic inflammation from the high fat content.

Thanksgiving

Bones

Turkey, chicken, and other small animal bones are very different from the large bones you find at the pet stores. These small bones splinter easily and can cause serious internal damage if swallowed, so NEVER give them to your pet.

Hot containers

Your dog or cat will most likely become curios when they smell something cooking. Keep an eye on hot containers so that your pet does not tip them over and get burned.

Christmas

Holiday plants

Christmas rose, Holly, Lilies and Mistletoe are all toxic to dogs and cats.

Ribbons

It may look adorable, but placing a ribbon around your pet’s neck may cause them to choke.

Bubbling lights

Older forms of this attractive decoration may contain methylene chloride, which is a highly toxic chemical.

Fire salts

Contain chemicals that could be harmful to your pet.

Angel hair (spun glass)

Can be irritating to eyes and skin, and could cause intestinal obstruction if eaten in large amounts.

Christmas tree water

Stagnant tree water or water containing preservatives could result in stomach upset if ingested.

Decoration hooks

Can cause blockage and/or trauma to gastrointestinal tract if swallowed.

Styrofoam

Can cause your pet to choke if swallowed.

Ornaments

These can look like toys to cats and dogs, but they can cause serious injury, especially if your pets break or swallow them.

Tinsel

Can cause choking or internal trauma if swallowed.

New Year’s

Balloons and Confetti

These fun New Year’s party decorations can cause your pets to choke or obstruct their intestines if ingested. Keep an eye on your pets when they are around these items or move them to an area that is not decorated.

Loud noises

New Year’s is typically a noisy holiday. Unfortunately, loud noises frighten pets and can cause them to run off. Keep your pets in a separate room, away from noisemakers, music, and other loud sounds that may startle them.