The holidays bring extra warmth to the house, but they also fill it with new temptations for curious pets. More food sits within reach, more visitors come and go, and the usual routine can disappear overnight. Dr. Nita Vasudevan, a veterinarian with Embrace Pet Insurance, notes that this season changes a pet’s environment more than almost any other time of year. That mix of novelty and excitement can turn a calm celebration into an urgent vet visit if a few common hazards are overlooked.
One of the biggest mistakes, Dr. Vasudevan says, is leaving potentially toxic items where pets can chew or swallow them when nobody is watching. Holiday decorations are especially risky because animals do not see them as decorations at all. Tinsel can look like a shiny toy, but if swallowed it can lead to a dangerous intestinal blockage that may require surgery. Ribbons, string, and bows from gift wrapping can cause similar problems if eaten. Glass ornaments add another layer of danger since broken pieces can cut a mouth or injure the digestive tract if swallowed.
Seasonal setups often mean more cords, too, and pets that like to nibble can end up chewing electrical cables. That can cause painful mouth burns and, in severe cases, electric shock. Candles can also create trouble since wax may irritate the stomach if ingested, and a knocked-over flame can start a fire in seconds. Many popular holiday plants are not pet friendly either. Dr. Vasudevan warns that poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe can upset the stomach if eaten, while amaryllis is particularly toxic and may even trigger tremors.
Food is another major holiday trap, especially when pets are eager for table scraps. Xylitol, found in many sugar-free sweets and gum, is extremely dangerous for dogs because it can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar and may lead to liver failure. Chocolate is well known for being risky since it contains theobromine and caffeine, and dark chocolate is the most concentrated. Onions, garlic, and leeks can damage red blood cells in both dogs and cats, while grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure even in small amounts. Alcohol should never be offered, and rich, fatty foods like skin, drippings, and heavy sauces can trigger pancreatitis, with vomiting and diarrhea among the warning signs.
Keeping pets safe is mostly about planning the space the same way people baby-proof a home. Close off the kitchen during cooking, use gates if needed, and do not leave food unattended on counters. Decorate with intention by placing fragile ornaments higher up, skipping tinsel if cats are in the house, and covering or hiding light cords. Feed pets before guests arrive so they are less motivated to hunt for snacks, and keep trash secured. If the bustle makes an animal anxious, Dr. Vasudevan suggests talking with a veterinarian about support options so the season stays calmer for everyone.
What holiday safety rule has made the biggest difference in your home with pets? Share your best tips and close calls in the comments.
