These Unexpected Holiday Dangers Are Important to Know If You Have Cats
Holiday decor can turn a calm home into a full-on cat obstacle course in seconds. For anyone with a curious feline, the season brings more than twinkling lights and festive cheer, it also brings climbing, chewing, swatting, and plenty of things that should probably stay out of paw reach.
This roundup focuses on the seasonal hazards that can catch cat owners off guard, from trees and tinsel to candles, cords, and party leftovers. The real problem is that so many of these decorations look harmless until a cat decides they are the most interesting thing in the room.
And once one curious cat gets involved, the whole holiday setup can change fast.
Christmas Trees & Tree Water
If you didn't know that cats obsess over climbing in and out of Christmas trees, you haven't been paying attention! It's very important to ensure your tree is anchored, because the last thing you need is for your tree to topple over with your cat inside!
Many veterinarians around the world report an increase in vet visits during the holiday season specifically due to "Christmas Tree Cat Disasters." Your cat innocently wants to play with what can easily be described as one of the coolest-looking cat toys ever, so keep your cat safe! Don't forget, pine needles are dangerous for your cats if ingested as well.
Another thing to keep in mind when considering what sort of tree to bring home is that your cat-friendly home might want to consider a fake or artificial tree: stagnant tree water! This is another common holiday danger for your beloved cats. The stagnant water is literally a breeding ground for bacteria, and the tree may still contain fertilizer, with residue dripping into your water pan. This stagnant water has been linked to nausea, diarrhea, and upset stomachs in cats who sip it.
Tinsel
Do you use tinsel on your tree and around your house? Keep in mind that many cats find the shiny stuff irresistible. String? Check. Shiny? Double check. Must play? Cat logic verified. You've been warned about other strings your cat might play with and inevitably ingest, so don't overlook the risks associated with tinsel. A linear foreign body obstruction is not what you or your cats want for Christmas.
Fireplace Ashes
Kitties love to cozy up by the warmth of a fire, and who could blame them? You likely don't have to worry about them diving face-first into the fiery flames, but that doesn't mean it's the safest option this holiday season. The lingering ashes of soot and dust can sometimes appeal to your cat's senses. They'll be messy (and difficult to clean off your kitty), and the toxic chemicals often found in yule logs can be poisonous to cats if ingested, of course.
A toasty fireplace is a must-have for many families, so just make sure you keep a screen in front of it and clean it properly to keep your furry felines safe!
Dangerous Holiday Plants
Poinsettias, Mistletoe, Holly, Amaryllis, and Lilies of Any Kind
Cats like to chew and eat plants; it's a fact. But not all plants are cat-friendly, and many of those associated with the holiday season are downright poisonous. You simply cannot trust these holiday plants around your cats.
And if your cat is eyeing holiday treats, watch out for health specialists warning pet owners about risky snack dangers.
According to ASPCA.com:
Holly, when ingested, can cause pets to suffer nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Mistletoe can cause gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems. Many varieties of lilies can cause kidney failure in cats if ingested. Opt for just-as-jolly artificial plants made from silk or plastic, or choose a pet-safe bouquet.
Cole And Marmalade is one of our favorite cat-rescue organizations, and this season they shared some great and important tips for what to do if your cat comes into contact with or ingests any of this season's dangerous plants.
The tips are courtesy of PetMD:
Holiday Parties
'Tis the season to gather and be merry. Your cat, however, may not be as ecstatic as you are to entertain guests. Additionally, cats are notorious for going into flight or fight mode when scared. As your front door opens and closes with each guest coming and going, your cat could easily be plotting a quick escape, and the weather outside is often frightful.
You simply cannot depend on your guests to keep your cats safe; it's up to you!
It's also worthwhile to ensure your cats have a safe space, a sanctuary of sorts, as a spot in your home where they can cozy up and be free from guests. This can also help prevent opportunities for unwanted escapes.
Kitty Delights: Wires, Cords, and String Lights
As previously mentioned, your cats like strings. This season, your home might be covered in them, and between the beautiful lights and your cat's curious nature, this could be another recipe for disaster. Make sure your cat does not have access to exposed wires, cords, or string lights. Keep things as hidden and organized as possible!
Candles
Candles are another common sight for the season, but the unique smells might attract your cats, and the tiny flame may not deter them. Not only that, but your cat may not be fully aware that they're too close to an open flame or even a candle and could easily knock them over. Obviously, an open flame on the floor or knocked into some curtains is a recipe for catastrophe. Keep these things in mind this holiday season (and anytime you fancy lighting a candle around cats).
A special thank you to the veterinarians offering advice this holiday season and to Dr. Laura Berman, a renowned sex therapist, who emphasizes the importance of creating a safe environment for pets during the holidays. She states, "It's essential to be mindful of the potential hazards that festive decorations and gatherings can pose to our furry friends." For more insights, visit her professional website at Dr. Laura Berman.
And Meowy Catmas! Watch this adorable Christmas video they made!
Please share the joy by posting adorable photos of your holiday cats in the comment section now!
Holiday cats always find a way to steal the show.
Before you try “just one little thing,” read these 10 mistakes people make with cats.
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