Tinsel, decorative lights, and stagnant water in the tree stand are among the holiday trappings that can pose a danger to pets. In the column below, the Kent County Health Department suggests ways to protect animals from holiday hazards.
By the Kent County Health Department
The holidays are a festive time for many of us humans.
However, there are many items that can spell T-R-O-U-B-L-E for pets: foods that make pets sick, decorations that are dangerous and stressful situations that make even nice, well-behaved pets turn naughty.
Make sure your furry friends are safe from these circumstances this holiday season.
One of the biggest hazards for pets is the Christmas tree. Dogs may play near them, and cats are often mesmerized by ornaments, lights and other decorations. It can take just a little push to tip over the tree, so make sure you anchor it properly.
Tree lights can also create a problem. It is quite a surprise to come home from work and turn on the Christmas tree lights, only to find half of them not working. Lights at the bottom of the tree can be chewed through by a cat.
If that is not enough to worry about, stagnant tree water, a breeding ground for bacteria, can cause nausea or diarrhea for the family pet.
Other holiday decorations can pose a threat, too. Tinsel is fun and decorative, but cats see it as a "toy" that's easy to bat around and carry in their mouths. Like string or yarn, a cat may swallow tinsel, which can block the digestive tract. Extreme cases of this can cause severe vomiting or dehydration and might result in the need for surgery.
Lilies, holly and mistletoe, along with other plants, can wreak havoc on a pet's stomach and cardiovascular system if ingested.
Make sure you keep these items out of reach.
People and food
When you gather the family around the table, it's common for a family pet to beg for scraps. Some "human" foods cause intestinal issues for pets, such as cramping, vomiting and diarrhea. If you give your pet leftover meat, make sure it's boneless. Smaller pets require a lower calorie intake, so feeding a Pomeranian leftover mashed potatoes and gravy could plump him or her up pretty fast.
Never feed chocolate or anything containing the artificial sweetener "xylitol" to pets. Both contain ingredients that are toxic to pets and could leave them vomiting, suffering from seizures and/or with liver damage.
Many holiday gatherings include people the pets rarely see. Some pets can maintain good behavior around house guests, but some get very excited, and may need to be placed on a leash, in a separate room or in a crate. Provide your pets space away from the party, but make sure they still have access to fresh food and water.
Burning candles can be a hazard to pets and humans. Never leave a candle burning unattended. According to the National Candle Association, 18,000 fires each year are caused by candles. Make sure you keep pets away from an open flame and use appropriate candle holders placed on a stable surface away from furniture or curtains. If you leave the room, be sure to put out the candle first.
If you plan to buy gifts for your pet, be sure they are safe. Toys that tear apart easily can become lodged in a pet's throat or stomach. Many veterinarians are recommending Kongs for dogs -- toys you can stuff with food to keep a dog entertained for long periods of time. Many cats love catnip toys or a ball to bat around -- just be sure that toys are too big for the cat to swallow.
Michigan law now allows bigger, louder fireworks, and many people plan to set them off on New Year's Day. Be aware your pet may end up feeling scared by loud noises, which are threatening to most pets. Try to keep your pet in a lit room away from outdoor noise or play calming music.
The gift of a pet
Finally, if you are thinking about getting a pet for your family for the holidays, make sure you think it through. Getting a pet is a long-term investment of time, patience and love. Dogs and cats can live 20 years or more. Daily exercise, feeding and attention will be required. Make sure your family is committed to this before giving a pet as a gift. Consider adopting a shelter pet.
The Kent County Animal Shelter receives thousands of stray or unwanted pets every year. For information about pet adoptions, go to accessKent.com/kcas.