Pet proof your home for the holidays: A guide for dog and cat owners

The holidays bring sparkle, scents, and decorations we love... but for pets, Christmas can be one giant playground of tempting hazards. Whether you have a mischievous cat who climbs everything, or a curious dog who sniffs (and eats) anything, a little preparation can keep the season safe and stress-free. Here’s your complete guide to pet-proofing your home for Christmas, ensuring your furry family members stay healthy and happy.

1. Choose a Pet-Safe Christmas Tree Setup.

• Secure the tree! Dogs may bump into it. Cats may try to scale it. Anchor your tree to the wall using fishing line or a command hook. Choose a sturdy tree stand with a wide base.

• If you have a real tree, block the water bowl. Tree water often contains sap, fertilizer, or preservatives that can make pets sick. Cover the water with a tree skirt, aluminum foil, or a plastic barrier.

• Go artificial if possible! Real pine needles can irritate mouths and paws if chewed. They’re also sharp and can cause stomach issues. Additionally, real trees are typically more irresistible for cats.

2. Decorate With Pet Safety in Mind.

• Keep fragile ornaments high. Glass, ceramic, or sentimental ornaments should go on the top half of the tree. The lower branches should contain soft, pet-safe, non-toxic decor only.

• Avoid tinsel! Tinsel is irresistible to cats but extremely dangerous if swallowed—it can cause intestinal blockages requiring surgery.

  
  

• Secure light cords. Chewing cords can lead to burns or electrocution.

• Use cord protectors.

• Tuck cords under rugs or behind furniture.

• Unplug lights when you leave the house. Skip edible decorations - Popcorn garlands, candy canes, or gingerbread ornaments are basically pet magnets.

3. Beware of Toxic Christmas Plants. Many festive plants are mildly to severely poisonous to pets. Here’s what to avoid or place out of reach.

• Poinsettias (mildly toxic but cause vomiting and drooling)

• Holly (more dangerous; can cause severe GI upset)

• Mistletoe (can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even heart issues)

• Lilies (deadly for cats)

Safer alternatives:

• Christmas cactus

• Spider plants

• Rosemary topiary

• Faux holiday greenery! If you must have the real thing, put these plants on high shelves or inside closed-off rooms.

4. Pet-Safe Gift Wrapping

• Keep ribbons and string away. Cats especially love chewing ribbons, which can cause

  dangerous blockages.

  
  

• Store wrapping supplies- tape, scissors, and small decorative pieces can be choking hazards.

  
  

• Watch out for batteries! Many holiday toys and gadgets use button batteries - which are extremely dangerous if swallowed. Store gifts safely until it’s time to open them.

5. Candle & Fire Safety

• Never leave candles unattended - pets can easily knock them over.

• Consider flame-less LED candles for a safer glow.

• Use a fire screen to protect pets from sparks and hot embers.

6. Protect Your Holiday Treats

The Christmas kitchen is filled with delicious smells and dangerous ingredients.

Foods that are toxic to pets:

• Chocolate

• Grapes & raisins

• Onions & garlic

• Xylitol (found in sugar-free candy & gum)

• Fatty meats or skin

• Alcohol

• Yeast dough

Tips:

• Keep food on high counters or inside cabinets

• Use baby gates to block off the kitchen during cooking

• Brief guests not to sneak scraps to your pets!

7. Create a Cozy, Calm Space

Holiday gatherings can be stressful, especially for anxious pets.

Set up a safe room with:

• Their bed or crate

• Fresh water

• Toys or enrichment chews

• Calming music or a white noise machine - This keeps pets contained, prevents escape attempts when guests come and go, and helps reduce stress.

8. Extra Tips for Cats

• Use citrus, menthol, or apple-bitter sprays on the tree to deter climbing.

• Provide alternative climbing spaces (cat tree, window perch).

9. Extra Tips for Dogs

• Provide long-lasting chews or toys to keep them distracted from decor.

• Use baby gates to block off decorated rooms if necessary.

• Give lots of exercise before guests arrive to reduce hyperactivity.

Christmas can be magical and safe with just a little planning. By securing decorations, choosing pet-safe plants, and watching holiday foods, you’ll help ensure your pets enjoy the season as much as you do. A safe pet is a happy holiday pet.

Here’s to a festive, cozy, and pet-proof Christmas!