Believe it or not, the holiday season is upon us. This is a pretty fun time of year for our feline pals. Kitties are naturally mischievous and playful. However, that frisky streak can get Fluffy into trouble! In this article, a local Marietta, GA vet lists some holiday dangers for people owned by cats to be aware of.
Decorations
Many decorations are going to look a lot like toys to your furry friend. Keep anything small, sharp, breakable, and/or shiny out of paws’ reach! Ribbons, garlands, string lights, and tinsel are also dangerous. They can choke or entangle playful pets, and can cause serious internal injuries if swallowed.
Fires
Candles and fireplaces are really those perfect finishing touches to a holiday setup. Kitties and flames are a dangerous mix! Keep candles in thick holders and put them in spots Fluffy can’t get to. If you have a fireplace, put a grate in front of it so your frisky pet can’t get too close.
Trees
Are you putting a tree up? There’s a good chance that your kitty will immediately perk up when she sees it. To Fluffy, that beautiful holiday centerpiece is basically a giant cat tower hung with toys. Put any fragile ornaments on the top part of the tree, where your feline friend can’t get to them. Only put a few non-breakable items on the lower branches. If you have a real tree, we also recommend covering the water bowl so your pet can’t drink it. If you know or suspect that your furry pal may try to climb the tree, use fishing line to secure the top to the wall or ceiling.
Plants
Did you know that many popular holiday plants are toxic to Fluffy? Poinsettias, holly, ivy, and mistletoe are all poisonous to kitties. If you get real plants, keep them in a spot your feline buddy can’t reach.
Stress
Cats are very much creatures of habit. Even the friendliest furball can get unsettled by some of the hustle and bustle of the holidays. If you’re hosting a big party, put Fluffy in a quiet room with food, toys, bedding, and a litterbox. Your drowsy feline will likely be perfectly happy to sleep through the festivities.
Happy Holidays from all of us here at Smyrna Animal Hospital, your local Marietta, GA vet clinic. Please feel free to contact us anytime!
