Keeping our pets safe is a year-round priority. Make sure the most wonderful time of the year stays wonderful (and accident-free) with our holiday decorating do’s and don’ts.
Tips for a pet-friendly Christmas tree
With a little advance planning, Christmas trees can be safer for your four-legged family member, too.
- Keep breakable ornaments at the top of the tree.
- Avoid using wire hooks — they can cause serious damage if swallowed. Try loops of string tied with a knot instead.
- Stabilize the tree with clear fishing line to avoid tip-overs by energetic pals. Tie one end of the line to the tree and the other end to a sturdy support, like a hook in the wall or a curtain rod.
- Avoid shiny strings of tinsel or edible ornaments that your buddy may be tempted to snack on. Stick to larger, less-enticing decorations — like thick cloth garlands or wide-ribboned bows — that are just as festive without the risk.
- Keep your best friend out of the Christmas tree water (which, if treated with fertilizer or preservatives, can be toxic) by using a pet-proof cover or strategically placed baby gates.
- If all else fails (or you’re a minimalist at heart), try a Christmas tree wall decal. With a 2-D tree, your pal can't get into much trouble.
Avoid holiday plants that are toxic to pets
Popular holiday plants like holly, mistletoe, amaryllis, and lilies — plus common Christmas tree varieties like spruce, fir, and pine — can all be toxic if your pet ingests them. Here’s what to know about each:
Holly
Both the leaves and the berries can cause vomiting, drooling, and abdominal pain in pets. The sharp leaves can also irritate a pet’s mouth and digestive tract. If you love a leafy holiday look, stick to artificial greenery and silk flowers.
Mistletoe
This classic holiday decoration contains toxins that can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and changes in blood pressure or heart rate. Even small amounts can make pets sick — so it’s best to hang artificial mistletoe instead.
Amaryllis
The bulbs, stems, and flowers of amaryllis contain compounds that can trigger drooling, vomiting, and tremors. Keep them out of reach or opt for a pet-safe plant like a Christmas cactus.
Lilies
Lilies are especially dangerous for cats. Even a small nibble or a bit of pollen can cause kidney failure. It’s best to avoid bringing them into your home altogether during the holidays.
Christmas trees
While most Christmas trees aren’t severely toxic, their needles can irritate your pet’s mouth and stomach. Drinking tree water can also cause mild digestive issues. Additionally, be sure your tree is stable. Securing it to the wall or ceiling can help prevent it from tipping over.
Keep stockings away from pets
If you’re hanging stockings, keep them high enough that your buddy can’t tug them down (and possibly get hurt in the process). It’s also smart to postpone filling stockings until the morning they’re opened so little noses aren’t tempted by the smell of treats.
Once your space is secure for your pet, it’s time to have fun! Try these activities with a decorative spin:
- Easy photo wreath: Print photos of your favorite moments with your pal throughout the year, then use wooden clothespins to secure them to an artificial wreath. Hang it up out of reach from any curious paws or noses.
- Salt dough paw print ornament: Mix equal parts salt and flour, then knead in enough water to make a pliable dough. Shape the dough into a thick disc and gently press your buddy’s foot into it. Form a hole in the top of the ornament with your fingers — it will hold the string later. Bake the ornament at 200 degrees Fahrenheit for two to three hours, checking regularly for signs of cracking. After cooling, place it high on your tree with string.
- DIY pet stockings: Follow our simple instructions to make an easy handmade stocking for your cat or your dog.
Pet-friendly Christmas lights
Twinkling lights set the tone for a festive mood, but they can pose a risk to curious pets. Chewing on cords or bulbs may lead to electric shock or mouth injuries, and dangling strands can become a tangle hazard. Choose cool-to-the-touch LED lights instead of traditional incandescent bulbs, secure cords out of reach, and unplug decorations when unattended.
If your pet tends to explore, consider battery-powered lights or placing décor higher up. A few thoughtful adjustments can keep the holidays bright — and your pet safe.
Signs your pet may be overwhelmed
The excitement of guests, flashing lights, loud music, and festive décor can be a lot for pets. Noisy decorations like Christmas crackers, animated displays, or the loud crinkling of presents being unwrapped can startle even the most social pet. Watch for signs of stress like pacing, whining, hiding, trembling, excessive licking, or loss of appetite. If your pal seems overwhelmed, create a quiet retreat stocked with familiar comforts: their bed, favorite toys, and fresh water. Do your best to keep routines consistent, offer gentle reassurance, and limit exposure to overstimulation to help your best friend feel more relaxed.
Have a warm and fuzzy holiday season!
