How To Celebrate a Pet Friendly Christmas?

‘Tis the season for celebration and joy. Christmas means time with family, a celebration of the birth of Christ, delicious food, and warm company. Our pets are very much a part of the family, so it feels only right to include them in these festive moments as well.

However, the holiday season can also be stressful for pets. With food everywhere, frequent visitors, loud noises, and decorative objects around the house, pets often feel overwhelmed. With a little extra attention and a few simple precautions, Christmas can be just as happy and safe for your pet as it is for you.

Here are some thoughtful steps you can take to make the occasion more pet-friendly.

Reduce and Manage Stress During Gatherings

Christmas often brings a steady flow of visitors. While this is enjoyable for us, pets may struggle with unfamiliar faces, constant noise, and disrupted routines. This is especially true for pets that are anxious or sensitive around strangers.

When pets feel overwhelmed, they may show unusual behaviour:

• Dogs may hide, bark excessively, or show signs of aggression
• Cats often withdraw and hide in quiet corners
• Some pets stop eating or become restless

What you can do:

• Give your pet a quiet, familiar space away from guests
• Limit interaction with people who make your pet uneasy
• Maintain feeding and walking routines as much as possible

If your pet shows severe anxiety, it is best to consult a veterinarian. In some cases, professional advice or temporary solutions such as short pet travel or boarding may help reduce stress.

Avoid Injuries Caused by Decorations and Ornaments

A Christmas tree covered in lights and ornaments is beautiful, but it can be risky for pets. Shiny decorations easily attract curious cats, while dogs may chew or pull at ornaments to investigate them.

Common risks include:

• Broken baubles causing cuts
• Swallowed decorations becoming choking hazards
• Electrical wires being chewed
• Trees tipping over if climbed or pulled

Dogs may also mistake a tree indoors for a new marking spot, which can quickly spoil the festive mood.

Simple precautions:

• Place fragile ornaments higher up on the tree
• Secure the tree firmly so it cannot fall
• Keep lights, wires, and tinsel out of reach
• Supervise pets when decorations are accessible

Prevention is the safest way to avoid injuries during the holidays.

Which Christmas Foods Are Unsafe for Pets

Christmas meals are a highlight for people, but many festive foods are unsafe for pets. Sharing food from your plate, even in small amounts, can sometimes cause serious health issues.

Foods that are unsafe for pets include:

• Chocolate and cocoa-based desserts
• Onions, garlic, and leeks
• Raisins, dried fruits, and nuts
• Coffee and alcohol
• Cooked bones, especially poultry bones

Many pet parents wonder if foods like turkey are safe. While plain, boneless, well-cooked turkey may be safe in small amounts, seasoned meat, stuffing, gravy, and cooked bones should always be avoided. Bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries.

Feeding tips for the festive season:

• Stick to your pet’s regular diet
• Avoid sudden food changes
• Offer pet-safe treats instead of table scraps
• Ensure guests do not feed your pet without asking

A little caution can prevent digestive issues like vomiting or diarrhoea during the holidays.

Keep a Watchful Eye During Celebrations

With excitement in the air, it is easy to miss small signs of discomfort in pets. Watch for changes in behaviour, appetite, or energy levels. If something feels off, it is always better to act early rather than wait.

The festive season can be overwhelming, but with care and awareness, it can also be joyful for everyone involved. By following these simple steps, you can help ensure your pet enjoys a safe, calm, and happy Christmas. Merry Christmas to all pets and pet parents, and wishing you a joyful New Year.