Getting ready for Christmas? Keep your pet in mind

For most of us, the Christmas period is a change of pace and environment. We deck the halls, invite friends and family round, and fill our home with presents and treats. It’s also a change of pace and environment for our pets, who are more sensitive to disruptions in routine than we are.

And if you share your home with a curious cat or excitable dog, it’s worth taking extra care to keep the festive season incident-free. So here are our festive tips for keeping our pets at front-of-mind while preparing for Christmas.

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Why might Christmas be an issue for pets?

Cats and dogs especially thrive on routine, so a change to their daily schedule can throw them out of whack. This is all but inevitable over the Christmas period, with changes to our working schedules, environment and even how we eat. As such, we should try to make sure things stay as steady as possible for our furry companions.

Expert vet Dr Nicole Olewinski BVSc MRCVS says: “As a vet, I know that the winter holidays we imagine and the festivities our pets need are often very different. We think food and relaxing; they need a stable diet and activity.

“So I’m already planning ahead… A DIY pet carrier so my elderly dog can still join in on long walks; home-baking for my senior cat, who gets diarrhoea at the drop of a hat; and interactive toys and IOU adventure vouchers for my young dog. My canary and zebra finch will get fresh greens and new nesting materials, safe choices I already know they love.

“National holidays are not the time to experiment with the unknown. Well-meant, last-minute ‘inclusion’ gifts can lead to expensive vet trips. And before festivities begin, make sure you know who provides your vet’s out-of-hours care and how to reach them.”

With this in mind, here are some simple yet useful tips for preparing for your pet’s Christmas.

Keep decorations pet-safe

Decorations like baubles, fairy lights and ribbons are household staples during December. And they’re also incredibly tempting for pets. Cats might see dangling ornaments as toys to bat, while dogs could chew on festive decorations, risking injury or choking.

Some pet-safe tips:

• Avoid glass baubles at lower levels.
• Avoid tinsel altogether, which risks choking or intestinal blockage if ingested.
• Keep electrical wires out of reach.

If you have a real Christmas tree:

• Remember that pine needles can be sharp and mildly toxic if ingested. Vacuum regularly to help prevent issues.
• Secure the tree to the wall to prevent it from tipping, or use a sturdy stand.
• If water collects in the stand, make sure it’s covered to keep your pet from drinking it.

Festive food do’s and don’ts

‘Tis the season to indulge, and it’s hard not to spoil your pets during this period too.

Bear in mind that a lot of human food and drink around the house over Christmas can be harmful to both cats and dogs. In particular, keep the following out of reach:

• Chocolate. Emergency vets are inundated with dogs who’ve snaffled chocolate on Christmas morning. Be sure to avoid this.
• Mince pies
• Christmas pudding
• Onions are the worst offender from a typical Christmas dinner.
• Grapes. If you need to pay the cheese tax, don’t give them access to the whole platter.

Keep leftovers and snacks well out of reach. And remind guests not to slip your pet treats under the table.

If you want your pet to join in, keep a stash of pet-friendly alternatives, such as special festive biscuits or treats designed specifically for cats and dogs.

Some recipe ideas:

• The Kennel Club’s Christmas treat recipes include Christmas tree treats, snowball pupcakes, wintery berry bones, and even treats to resemble tasty, tasty owners.
• PDSA homemade Christmas dinner: A vet-approved turkey and veg dinner for both cats and dogs. Doesn’t look hugely appetising (for humans), but doubtlessly delicious.
• Wooof has a range of Christmas-inspired recipes, many of which are configurable to your dog’s tastes. These include lick-mat recipes such as turkey & parsnip, slow-feeder recipes like pork & sweet potato dinner, and a turkey & cranberry Kong recipe.
• Bruce’s Doggy Daycare festive recipes include dog-friendly cookies, pupcakes and dog-safe hot ‘chocolate’.

Find out more about which human food is safe for dogs, and what human food cats can eat.

Stick to a routine

With visitors coming and going, presents piling up and changes in daily rhythm, it’s easy for pets to feel unsettled. Try to maintain their usual feeding, exercise and bedtime routines as much as possible.

Dogs in particular need consistent activity to burn off energy and reduce anxiety. If your cat prefers peace and quiet, provide a safe room or quiet space where they can retreat when things get too busy.

Travel safely and plan ahead

If you’re heading away for the holidays, make arrangements early. Kennels, catteries and trusted pet-sitters often book up quickly during December.

For car journeys, use a secure crate or harness for dogs, and a sturdy carrier for cats. Remember to bring familiar bedding or toys to help them feel more comfortable. If your pet suffers from travel anxiety, speak to your vet in advance for advice or calming options.

Pet pressies

Christmas isn’t just for humans – your pet deserves to feel included too. A new toy, cosy blanket or healthy treat can make them feel part of the celebration.

Be mindful of wrapping materials like ribbon and plastic, which can be dangerous if swallowed.

And if you run out of time, give your pet IOU vouchers. Don’t risk cheap treats or rich foods just to include them. Want some inspiration? Check out our Pet Bucket List for fun ideas for things you can do together.

The gift of calm

Last but not least, be aware that pets pick up on our emotions. Keeping a relaxed, cheerful atmosphere helps them feel secure and happy throughout the festive season. Whether you’re watching Home Alone with your cat curled up beside you or walking your dog through frosty fields, spending quality time together is the best gift you can give.

More Christmas tips and advice, here’s how to keep your cat safe this Christmas.