The Cat's Meow - Ways to Protect Your Cat During the Holiday Season

Rob "Power of the Meow" Stanson on Dec 2, 2008

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From Rose E. in Lanexa, VA

"I've heard a lot about the holidays and pets, especially cats. Is it true that poinsettas are poisonous to cats? Will my cat try to play with my tree and strangle herself on the tinsel? Can she electrocute herself on the power cords? Should I not decorate at all since I have a new cat?"

It's sad but true but - according to the American Animal Hospital Association thousands of pets will suffer a holiday-related accident or illness this season. Since more than 60 percent of pet owners include their pets in holiday festivities, and 79 percent give pets holiday gifts, you can protect your pet by being aware of simple hazards.

- Christmas tree lights and electrical cords can cause fatal shock and/or burns to cats that chew on them.

- Loose cords can entangle pets, leading to choking hazards,or the possibility of the pet accidently pulling over the tree or other decorations.

- Decorative plants such as holly, mistletoe and poinsetta are bad for pets, and can be toxic.

- Holiday foods such as chocolate,alcohol, nuts and spicy sauces can be toxic.

- Bones and Plastic food wrap can cause choking and/or obstruct a pet's digestive system,and may require surgery.

- Tinsel,ribbons and some kinds of wrapping paper can also lead to choking.

- Any open flame is a potential fire hazard. Keep pets away from candles, fireplaces and any other open flames. A door or screen should be kept in front of any open fireplace.

- Be cautious about dressing pets in holiday related costumes. Parts can become dislodged and cause choking!

I wouldn't necessarily recommend not decorating at all, but I would be selective. The first year we had Mina we had no tree and instead decorated our bookcase! And, of course, Agatha just had to chew on every ribbon that was under the tree. Our friends got used to getting packages that had tooth-marked ribbons!

So long as you take common sense precautions, your kitty should be just fine!

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Cat fancier Rob "Power of the Meow" Stanson has been an observer and studied cats for over twenty years. Visit him at "The Cat's Meow" where you can view the archives or ask him your own question which he will answer in a future column!