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Our Top 5 Holiday Safety Tips for Pets

Let's keep the fa-la-la-la going strong.

The holidays! Those two words are filled with magic, eliciting all kinds of cozy cheer. From special treats to family traditions, this season is meant to be cherished with those you love most. And as we all know, that definitely includes pets.  


In the spirit of keeping everyone happy, healthy and safe, we’re here with five tips to make your season bright — or at least, without a single trip to the pet emergency room. We’re all for getting festive, but even common household items can pose a risk to your pet’s health. Keep these tips in mind, and have a happy (and preferably disaster free) holiday season.  


1. Reconsider the holiday houseplants. Here’s a list of seasonal greenery that can be toxic or otherwise unpleasant for dogs and cats:  

  • Poinsettias

  • Holly and mistletoe

  • Lilies and daffodils  

  • Amaryllis  

  • Christmas cactus  


As for the traditional Christmas tree? Fir trees produce oils that can irritate your pet’s mouth and stomach. To be safe, keep your tree blocked off so your pet can’t get too close.  


2. Toss the tinsel. Although this shiny decoration isn’t poisonous, it can cause several intestinal damage if ingested. Tinsel is especially attractive to curious cats, who might think it’s a toy. Same goes for ribbons and bows — keep them high up and out of reach.  


3. Feed human food to humans. If you’re entertaining guests, let them know ahead of time that your pet shouldn’t be fed scraps. And make sure your pets don’t get a hold of these toxic foods:  

  • Chocolate

  • Grapes and raisins

  • Chopped onions and garlic

  • Xylitol (a sugar alternative common in cake and cookie mixes)  

  • Cherries

Several other foods can cause severe digestive discomfort, such as fatty foods, avocado and mushrooms. A foolproof rule of thumb: Don’t give your pet any food meant for humans.  


4. Keep a close eye on candles.

When it comes to festive flames, one swipe of a paw can spell disaster. Place candles out of reach, or opt for battery-operated alternatives that still promise that cozy glow. Also stay watchful of essential oils and diffusers, which can attract the attention of a curious pet.  


5. Prioritize their comfort.

The holidays are a busy time with guests, activities, and more hustle and bustle than usual. Make sure your pet always has access to their food and water, as well as items that might soothe stress — like their bed or a few favorite toys. Watch for open doors in case they try to dart outside, and have unfamiliar guests approach them slowly and at eye level.  

Got a pet question for our blog experts to answer? Email us at support@halopets.com and we’ll get to work 🐾