Here are some things to keep in mind during the holidays to keep your cat safe. There are many dangers around your Christmas tree for cats. The water at the base of the tree may have fertilizers or plant food which could make your cat sick if he or she drinks it. The stagnant water is a breeding fiesta for bacteria which could cause your pet nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if they drink it.
The electric cords for your Christmas tree lights pose a shock hazard for your cat. Remember the movie “Christmas Vacation?” You don’t want your cat to be electrocuted by chewing on cords. Treat your cords with a taste deterrent like “Bitter Apple” and cover or arrange them so they are out of your cat’s reach. Do not use tinsel or tinsel like ribbon on your Christmas tree. Cats love to eat tinsel and it can become lodged in their intestines and cause blockage. When decorating your tree be sure and place glass ornaments out of reach if you use them at all. Glass ornaments break easily and could injure your cat.
There are other holiday items unrelated to your Christmas tree you need to be careful with. Batteries, for example, are corrosive and poisonous. If your cat starts chewing on a battery it could cause blisters in the mouth, throat, and intestine. The following is a list of items you should keep out of your cat’s reach.
1. Any drink containing alcohol
2. Chocolate in any form
3. Coffee, in a cup, beans, or grinds
4. Spoiled food
5. Onions
6. Fried foods
7. Salt
8. Dough
9. Holiday plants: lilies, poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe
10. Medication, over the counter or prescription
11. Potpourri
Remember during the holidays your veterinarian office may have reduced hours. Some pet owners may try and give medication to a sick cat without consulting a veterinarian. Do not, under any circumstances, give medication to your cat without consulting a veterinarian first. Many medications can be deadly when administered to a 15 pound cat; never give pain killers like Tylenol or aspirin.
