Holiday Hazards: Keep Yuba City Pets Safe
The holiday season brings joy, togetherness, and festive traditions, but it can also introduce hidden dangers for our furry friends. At Adobe Animal Hospital & Laser Surgery Center, we want to help families celebrate safely by shining a light on the most common seasonal hazards and how to protect your pets.
Tempting Treats and Toxic Foods
From turkey dinners to cookie trays, the holidays mean an abundance of food, but some of our favorite dishes can be dangerous for pets. Be especially cautious with:
- Chocolate: can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, or worse
- Grapes and raisins: toxic to dogs and can lead to kidney failure
- Onions and garlic: damage red blood cells and may cause anemia
- Xylitol (found in sugar-free candy and gum): triggers dangerous drops in blood sugar
- Fatty table scraps like turkey skin, gravy, or bones: may cause stomach upset or pancreatitis
The safest plan is to keep pets on their regular diet and offer only veterinarian-approved treats. Remind guests not to share food under the table, no matter how pleading those eyes may be.
Dangerous Decorations
Holiday décor adds sparkle and charm to your home, but it can also put pet health at risk for curious cats and dogs. To minimize hazards, try these tips from your trusted vet hospital in CA:
- Place fragile ornaments high on the tree.
- Use pet-safe alternatives to tinsel.
- Supervise pets around decorations.
- Use protective covers over electrical cords.
- Keep cords out of sight whenever possible.
- Never leave candles, fireplaces, or menorahs unattended.
- Consider flameless candles for a safer glow.
Stress from Visitors and Noise
Parties, fireworks, and houseguests can overwhelm even the most social pets. Loud noises and disrupted routines may lead to anxiety, hiding, or destructive behavior. Provide a quiet, comfortable retreat where your pet can relax away from the bustle. Soft music, familiar bedding, and a favorite toy can help soothe stress. If your pet struggles with anxiety, talk to your vet hospital in CA about calming aids or other solutions.
Plants to Avoid
Seasonal greenery looks festive, but many popular holiday plants are toxic to pets. Some of the biggest culprits include:
- Poinsettias: cause mild stomach upset and drooling
- Holly: can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy
- Mistletoe: may trigger heart problems, low blood pressure, or collapse
- Lilies: extremely dangerous for cats, often causing kidney failure
When in doubt, choose artificial plants or keep live arrangements well out of paw’s reach.
Prioritize Holiday Pet Safety in Yuba City
With a little preparation, you can focus on creating warm memories while keeping your pets out of harm’s way. If your pet does get into something they shouldn’t or shows signs of illness, don’t wait—seek care immediately.
Wishing You a Safe and Happy Holiday
Our team is here to support pet health in Yuba City year-round, offering preventive care, pain management, and advanced treatment options like laser surgery. From all of us, we wish you and your four-legged friends a safe, happy holiday season!