As the holiday season begins, you may be looking forward to spending time with your extended family, going on vacation, hosting parties, and decorating your home. While this can be an exciting time of year for you, it may be frightening and even dangerous for your pets. Changes in their usual routine, an influx of unfamiliar guests, and snacks and decorations left around the house can spell trouble for your dog or cat.

The veterinarians from Parkview Animal Hospital in Lincoln, NE, understand the importance of proper pet care during this time of year. Continue reading below as they explain what you can do to keep your pets safe this holiday season.

Veterinarians Explain What You Should Do to Keep Your Pets Safe This Holiday Season

Maintain Their Routine

Although this time of year can get hectic, it is important to stick to your pet’s usual routine as much as possible. Knowing when they will eat, nap, and go outside to play helps establish your pet’s natural rhythms and prevents unnecessary stress. Deviating from this routine can negatively impact your pet’s health and mood, particularly if they are older.

Keep Decorations Out of Reach

String lights, tinsel, and mistletoe are among the biggest holiday dangers to pets, especially cats. These twinkling decorations can tempt felines and—if left unsupervised—your cat may end up tearing down lights, chewing through wires, or eating bits of tinsel. To avoid an emergency trip to the veterinarian, secure holiday lights and skip out on the tinsel and mistletoe which can be toxic.

Clean Up After Gatherings

Make a conscious effort to clean your home after hosting parties. If food, treats, and alcoholic beverages are left out overnight, your pet may eat them and become ill. Stray pieces of wrapping paper, ribbon, and bits of confetti can also be dangerous if consumed by your pet, and should be disposed of as well.

Establish a Private Area

If you have a shy or anxious pet, create a private area in your home where they can retreat during parties. This space can be a bedroom, closet, or basement where they will be safe from noise and strange guests. Including food, water, a soft place to sleep, and a favorite toy helps keep your pet calm.

Ensure Proper Care Before Travel

If you are going out of town, establish a care plan for your pet while you are away. Depending on your pet’s needs and the length of your vacation, this can mean having your pet stay with friends, having a trusted family member stop by to feed them, or boarding them with a kennel.

For more tips on caring for your pet this holiday season, contact Parkview Animal Hospital by calling (402) 423-6939. To schedule an appointment with a veterinarian or to learn more about spaying, neutering, and other procedures, visit them online.