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The holidays can be a fun time for both pet owners and their furry companions. However, some festivities aren’t the safest for dogs and cats. Here are a few pet care tips to ensure your furry friend safely enjoys the holidays this year.

How to Keep Your Pet Safe During the Holidays

1. Don’t Share Your Food

Avoid feeding your pet any treats and meals that you’ll enjoy—most foods contain substances that are toxic to dogs and cats, including chocolate, xylitol, raisins, and onions. Make sure they can’t access the scraps in the trash, and store leftovers in sealed containers and place them out of their reach.

2. Be Mindful of Holiday Decor

pet careMistletoe and holly can cause gastrointestinal issues in pets when ingested, so opt for plastic versions instead. If you have a cat, leave the tinsel off the tree. This sparkly decoration looks like a fun toy to your feline, but it’ll cause an obstruction in their digestive tract if swallowed.

Additionally, avoid leaving your pet alone with lighted candles or electric Christmas lights. Pets can accidentally knock over candles and spread a flame or experience an electric shock by chewing a live wire.

3. Give Them a Safe Place

When your holiday guests arrive, make sure your pet has a quiet room to go to so that they don’t spend the night overwhelmed by strangers. Choose a dark area, like your bedroom, that’s away from the commotion, and equip their space with comfort objects, such as a soft pillow and their favorite toy.

 

If you’d like more holiday pet care tips, contact the team at Kapolei Pet Hospital in Hawaii. This clinic provides quality veterinary care to animals across Oahu, offering vaccinations, dental treatments, and annual exams. View their full list of services online, or call (808) 462-8040 to schedule an appointment for your furry friend.

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