Food and Holiday Decor Dangers For Pets
The holidays bring joy, guests, and an abundance of food and decorations, all of which can create hidden hazards for pets. A curious nose can turn a festive moment into a veterinary emergency. This guide explains the most common holiday foods and decoration risks for dogs and cats, shows how to prevent problems, and tells you exactly what to do if something goes wrong.
Holiday foods that can poison or harm pets
Holiday meals are often so tempting that we want to share a bite with our pets, but many traditional dishes contain ingredients that can be harmful or even deadly if ingested by them.
Chocolate and cocoa. Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which dogs and cats metabolize slowly. Always keep candy bowls, baking supplies, and trash tightly secured and out of reach.
Xylitol (artificial sweetener). Found in sugar-free gum, some candies, certain baked goods, peanut butter brands, and even toothpaste. Even small amounts are dangerous to pets. Check the ingredient lists and keep “sugar-free” items locked away extra tight.
Grapes, raisins, currants. Ingredients common in fruitcakes, stuffing, and holiday breads, these can cause acute kidney failure in dogs. The toxic dose is unpredictable, so any ingestion should trigger a call to your vet or poison control.
Onions, garlic, chives, and leeks. Often included in gravies, stuffing, and other holiday favorites, these ingredients can be harmful to pets and should be kept off their menu.
Fatty scraps, bones, and dough. Rich gravies and fatty trimmings can cause vomiting, pancreatitis, or dangerous intestinal upset. Cooked bones can splinter and perforate the gut; raw dough can expand in the stomach and produce alcohol from yeast fermentation which is a direct trip to the emergency vet if consumed.
Alcohol, caffeine, and certain nuts. From cocktails to coffee to nut mixes, these items can pose risks for pets. Make sure they stay out of reach, particularly snacks containing macadamia nuts. (ASPCA)
Make the Holidays Pet‑Proof
A little planning can go a long way in reducing holiday hazards for pets. One of the most effective strategies is to designate a pet‑safe zone, a quiet room away from high‑traffic areas, decorations, and food stations. Offering your pet their favourite toys and a comfortable bed in that space helps keep them entertained and calm, so they’re less likely to roam under the tree or explore the buffet area.
Holiday plants also require careful thought. Popular festive greenery such as mistletoe, poinsettias, or holly can be toxic to pets if ingested. Instead of placing these plants at pet‑height, either avoid them altogether or position them high out of reach so that no curious paws or noses can reach leaves, berries, or water in the stand.
Decorations themselves carry risk, especially for pets who love to play with or chew on things. Tinsel, ribbons, and loose cords are appealing to cats in particular, but can cause life‑threatening intestinal blockages if swallowed. Similarly, trees should be properly anchored to prevent tipping, and edible ornaments or dangling strings should be avoided in areas accessible to pets. (AVMA)
Finally, guest behaviour plays an important role. It’s helpful to let visitors know your pets are present, asking guests not to feed them table scraps, and reminding them to keep gift bags, purses, and leftover food out of paw reach. Many holiday emergencies occur simply because a guest left unattended food within reach. Education and a gentle reminder go a long way in keeping things safe and stress‑free for everyone.
What to do if your pet eats something they shouldn’t
If your pet consumes a potentially harmful substance, acting quickly and calmly can make a big difference. Begin by removing access to the substance and saving any packaging or remnants of food, candy, or household products. This information will be invaluable to veterinary professionals in assessing the risk and determining the appropriate treatment.
Contact a veterinary professional or poison control immediately. In North America, the Pet Poison Helpline and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center are key resources that provide 24/7 guidance. These services can advise whether the situation warrants an immediate visit to the emergency clinic and help you monitor for symptoms. When calling, have your pet’s weight, the substance ingested, and the approximate time of ingestion readily available.
Seek emergency veterinary care immediately if your pet begins to exhibit concerning symptoms, such as repeated vomiting, lethargy, seizures, difficulty breathing, or other unusual behavior. Quick recognition and professional guidance can be life-saving, and knowing how to respond calmly ensures your pet receives the best possible care.
A Merry and Mindful Season
The holidays are most joyful when every member of the family can celebrate safely and in good health. Simple adjustments to decorations, careful storage of food, and mindful management of guests can prevent many of the most common holiday emergencies. Whenever you’re uncertain about a substance or situation, reach out to a trusted resource and maintain open communication with your veterinarian.
At Koala Health, we understand that even with the best precautions, digestive upsets can happen, especially during the festive season. Products like Purina FortiFlora, a veterinarian-recommended probiotic, can help support your pet’s gastrointestinal health and maintain comfort throughout the holidays. With a little foresight, preventive care, and supportive tools, you can ensure a season that is both merry and safe for everyone in your home.
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Disclaimer:
The information provided on the Koala Health blog is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not veterinarians, and the content shared should not be interpreted as medical advice for your pet. Always consult your veterinarian or a qualified animal healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your pet's health or medical conditions.