The holidays are always a busy time. Between decorating, baking, and trying to get the house clean before guests arrive, things can get hectic fast. And while you’re juggling all your favorite holiday traditions, your pets are often feeling more curious than ever. Shiny ornaments, new smells, tasty leftovers—to them it’s an adventure waiting to happen!
However, the holidays can be a dangerous time for pets as well. Here are a few of the most common holiday hazards we see every year—and how to keep your furry family safe while you celebrate the season.
Eight Holiday Safety Tips for Pets
1. Limit Candles
Candles make everything cozy, but one wagging tail or curious paw can knock them over in an instant. Scented candles can also make your pets feel overstimulated, confused, or irritated. If you love the warm glow, switch to battery-operated candles or keep the real ones high and out of reach.
2. Choose Safe Decorations
When it comes to decorations, remember that if it sparkles, your pet will probably try to play with it. For example, cats love tinsel, but swallowing even a small strand can cause deadly intestinal blockages. Stick to safer decor like felt garlands and ornaments that won’t break or shatter, especially on the lower branches. And if your cat loves to climb, you may need to anchor your tree to the wall.
3. Avoid Certain Holiday Plants
They may look festive on the table, but many holiday plants are toxic to pets. Mistletoe and holly can upset stomachs and cause other, more serious symptoms, while lilies can be fatal to cats. If you want greenery without the risk, try pet-safe alternatives like roses, orchids, or faux arrangements. They’ll still look great—and your pets will thank you.
4. Watch out for Wires
String lights are always popular at this time of year, but those cords can make for some tempting chew toys. Use cord covers, tape them down, or hide them under rugs so pets can’t chew or trip on them. And be sure to unplug lights when you’re not home, in case your pet decides to play with them.
5. Beware of Kitchen Temptations
If there’s one thing pets love about the holidays, it’s the food. Unfortunately, the best-smelling dishes are often some of the most dangerous. It doesn’t matter how well-behaved your dog usually is; the smell of Thanksgiving leftovers can be irresistible.
Avoid sharing anything with onions, garlic, nutmeg, or heavy spices. Turkey bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries, and fatty foods like gravy or butter sides can upset your pet’s stomach. And don’t forget to keep the trash safely tucked away.
6. Plan for Guests and Open Doors
Holiday gatherings are fun for us, but the constant in-and-out can make it easy for pets to slip away. Pets that are not used to strangers might bolt and end up getting lost. If you’re hosting, set up a quiet room with their bed, toys, and water bowl where they can relax away from the chaos.
And before your guests arrive, double-check that your pet’s collar, tags, and microchip information are up to date—just in case they slip out while guests are arriving.
7. Be Careful on Slippery Sidewalks
North Texas winters may be mild, but icy patches can still happen. Watch for salted sidewalks or driveways—many de-icers are harsh on paws and can make pets sick if they lick them.
After walks, wipe your dog’s paws with a damp cloth to remove salt, ice, or any other irritants.
8. Travel Smart
If you’re driving to see family or flying out of town, plan ahead for your pet’s comfort. Cats and small dogs should always ride in a carrier, and larger dogs do best when they’re buckled in or crated.
If your pet gets car sick or nervous, call your vet a few days before the trip. There are safe options to help keep them calm and comfortable on the road.
A Safe, Happy Holiday Season for Everyone
A little extra awareness goes a long way this time of year. Whether it’s keeping candles out of reach or double-checking the trash can, those small steps can prevent big problems—and maybe even save you a trip to the vet.
At LazyPaw Animal Hospitals, we love seeing our patients happy and healthy all season long. If you have questions about something your pet got into that they shouldn’t have, give us a call. We’re here to help keep your celebrations worry-free.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (11/12/2025). Photo by Marcus Pinho on Pexels
