This time of year is one of bright lights, music and cheer. Be sure your pets have a safe holiday. There's always lots of food around. Be sure your pet only gets their normal diet or treats approved for pets. Many times we are tempted to share our holiday food with our pets. This can lead to digestive upsets, vomiting, diarrhea and even more serious pancreatitis. This inflammation of the pancreas can be fatal. After Thanksgiving and Christmas are the most common times for these ailments.
Be sure that all baking chocolate is kept up in a cabinet or a high counter. Chocolate is toxic and can cause many problems. These are treatable conditions, but left untreated can lead to abnormal heart rhythms and other problems that can be fatal.
Be careful with decorations. They are beautiful to look at, but cats and dogs are often tempted to eat them. This is especially true for puppies and kittens. If you have cats, it's best to avoid tinsel and be very cautious about ribbons. Cats are particularly attracted to long stringy objects. If they eat these objects, surgery is often needed to have them removed.
Be sure your pet's routine is kept as normal as possible. Holiday parties and lots of family visiting are great fun, but sometimes all the hustle and bustle is upsetting to our pets. They may need a little quiet time in another part of the house. Be sure they get plenty of normal exercise (helps us keep off the holiday pounds too!)
Hopefully these tips will help you and your pets have a safe and Happy Holiday!
Best Wishes!
Dr. Wicker