Happy Holidays! This can be a fun time of year for our feline pals! However, Fluffy does have a way of getting into mischief. The holidays do present some dangers for pet owners to be aware of. Read on as a local Aurora, CO vet offers some tips on keeping your kitty happy, healthy, and safe over the holidays.
Decorations
Keep your feline buddy’s health and safety in mind as you decorate. Tinsel, electric lights, ribbons, and garlands are all serious choking hazards to frisky felines. Fragile ornaments and ornament hooks are also dangerous to kitties. You’ll also need to be careful with plants. Many seasonal favorites, such as opoinsettias, mistletoe, yew, holly, and ivy, are toxic to pets. Last but not least, make sure to keep candles, potpourri burners, and the like out of paws’ reach.
Stress
Cats are very emotional. Many kitties get frightened or anxious when there is a lot of noise or commotion. If Fluffy gets nervous around guests, put her in a quiet back room when you host events. Offer her food, bedding, toys, treats, and a litterbox, and let her sleep through the festivities.
Food
Speaking of food, your kitty will definitely appreciate a special snack. You can give your furball some plain, cooked meat, fish, or chicken. Just be sure to remove the skin, bones, and fat. Fluffy may also appreciate a can of plain chicken, tuna, or crabmeat in water. Never give your cat anything that contains garlic, onions, scallions, or chives; grapes, currants, or raisins; dairy products; meat on the bone; or raw meat, dough, or yeast.
Weather
Cats are always safer staying inside, where they aren’t exposed to dangers posed by cars, predators, and other hazards. This goes double at this time of year, when snow, cold, and ice present additional risks. Keep Fluffy safe, healthy, and purring indoors!
Loneliness
Kitties are creatures of habit, and can get anxious when their usual routines are disturbed. Many people travel at this time of year. Others may just be gone more than usual, attending various events. Pay lots of attention to Fluffy, and keep that little motor going. Those cold winter nights are purrfect for relaxing with a purring cat in your lap!
All of us here at Aspen Commons Animal Hospital, your Aurora, CO animal hospital, want to wish you a wonderful holiday season. Call us anytime!
