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Holiday Hazards

Ornamental lights, festive plants, tinsel, and packaging string are holiday associated items that can be hidden pet hazards. Dogs, cats, ferrets, and rabbits are curious animals who love to investigate their environments. They are attracted to the “newness” of the holiday ornaments and the twinkle of the merry lights.

Both light cords and extension cords should be strategically placed out of pet reach. Animals have been known to chew through cords. Electric shocks can affect the breathing and heartbeat of the animal. The surviving animal may act depressed and inappetent. Upon close examination owners may find the inside of the mouth and lips painfully ulcerated with black margins. These pets need medical attention such as antibiotics.

Veterinarians also help by determining how to aid the animal to eat. Predictably dogs, cats, and ferrets come to the clinic during the holidays because they are either vomiting or are suffering with diarrhea. With all the baking of cookies, candies, and holiday dinners, many dogs acquire samples of these tasty morsels. The digestive system can become overwhelmed leading to vomiting and diarrhea. More serious cases may result in pancreatitis. Chocolate toxicity can lead to seizures and even death. Be kind to your pet. Give them an animal treat and not a taste of your treat.

Holidays are associated with beautiful festive plants. Mistletoe and Poinsettias are commonly brought home as decoration during this time of the year. Ingestion of mistletoe may cause animals to vomit. It may also lead to copious diarrhea. If an owner finds their pet in this state of affairs and is not sure of the cause, the animal may act confused or may have dilated pupils.

An animals reaction to a Poinsettia is very similar. The Poinsettia produces a milky sap that is irritating to the animals eyes and skin. The eyes and skin can become red and inflamed. The eyes may also tear. If the plant is ingested, the mouth, stomach, and intestinal tract also can become irritated. The animal may feel nausea.

Vomiting and diarrhea may be the outcome. The best approach to ensure the animals safety is to place these beautiful plants far out of reach. If your pet should show signs of intoxication, seek veterinary advise as soon as possible.

Finally, a word of caution, cats and ferrets love to play with tinsel and packaging string. Unfortunately, it is very common for them to accidentally swallow these items. Few animals pass these substances without a problem. Both tinsel and string “bind up” the intestines leading to a life threatening situation that may only be corrected with surgery. Omitting tinsel and string from the decor protects these mischievously, curious creatures.

May your Holiday season be happy and safe.

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