Christmas is a busy time full of traditions, friends, and celebration. However, amongst all the excitement, it’s important to remember how Christmas can affect our pets. There are lots of hidden hazards that are easy to overlook. From toxic treats dropped on the floor to the stress of an overcrowded house. It’s crucial for pet owners to be aware of the risks of joyful time of year. So here are 4 Ways to Have a Safe and Pet-Friendly Christmas.

1. Don’t Forget Your Pet Insurance

Having pet insurance at Christmas is essential. The festive season brings unique risks for pets, like accidental injuries, illnesses from eating harmful foods, or even unexpected emergencies.

In 2023, 4.4 bn pet insurance policies were taken out and the average claim paid out was £668 (Association of British Insurers). Could you afford to pay this out yourself in one go? If not the answer is Pet Insurance.

With Perfect Pet’s affordable pet insurance options, you can ensure your furry friend gets veterinary treatment without worrying about costly vet bills. From accident-only coverage to lifetime plans, Perfect Pet’s policies provide peace of mind during a hectic season. Covering your pet’s health properly means a stress-free Christmas for the whole family. Get a quote today!

2. Keep a Routine to Reduce Stress for Your Pet

Pets are creatures of routine, and the guests, noises and unfamiliar smells can create feelings of anxiety and insecurity in your pets.

To help reduce stress for your pets over the festive season, consider trying the following:

• Stick to your normal walking and feeding times to provide comfort for your pets by following their normal habits.
• Ensure you’ve given your dog a walk prior to any guests arriving, this can help reduce pent up energy and excitement when guests arrive.
• Provide a safe space for pets to escape to in a quieter part of the house. Make sure they have their bed, water, and food bowls. This allows your pet to retreat from unfamiliar people or excessive noise.
• Help your visitors – especially children – understand that this ‘safe area’ is off limits to humans. Your guests may be keen to make friends with your pets but it’s much better for them to take the lead in their own time.

3. Be Aware of Decorations

When decorating for Christmas, it’s important to keep your pets’ safety in mind. Gradually putting up decorations can help your pet get used to the festive changes without feeling stressed.

Remember, sparkly and dangling decorations can be quite tempting—and dangerous—for curious pets. Tinsel and small ornaments might look like fun toys but can be choking hazards or cause serious issues if swallowed. These situations can be fatal, it’s important to contact a vet immediately if you believe your pet has swallowed something, even if your pet seems fine. Pet insurance can help you deal with this added financial stress, which could be devastating around the holidays.

Those twinkling lights? Their cords can be irresistible to chew on, which could lead to burns or electric shocks. Try to keep them out of reach, tucked under rugs or taped down. Seasonal  plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly are pretty, but they are toxic to pets.

Choose pet-friendly decorations, like paper chains and plastic baubles that won’t shatter if knocked over. Secure your Christmas tree so it doesn’t topple over and keep breakable or dangerous items out of reach. Always keep an eye on your pets around the decorations and be mindful of their behaviour to avoid any mishaps.

4. Plan Your Festive Travelling

If you’re travelling over the festive period to meet friends and family, make sure you pack your pets favourite toys and beds with you. The smell of home can be very calming and comforting for them.

 Try to stick to your normal schedules where possible including feeding times and walks. This can help your pet to feel more at ease in an unfamiliar place.

If your pet is known to be anxious, or is a known nervous traveller then speak to your vet as early as possible to explore help that is available for them. There are calming supplements that can be beneficial to your pet at this time of year, but it’s best to start them well ahead of the event.

5. Watch Out for Toxic Food and drinks

Some of the food and drinks you may be enjoying at Christmas can be dangerous to your dog and cat. Here is a list of basic seasonal treats that you may not know are toxic for your pet:

• Chocolate
• Raisins
• Sultanas
• Currants
• Onions
• Garlic
• Leeks
• Chives
• Cooked meat bones
• Meat fat

For more information on what foods to avoid this Christmas with your pet, check out our guide.

Christmas is a fun time for the whole family, but taking a few extra steps means you can all have a safe and pet-friendly Christmas

Pet insurance can be a lifesaver when it comes to unexpected accidents and emergencies. Whether it’s a sudden illness, an accidental ingestion of something harmful, or an unexpected injury, having pet insurance ensures that you can get your pet the care they need without the added financial stress. It covers a range of situations, from emergency vet visits to treatments for illnesses, giving you peace of mind during the festive season. Investing in a good pet insurance policy means you can focus on enjoying the holidays, knowing that your furry family member is protected.

Get a Pet insurance quote today!