The holiday season is a festive time of year for you and your family. If you aren’t careful, though, the festivities can lead to disaster for your furry friend. Holiday feasts, house guests, and even decorations can be potential dangers to your pet, and in the chaos of the season, accidents are all too common. Being aware of the potential dangers is the best way to protect your pet and avoid an unplanned trip to a vet in OKC this holiday season. Keep reading to discover some of the most common holiday hazards for dogs and cats. 

Ornaments and Tinsel

Ornaments and tinsel may not be toxic, but they can still be dangerous - especially to cats. These shiny, dangly decorations prove too hard to resist for many pets. Tinsel, when ingested, can cause serious internal problems. And those beautiful ornaments may shatter into a million sharp pieces and cause cuts if knocked off the tree. 

Lights and Candles

Twinkling lights and candles can be just as dangerous to your pet as ornaments and tinsel. If you have a pet who likes to chew, electrical cords can be deadly. And if you plan on displaying candles this holiday season, make sure they’re in hard-to-reach spots where your pet can’t access them. Keep in mind that the ingredients found in some scented candles may be harmful for your pet to breathe, too. 

Holiday Foods

Some of your favorite holiday foods may be toxic to your pet. Fat trimmings and bones are not suitable snacks. You should also avoid sharing chocolate, nuts, raisins, grapes, and even foods containing onions with your furry friend. It’s natural to want to share some of your holiday feast with your pet, but if you want to avoid a visit to your OKC vet, it’s best to stick to giving your pet their normal food and treats. 

When to Take Your Pet to a Vet in OKC

If your pet has eaten something they shouldn’t have or suffered an injury, bring them to see their OKC vet right away. At Stoneridge Animal Hospital, we’re here to help if your furry friend needs to see a vet in OKC this holiday season. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.