The holidays are made for cozy lights, sparkling trees, and that perfect moment when your pet looks so content you reach for your phone. For many of us, pets are part of the celebration in the most literal sense. They are under the tree, beside the fireplace, and usually right in the middle of whatever we are trying to decorate. The season is joyful, but it also comes with a few easy to miss risks. A little planning keeps the magic intact and helps you avoid an unnecessary trip to the vet.If you have ever typed “how to decorate for Christmas with cats” into a search bar, you are not alone. Cats are drawn to anything shiny, dangling, or new, and holiday décor checks every box. Dogs can be just as determined, especially when something smells interesting or looks chewable. The safest approach is to make a few swaps before the decorating really begins.Start with ornaments. Glass looks beautiful, but it breaks easily, and shattered pieces can injure paws or mouths. Shatterproof ornaments made from durable plastic, wood, or fabric give you the same festive look with less risk. You can also keep fragile ornaments higher up on the tree and reserve lower branches for sturdy decorations.Tinsel and ribbon are where things get tricky. They are practically designed to tempt curious pets, especially cats. The problem is that stringy decorations can be swallowed, and that can lead to choking or intestinal blockage. If you love the sparkle, choose wider garlands that are harder to chew or swallow, or use metallic picks and tree-safe accents that stay firmly in place.Treats and edible decorations deserve the same caution. Many holiday favorites are unsafe for pets, including chocolate and products sweetened with xylitol. Even when something seems harmless, sugary candies can upset stomachs and create a habit of scavenging around the tree and coffee table. It is safer to keep food ornaments off the tree entirely and store holiday treats in a closed container, preferably behind a cabinet door that a determined pet cannot nose open.If your cat treats the tree like a climbing gym, gentle deterrents can help. Many cats dislike citrus and peppermint scents. Used carefully and kept away from direct contact with your pet, these scents can make the area less appealing. The more reliable strategy is physical stability. A secure tree stand, plus anchoring the tree to a wall or sturdy point, can prevent tipping if your pet decides to launch an investigation at 2 a.m.It also helps to give pets an attractive alternative. If the tree is the most interesting thing in the room, they will keep returning to it. A cozy bed set a safe distance from heat sources, a soft blanket near where the family gathers, and a few engaging toys can redirect attention without making your pet feel excluded from the festivities.Candles are another holiday classic that can turn into a problem fast. Open flames and pets are a risky pairing, whether it is a curious paw, a sudden jump, or a wagging tail. Flameless candles and soft string lights give you the same warm glow and look just as festive in photos.Plants are worth a quick check too. Poinsettias are common this time of year, and while they are not typically life-threatening, they can still cause irritation or stomach upset if chewed. Other seasonal greens, including holly and mistletoe, can be more dangerous. The simplest solution is placement. Keep holiday plants well out of reach, or choose realistic faux versions if you want the look with fewer worries.Now for the fun part, gifts. The best pet gifts are the ones that improve daily life, not just the ones that look cute in a shopping cart. Many pets love warming pads or heated blankets in winter, especially if their favorite sunny window disappears once the snow arrives. Automatic feeders can also be a genuine quality of life upgrade, particularly for early-morning pets who believe breakfast is a non-negotiable appointment. And yes, the trendy toys and custom pet portraits can be adorable, but the most appreciated “gift” might be something practical that makes home life easier, like a tool that actually lifts fur off floors and rugs.And if you are shopping on a tight budget, do not overthink it. Most pets have strong opinions, and many of them prefer a cardboard box or a sheet of wrapping paper over whatever you spent money on. They are efficient like that.

Deck the Halls, Not the Vet Bill: Keeping Your Pets Safe

Holiday pet safety guide: pet-friendly decor, safer treats, plants and gift ideas to keep your home and furry family out of trouble.

About RIFO

Business

Investors

News

Contact Us

Contact Us