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HOLIDAY HAZARDS
The holidays are here once more and such festivities may bring certain hazards to our pets who like to join the celebrations. The following are potential problem situations to watch for in your household during the holiday season:
1) Food wrappers such as the plastic wrap and strings that come off the turkey, etc., are very enticing to pets because they smell and taste of the product from which they came. Dogs and cats have been known to eat these materials and develop inflammation or obstruction of the intestinal tract. Remember, it is important to adequately dispose of all food wrappers in a place inaccessible to pets.
2) Cats love glittery play toys and nothing is more attractive to them than the tinsel on the tree, gift ribbons, and sparkly Christmas decorations. While playing with and chewing on these items, the cat may accidentally ingest them. Tinsel is particularly dangerous if swallowed. Problems can be avoided by keeping Christmas decorations out of reach, keeping the cat away from these areas, or careful supervision of the cat that shows interest in these “toys” that he feels are especially put out for his use.
3) All of the wonderful aromas associated with holiday cooking and the availability of food during social gatherings are as overwhelming and appealing to pets as well as ourselves. Like us, pets can and often do over-indulge. Items to definitely avoid feeding pets are bones of any size, fatty or greasy foods such as turkey skins or meat trimmings, and sweets such as candy and cookies. These can cause serious gastrointestinal problems requiring medical attention. Treats may be given, but they should be goodies made for dogs and cats, or other foods that your veterinarian can suggest.
4) Pets should be kept out of smoke-filled rooms or party areas particularly if the animal is older or has a history of heart or lung problems. Animals, like humans, are susceptible to the harmful effects of cigarette smoke.
5) The holidays are also an emotional time, filled with unusual activity and changes in the household appearance and smell. Stress can be avoided by allowing pets an area of their own (an isolated bedroom, for instance) where they can retreat from overwhelming holiday activities.
6) During cold weather, auto owners may be changing their antifreeze. Even a small drip of antifreeze can be very tempting to dogs and cats, with deadly effects. Clean up any antifreeze drips completely and keep pets away from these areas.
As with people, undue stress and illness can be avoided at the holiday time of year by adhering to normal routine as closely as possible and using moderation where diet is concerned. We hope you and your pets have a happy and safe holiday season.
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