Keep the season bright and your pets safe
The holidays bring warmth, togetherness and twinkling lights. For pets, those same decorations can bring risks. Every year veterinarians treat animals for preventable injuries and illnesses caused by seasonal décor.
At American Humane Society, we believe celebrations should be joyful for every member of the family, including those with fur, feathers or fins. By choosing pet-safe decorations and understanding common hazards, you can make your home a safe and happy place for all.
Keep Holiday Trees Safe for Pets
Holiday trees are beautiful but can be hazardous. Cats love to climb, and curious pups and kitties may chew on pine needles or drink tree water.
- Secure your tree so it can’t tip over.
- If securing your tree is a challenge, you can gently redirect your pet’s curiosity by using a tunnel-style tree skirt. These enclosed play tubes wrap around the base of your tree, blocking access while giving your pet a safe, engaging space to explore.
- Avoid additives in tree water since they can be toxic.
- Skip tinsel and small ornaments that can cause choking or intestinal blockages.
- Choose shatterproof ornaments and place them higher up to keep them out of reach.
If you use an artificial tree, make sure materials are labeled non-toxic and flame-resistant.
Light the Season Safely
String lights add sparkle but can tempt pets to chew.
- Keep cords tucked away or use protective covers
- Avoid dangling cords that attract playful paws
- Unplug lights when you leave home or go to bed
- Use battery-operated candles instead of open flames
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) reports that electrical burns and fires are among the most common holiday emergencies for pets.
Holiday Plants and Scents to Avoid for Pets
Some traditional plants and fragrances can make pets sick. Avoid these holiday staples:
- Poinsettias
- Mistletoe
- Holly plants
- Lilies
- Pine and cedar oils in diffusers
Choose pet-safe alternatives like artificial wreaths, rosemary or catnip bouquets. Keep candles and potpourri out of reach.
Build a Pet-safe Space
The holidays can be loud and stressful for animals. Create a quiet spot where they can rest away from guests and noise.
- Use soft blankets and familiar toys
- Keep food scraps and wrapping materials out of reach
- Make sure all doors and gates are secure to prevent escapes
A calm pet is a happy pet, and a safe home is the best gift you can give.
FAQs
Small ornaments (choking or blockage), tinsel, breakable ornaments, open-flame candles and toxic plants like poinsettias, mistletoe and holly can all harm pets. Choose sturdy, pet-safe décor to keep your home festive and safe.
Secure your tree so it can’t tip, use shatterproof ornaments placed higher up and avoid additives in tree water that could be toxic to pets.
Unplug the lights right away and contact your veterinarian. Electrical burns and shocks can cause serious injury and need professional care.
Skip pine or cedar oils and stick to pet-safe alternatives like rosemary or artificial wreaths to fill your home with seasonal cheer without risk.
Create a quiet, cozy space with familiar blankets and toys so your pet has a peaceful retreat from guests and noise.
Celebrate the season of compassion
The holidays remind us that love and care make every home brighter. By decorating with awareness, you protect the animals who fill our lives with joy. Together we can make this season safe, meaningful and truly humane for every member of the family.
