Friday December 19, 2025 | VICTORIA, BC
by Mary P Brooke | Island Social Trends
We would love to hear your holiday-season pet stories.
Pet safety during the holiday season is top of mind for the BC Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (BC SPCA).
Furry companions can’t always tell the difference between holiday items and hazards.
Cats and dogs may consume things that aren’t mean to be eaten, or bump into decorative things that have been set up in places around people’s homes.
BC SPCA offers this reminder about common hazards as to pet safety at home in the Christmas season:
- Tinsel, ribbons, and string are commonly featured in holiday decorations and share similarities with some pet toys. If ingested, they can become lodged and may cause blockages that require emergency surgery.
- String lights and power cords can be tempting for some critters to chew on; make sure cords are kept out of reach and unplugged when not in use.
- Plants and floral arrangements, while beautiful, can be poisonous or even lethal to pets. Mistletoe, holly, lilies, and amaryllis are often seen around the holidays, but can cause extreme medical distress if chewed or eaten (especially by cats). Avoid having these in your home or keep them well out of reach to avoid any accidental ingestion.
- Food is the focal point of many festivities, but certain items are hazardous for animals. Chocolate, poultry bones, yeast dough, onions, raisins, and alcohol are just some examples of food that is toxic for dogs or cats. Don’t leave food out where pets can access it; promptly remove trash.
- Christmas trees seem irresistible to many pets, especially curious cats. It’s important that your Christmas tree is kept secure, so it doesn’t fall onto anyone if a pet decides to explore in it. If you have a live tree, don;t add chemical treatment to the water if pets might have access to drink from the tree base.
- Guests bring the holiday cheer for people, but can be overwhelming for pets. Ensure that furry friends have a safe rtreat spot if they need space, and keep them secure around entry ways to avoid any accidental door dashing. Stay informed on animal body language and remind your guests — including children — to respect your pet’s boundaries.
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NEWS SECTIONS: CHRISTMAS SEASON