As the festive season approaches, the team at specialist pet insurer petGuard shares essential advice on safeguarding Christmas trees for the furry friends in our homes. James Whitten, Marketing Manager at petGuard, stresses the importance of ensuring the safety of pets during the holiday season.
For cat owners, the allure of climbing a Christmas tree can be irresistible for feline companions. However, certain types of Christmas trees, such as fir, pine, and spruce, produce oils that may cause mouth irritation and vomiting in cats. Moreover, the spiky needles pose a risk if swallowed. To pet-proof the tree, secure decorations and avoid using fragile baubles or tinsel that may attract playful curiosity.
To prevent accidents, it’s crucial to secure the base of the Christmas tree, especially if curious cats are prone to exploring. A sturdy, weighted base ensures the tree remains upright, safeguarding both pets and household items.
Dog-Friendly Precautions
For dog owners, preparing for the festivities involves dog-proofing the Christmas tree. If it’s the dog’s first Christmas, acclimatise them by initially setting up an undecorated tree, gradually introducing ornaments once the dog is comfortable sharing space with it.
To prevent mishaps caused by exuberant wagging tails, larger dogs’ owners can secure the tree using a fishing line attached to the wall or ceiling. Additionally, keeping edible treats off the tree, especially chocolate, is vital to ensure the dog’s safety.
While the twinkling lights add charm, be mindful of cords that could entangle curious pets. Arrange lights away from lower branches to prevent access for exploring pups and maintain tidy, out-of-reach cords.
James Whitten concludes, ““Having a Christmas tree in the house is magical and by taking extra caution, you can make sure both you and your pet can enjoy Christmas”.
