SB PETS
BY HAILEY LAWSON
rious cat. A snow globe can easily be knocked off a shelf and broken. Broken glass on the floor can be a major hazard for you and your pet.
KEEP YOUR KITTY
OFF THE NAUGHTY LIST
W
hile families and friends get together this year to celebrate Christmas and indulge in the wonderful festive season, it is important that we remember to be mindful of our feline family members. Unfortunately, there are many dangers that your cat can encounter this holiday season. Some of these dangers are obvious, but some are not so obvious. Here is a list of some things to be aware of and the best way to keep your cat off Santa's Naughty List this year. Sweets Don’t leave chocolate or other candies out where your pet can get to it. Even if it’s wrapped, never leave it under the Christmas tree, and always remember to place candy dishes out of their reach. The pancreas of dogs and cats are very sensitive to fatty and sugary foods, which can cause the organ to become inflamed. Christmas Tree To prevent mischievous cats from using your Christmas tree as a new scratching post, try making a cat repellent to spray on your tree. Ř Ř Ř Ř Ř
Fill a 1-quart spray bottle with water. Add a teaspoon of eucalyptus/peppermint oil to water. Mix 1 tablespoon of lemon/orange oil into the bottle. Close the bottle and shake the mixture thoroughly. Spray the repellent onto the entire Christmas tree.
Also, it’s a good idea to secure your Christmas tree to a wall or doorway with some fishing line to help keep it from falling over if your cat gets the urge to climb it. Candles and Snow Globes Never leave lit candles unattended. You don’t want your cat’s curiosity setting your house on fire. Your furry friend might have nine lives, but you definitely don’t. It’s always best to put your pet in a safe and secure place if you have candles lit. Snow globes can also be alluring to a cu-
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DECEMBER 2021
| SBMAG.NET
Christmas Tree Lights Everyone is mesmerized by Christmas lights—including your furry friend. Christmas lights present multiple dangers for your pet. They can get tangled up in them or get an electric shock. Unfortunately, your cat’s attraction to the pretty lights may lead to chewing on the wires, which could result in being electrocuted. Hide and secure electrical cords for lights. A pet-proof rubber cord protector is a good way to prevent injury.
Decorations, Tinsel, & Holiday Plants Be careful of dangling decorations; these can be a real choking or injury risk. Cats are attracted to shiny things that move, so be mindful of putting sparkly decorations within your kitty’s reach. You don’t want them eating ornaments or tinsel. Also, remember that mistletoe, holly berries, and poinsettias are toxic to pets. Keep these plants out of reach. Prepare a Safe Space Create a safe place where your kitty could escape and relax from all of the holiday festivities. This is especially true when hosting parties or overnight guests that are unfamiliar to your pet. So find a room or a quiet part of your house that can serve as your cat's hideout during the holidays, preferably in a location close to the litter box. Make them comfortable by providing them with a bed and their favorite toys, and move the food and water dishes there, too. Wishing you all a happy and pet-safe holiday season! The winter holidays are fun and exciting, but parties, decorations, and holiday foods can be hazardous for your pet. So as you prepare your holiday feast and deck the halls, keep this list in mind to ensure you and your furry feline have a safe and happy holiday.
