At IAMS, we know the holidays are even more joyful when everyone is safe and healthy. The below tips are a great check-back to make sure your pet is set up for a safe holiday season.

1. Make your tree tip-proof. (We’re lookin’ at you, cat people.)  
Curious cats may try to climb a Christmas tree, and active dogs can bump into it while playing. Protect your ornaments, keep your pet safe, and keep your holiday spirit upright and intact (!) with this simple trick: Secure your tree to the wall or ceiling with fishing line or wire to keep it from tipping over or being knocked down.

2. Choose safe decorations. 

Make sure any ornaments pets can reach aren’t a danger to them. Unbreakable decorations—like felt and cloth instead of glass—are a great festive option for folks with pets. Avoid ornaments made from salt dough or other food products. Skip tinsel or other dangling décor— it could be dangerous if swallowed.

3. Keep tree water free of additives.

Some families add aspirin, sugar or other additives to tree water to help keep it fresh. But pets may see the tree stand as a spare water bowl! It’s better to skip the additives altogether if you have pets in the house.

4. Be cautious with cords.

Electric shock is a serious danger for pets, as are mouth burns from chewing on cords. It’s best to unplug holiday lights when you’re not home to monitor your pet. Invest in cord protectors to hide the cords from your pet’s view. You can also use repellents to keep pets from chewing on cords, but talk to your vet first about the safest options.  

5. Consider a flame-free holiday.

The warm holiday glow of a candle can help us get in the holiday spirit, but they can also be a danger for curious or rambunctious pets. Consider flameless candles to get the same feeling without the risk. Always be mindful of pets when using your fireplace as well. Check out this article for more fire safety tips that all pet owners should know. 

6. Know which plants don’t play well with pets. 

Most people have heard that poinsettias are irritating for pets, but many more holiday plants pose an even bigger problem. Mistletoe, pine, cedar and holly are just a few significant hazards. Check out this ASPCA reference(open in new tab) to make sure any plants in your home are safe for your pets. 

7. Don’t let packaging make its way into playtime. 

Just like children, dogs and cats can be dazzled by wrapping paper! But gift wrapping, especially with strings or small parts, can be a hazard if eaten. Food packaging and plastic bags can be a serious suffocation danger. Even something simple like a foil wrapper can have dangerous sharp edges when swallowed. Keep an eye on all packaging and wrapped items, and dispose of them properly right after use.

8. Treat pets properly — with pet treats only! 

Want to give your pet some extra holiday love? It might be tempting to treat them to a piece of the holiday feast, but the safest way to treat your pet is with treats made specifically for them. Chocolate is toxic for dogs and cats. Human leftovers like fatty meats or bones are a hazard, plus foods like raisins, currants, grapes, onions, chives and garlic can be harmful for pets. 
Check out this BluePearl Pet Hospital post(open in new tab) for a list of human foods to avoid.

9. Take out the trash frequently. 

From turkey or chicken bones to sparkly giftwrap leftovers, the trash can be really tempting for pets during the holidays – and really dangerous. Tightly secure trash bags and place in a closed container outdoors or locked away from pets. If you’re hosting and entertaining around the holidays, take out the trash frequently to mitigate the risk. 

10. Give the gift of safe toys.

Look for pet toys made of safe, indestructible materials. Stay away from fringe and strings that can be chewed off. Steer clear of fancy wrappings for pets, too, which could be ingested while “opening” their gift.  This VCA post(open in new tab) offers additional holiday safety tips for pet parents. 

11. Bundle up! Stay warm on strolls.

Staying healthy during the holidays includes getting out for walks. Talk with your vet to understand if your dog is likely to be chilly, which can depend on breed, and get an appropriate coat. Booties help keep paws warm and avoid picking up salt and antifreeze, which are dangerous for pets. Dressing your pet appropriately for the cold is one of the best ways to show them love this season. 

12. Be prepared and know your vet’s holiday schedule. 

Veterinarians may have special hours over the holidays. Make sure you know how to reach the 24/7 emergency clinic in your area. This Pet Poison Helpline(open in new tab), recommended by VCA, is also a helpful resource to have on hand.


From all of us at IAMS, Happy holidays to you and your pets! We hope you have a fun, festive, and safe time with your family. 

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