HOW DO I PET-PROOF THE HOUSE FOR THE HOLIDAYS?

By Dr. Christa Young, DVM - Bellalago Veterinary Hospital

The Holidays are upon us and I am already scrambling to gather everything to prevent a holiday decoration pet-tastrophe.  Our cat is an accomplished Christmas Tree climber and ornament mangler with a knack for opening gifts well before December 25th morning.

What can be done to keep our pets and holiday cheer safe this year?  Here are a few products and tips to help!

Pet-Proofing Products

Things for the tree, decorations, counters and rooms

• PawzAway Indoor Pet Barrier
• PawzAway Threshold Pet Barrier
• Ssscat Spray Deterrent
• ScatMat Pet Proofing mats
• PawzAway Pet Proofing mats
• Indoor Radio Fence
• Put objects out of reach when possible

Things for cords, wires and other chewable delights

• CritterCord cord protectors
• Bitter Mist Spray and other chew deterrent sprays
• Have appropriate chew toys available and rotate every 2 weeks
• Put objects out of reach when possible

What about holiday hustle and bustle stress?

Natural stress relievers - increase happy, relaxing signals in the brain

• Composure Pro soft chews or drops
• Adaptil collars, spray, and diffusers
• Feliway wipes, spray, and diffusers
• Solliquin
• Calm-a-Mile essential oil blend
• Have a quiet and safe “happy space” in the home away from the holiday action

Medications

Your veterinarian can discuss tranquilizer and anti-anxiety medication options right for your pet and the situation if needed.

Other Tips for Safe and Fun Holidays

• Know the Pet Poison Helpline contact (a fee may apply) and check out their holiday dangers articles.
• Give Fluffy and Fido some special treats and toys to keep them occupied during the holidays - check with your veterinary team for ideas. Busy Buddy toys, stuff-able Kong toys, Twist’n’Treat Cat Teaser, HEXBUG cat mouse toy are all favorites along with cardboard boxes and paper bags for the cats.
• Be aware that foods, sweets, decorations, candles, cords, trees, plants, house guests, and human medications can all be toxic or dangerous to your pets.
• Make sure both you and your pets have some time to unwind and get away from the stress!

Resources:

• https://store.petsafe.net/training-behavior/pet-proofing
• http://www.crittercord.com/
• http://www.solliquin.com/
• https://www.adaptil.com/us/
• https://www.feliway.com/us
• http://nebula.wsimg.com/3758e7f65c36b24b8887157b244a5675?AccessKeyId=2B4B09757FB41BF6112A&disposition=0&alloworigin=1
• https://vimeo.com/180942023
• http://www.myhappypets.com/
• https://www.petsafe.net/learn/holiday-pet-proofing-tips
• https://www.petsafe.net/learn/pet-proof-your-holidays-avoid-common-yuletide-hazards
• http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/uncategorized/holiday-pet-safety/
• https://www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pages/thanksgiving-pet-safety.aspx?utm_source=home-rotator&utm_medium=171113&utm_campaign=observ&utm_term=rotator1&utm_content=thanksgiving
• https://www.avma.org/public/PetCare/Pages/holidays.aspx