Winter Pet Safety: Health Tips & Seasonal Hazards to Avoid

 

Winter Health Tips for Your Furry Friends

Winter brings crisp mornings, twinkling lights and an alarming number of snacks appearing at Christmas time within paw’s reach. But while we humans merrily work our way through tins of chocolate and enough festive bakes to alarm any nutritionist, many traditional wintery treats are potentially dangerous for pets. Whether you share your home with a curious cat or a canine vacuum cleaner, staying alert to seasonal hazards is crucial.

Beware of Festive Food Hazards

Christmas is the season of indulgence… unfortunately, our pets didn’t get the memo that some of these delights are strictly ‘ho ho NO.’ Several classic festive foods are in fact toxic to dogs and cats:

·       Chocolate – delicious for us, a theobromine-laced disaster for them

·       Grapes, raisins, sultanas and currants – starring in mince pies, Christmas puddings, panettone and fruitcake. Even a single raisin could cause kidney trouble; Santa Paws definitely doesn’t approve

·       Onions, garlic, leeks and chives – staples of stuffing and gravy, but trouble for red blood cells

·       Alcohol – pets are far more sensitive to even small amounts… and they don’t need ‘festive spirits’ anyway

·       Xylitol – the sweetener in sugar-free baking and some peanut butters; has been known to cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar in dogs

Keep rubbish bags tightly shut (dogs consider them a thrilling expedition), avoid leaving food on low tables, and gently remind guests that “just a tiny treat” is not the Christmas gift your pet needs. If you want them to join the festivities, stick to pet-safe nibbles like our TurmerEase™ Pet Joint Supplement chicken slices or simple homemade goodies such as plain cooked turkey (no skin, bones or seasoning).

Manage Decorations and Visitors

Christmas trees look like giant enrichment toys from a pet’s point of view. Secure yours well, opt for shatter-proof baubles and keep lights and elf on the shelves out of chewing range. With guests coming and going, the festive season can be sensory overload, so provide a quiet ‘do not disturb’ zone where your pet can safely retreat.

Watch Out for Winter Toxins

Food isn’t the only hazard lurking at this time of year. Antifreeze is extremely poisonous and, unhelpfully, has a sweet taste pets may find appealing. Wipe-up spills promptly and store it safely away. Plants like poinsettia, mistletoe, holly and lilies may also cause stomach upsets or worse if chewed by a curious nibble-monster.

Keep Pets Warm and Comfortable

Short-haired and senior pets may need a cosy coat for winter walks (bonus points if they look adorable). Indoors, older animals will appreciate soft bedding away from draughts. Outdoor-loving cats should always have access to shelter - and before driving, give your car bonnet a quick tap to check no feline has decided your engine is the hottest real estate in town.

Maintain Routine and Enrichment

Winter means chilly and often wet weather, with shorter time outside for some. Keep feeding and exercise routines steady to avoid stress. Indoor cats, especially, benefit from puzzle feeders, climbing spots and interactive play to burn-off energy when daylight hours are in short supply.

And... Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark

Dark winter evenings can make dog walks riskier, so use reflective or flashing gear for your dog, wear bright clothing, carry a torch or headlamp, bring your phone, and use a light-up ball if needed. Stick to well-lit areas, walk against traffic on country roads with your dog on your right, only let them off-lead in safe, enclosed, familiar spaces and keep their recall strong so they return promptly if they wander. And if it’s horrid, why not play inside? A good game of tug, or a scavenger hunt bowl could be the answer to some well-needed mental stimulation. Do your best not to give too many treats, if their exercise is limited, however big the puppy dog eyes might be.

With smart food choices and a dash of festive common sense, your pets can enjoy a safe, cosy and wonderfully relaxed winter – no extra treats required.

Merry Christmas from the Golden Paste Company team!