#Middlebury #Christmas #Decorations
DEAR PAW’S CORNER: My aunt was admiring the wreath I made from natural materials, and during the conversation she mentioned that the berries might be poisonous to my cat, Darwin. If this is true, should I remove them from the wreath? – Katie V., Boise, Idaho
DEAR KATIE: Unfortunately, yes. If the wreath is accessible to your pets and an ingredient on it may be toxic, you will need to remove that ingredient and replace it – either with a nontoxic alternative or a silk or plastic equivalent.
Dogs and cats alike can be at risk from certain plants, berries and leaves that are common during the holiday season. Holly, mistletoe, lilies and amaryllis all are toxic to pets. Cats are especially known for being attracted to lilies, and they can climb to just about any point in a house, so it’s important to avoid having these around at all.
Artificial decorations also can pose a danger. Tinsel is the biggest no-no in a pet household; cats that ingest the sparkly strings can suffer intestinal blockage. Plus, it’s not great for the environment. Breakable ornaments, especially those thin glass bulbs that cats love to bat around, can shatter and cut their paws. And if a cat or dog ingests the broken material … well, I don’t want to think about that.
Candles can singe curious noses and wayward tails; use electric or battery-powered instead. Strings of lights pose a tangling and choking risk; place them up high, in a hard to access spot, and attach them securely using staples so a pet can’t pull them down. Coil extra electrical cord and fasten with a twist tie so pets don’t get tangled.
Keep your holidays safe for pets, and they’ll stay merry, just like you.
Send your tips, comments and questions to ask@pawscorner.com.
© 2020 King Features Synd., Inc.
You must be logged in to post a comment.