The holiday season brings decorating, cooking, hosting, traveling, and plenty of changes to your daily routine. While these moments can feel exciting, they can also introduce new risks for pets at home. At Portland Vet, our primary care team wants to help you enjoy a safe, calm, and healthy holiday season with your pets.
Many holiday concerns can be prevented with simple planning. The tips below are designed for pet owners who want to keep their pets comfortable and healthy throughout the winter and holiday season.
1. Plan Ahead for Holiday Schedules
Holiday weeks fill up quickly with gatherings, travel, and visitors. Pets thrive on predictable routines, so changes can affect everything from bathroom habits to stress levels.
Ways to keep routines steady:
- Keep feeding and exercise times as consistent as possible
- Provide a quiet room where pets can relax if you are hosting
- Allow anxious pets to retreat to a familiar space when things get loud or busy
If your pet struggles with stress or routine changes, a primary care visit can help you explore supportive options.
Book a primary care appointment online
2. Food Safety Starts in the Kitchen
Many holiday foods smell appealing to pets but can cause digestive upset or more serious medical concerns.
Keep these out of reach:
- Turkey skin, drippings, and fatty foods
- Bones (cooked bones can splinter)
- Chocolate
- Grapes and raisins
- Sugar-free baked goods with xylitol
- Unbaked dough
Safer choices include:
- Plain vegetables like green beans or carrots
- Small amounts of cooked, unseasoned turkey breast
- Plain pumpkin
If your pet frequently experiences digestive upset, it may be a good time for a wellness visit.
Schedule a visit with Portland Vet
3. Decorate with Pet Safety in Mind
Many decorations are irresistible to curious pets, especially cats and young dogs.
Simple ways to prevent accidents:
- Keep candles and essential oils away from pets.
- Hang breakable ornaments higher on the tree.
- Avoid tinsel, ribbon, and string if you have a cat.
- Use cord covers or secure cables along walls.
- For pets known to chew, consider gating off decorated spaces.
4. Winter Weather Care for Maine Pets
Maine winters bring cold temperatures, ice, and snow, all of which can affect your pet’s comfort and mobility.
Keep pets comfortable by:
- Limiting time outside during frigid temperatures
- Wiping paws after walking on treated sidewalks
- Using pet-safe ice melt when possible
- Keeping older pets warm with cozy bedding and gentle exercise
If you notice stiffness, limping, or new mobility changes, an exam may help identify early arthritis or orthopedic issues.
5. Keep Holiday Plants Out of Reach
Several seasonal plants can cause mild to moderate digestive upset.
Use caution with:
- Holly
- Mistletoe
- Lillies
- Poinsettias
Even non-toxic plants can cause vomiting or diarrhea if chewed. Placement matters just as much as plant type.
6. Prepare for Travel and Boarding Early
If you plan to travel this season, preparation can make your pet’s experience calmer and safer.
Before traveling:
- Make sure vaccines are up to date
- Check medication supply
- Confirm microchip information
- Pack familiar items like bedding or toys
If your pet needs updated vaccines or a health certificate, it helps to schedule early to avoid holiday-season appointment surges.
7. Know What’s Normal for Your Pet
During busy weeks, it can be harder to notice subtle health changes. A quick daily check-in can help you spot early signs of illness.
Monitor for:
- Normal appetite
- Expected water intake
- Regular bathroom habits
- Comfortable movement
- Usual behavior and energy
Any sudden change in behavior, appetite, mobility, or bathroom habits is worth discussing with your primary care veterinarian.
A Safe and Comfortable Holiday Season
With a little preparation and awareness, the holidays can be safe, calm, and enjoyable for both you and your pets. The primary care team at Portland Vet is here to support you with wellness care, routine visits, and guidance to help your pets stay healthy all winter long.