Christmas trees, Holly and Ivy, kissing under the mistletoe, bright red Poinsettias: holiday greens brighten up December.

Unfortunately some of these are risks to our pets.  Houses can be decorated with some simple precautions.  Poinsettia leaves contain sap, which is very irritating to the mouth and throat and can cause drooling and vomiting.  Holly and mistletoe are both poisonous.  Christmas trees are relatively low risk though the sap can irritate skin and get stuck in fur.  

Then there are the ornaments on the tree.  Tinsel and ribbon are very attractive to cats and if consumed can cause intestinal damage.  Ornaments on the bottom of the tree should be safe and non-breakable.  Electric cords should be protected from pets that chew everything—especially puppies!

Make sure trees are secured and cannot be easily knocked over.  Supervise your pet around Christmas trees and keep the other greens out of reach.  

The Staff and Veterinarians of State Street Animal Hospital, PC wish you a happy, healthy holiday season.