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How to keep pets safe and happy at Christmas

Christmas is an exciting time, but it can be overwhelming for pets. The extra noise, new people and changes to routine can create anxiety for our furry friends.

This guide offers tips on keeping pets safe and happy at Christmas, and what to do if they become ill or injured during the festive season.

Couple and dog in christmas jumpers

Tips for a calm and comfortable pet

For many, the festive season wouldn’t be complete without their pets by their side. Whether you’ve got a new furry friend into your home or are enjoying the festivities with your long-time companion, it’s essential to keep your pets safe and comfortable this Christmas. Because although it's the most wonderful time of the year, the excitement, unfamiliar visitors, and changes in routine can sometimes be stressful for pets.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about keeping your pet calm and happy during Christmas. We’ll share guidance on getting a pet for Christmas, plus tips on what to do if your pet becomes ill or injured over the holidays. Lastly, we’ll explain why having pet insurance is crucial to protect your furry friend during this busy time.

In this article

Getting a new pet at Christmas 

While gifting a pet at Christmas might make a great surprise for a loved one, it’s important to remember that pets need calm, stable environments to adjust. The festive season, with its hustle and bustle, can sometimes make that difficult. 

Here are some reasons why: 

  • Christmas is busy. Parties, loud noises, new people, travel and unfamiliar surroundings can overwhelm a new pet. They’ll need time, attention and a quiet space to help them settle in 

  • There’s lots of holiday hazards. Whether it’s an inquisitive pup or a curious kitten, new pets could be drawn to festive decorations, lights, toxic foods and poisonous plants. And it could be tricky to pet-proof your home during the festivities 

  • Pets are a long-term commitment. Before taking the plunge, it’s important to think about whether you and your family are ready for the commitment that comes with a new pet, through the festive season and far beyond

Pet charities like the PDSA suggest waiting until after Christmas to bring a new pet into your home. This allows more time to properly prepare your household and ensure your new furry friend is welcomed into a calm, stable environment. 

Adopt, don’t shop 

Rescue centres are filled with animals of all ages, from playful puppies and kittens to older pets looking for a second chance. By adopting or rehoming a pet, you can save an animal in need and enjoy a rewarding experience with your family. 

Here’s a quick checklist: 

  • Research reputable rescue centres and animal shelters that you’d like to visit 

  • Talk to your family, especially if you have children, about pet care and responsibilities

  • Learn about the adoption process, as each shelter has its own rules, and ask any questions you might have. Many places will offer guidance and resources to help

  • Make sure you’re prepared for your new pet by stocking up on essentials like food, toys, and bedding, and by pet-proofing your home

  • Consider taking out pet insurance to protect your new companion. Unexpected vet bills can be pricey, and pet insurance can help cover the costs of accidents, illness or routine check-ups. Looks into different types of cover to find one that fits your needs and budget 

Keeping your pet calm at Christmas 

Don’t worry if you have a new pet at Christmas or if your existing pet is feeling a bit overwhelmed by the festivities. With a few simple steps, you can make sure your loyal sidekick feels safe and calm. 

For both new and long-time pets, the noise, guests and changes to routine can cause some stress. Common signs include hiding, excessive grooming or pacing, and changes in appetite or behaviour. But by being prepared, you can help your pet settle and keep them calm during Christmas: 

  1. Create a safe space 

Christmas can be chaotic, so make sure your pet has a safe space to retreat to when the excitement gets too much. Whether it’s a quiet room or a corner of your home, this area should have their bed, toys, and water. Make sure family members and visitors understand that this is your pet’s sanctuary and should be left undisturbed. 

  1. Stick to routine 

Pets thrive on routine, and the sudden change in schedules during the holiday season can cause anxiety. Try to stick to your pet’s regular feeding, walking, and playtime schedule as much as possible. A consistent routine helps pets feel more secure, even during the Christmas chaos. 

  1. Introduce new people slowly 

If you're hosting a Christmas gathering or your pet is simply nervous around new people, introduce guests to them slowly. Too many new, unfamiliar and often excitable faces at once can be overwhelming. If your pet is particularly anxious, it could be a good idea to allow them to stay in their safe space until your guests have left. 

  1. Use calming aids 

For anxious pets, calming aids like pheromone diffusers, calming collars, or natural supplements can help reduce stress. Talk to your vet about the safest and most effective options for your pet. 

Handling pet illness or injury 

We all want our pets to enjoy Christmas as much as we do but sometimes, unexpected illnesses or injuries can still happen. And during the festive season, it can be tricker to find a vet as any practices have reduced hours or are closed. But with a little planning, there are steps you can take to be prepared. 

These include: 

  1. Know your emergency vet options 

Before the festive season starts, find out which vet clinics in your area are open during the Christmas period or offer 24/7 emergency care.  Having this information ready will save you time in case of an emergency.  

  1. Create a pet first aid kit 

Having a basic first aid kit for pets can be handy. Include items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers and the emergency contact number for your vet. This kit could help you manage minor injuries until you can get professional care, giving you and your pet extra reassurance when you need it most. 

  1. Keep an eye on signs and symptoms 

Pets can’t tell us if they’re not feeling well, but they do show signs. Look out for things like vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, loss of appetite or difficulty breathing. By keeping an eye on symptoms, and watching out for any changes in behaviour, you can act early and potentially avoid bigger problems later. If something feels off, always reach out to your vet. 

cat at christmas

Making Christmas safe and enjoyable for pets 

Christmas can be a wonderful time to include your much-loved pet in the festivities. Whether it’s a stocking full of toys and treats or festive snaps in front of the Christmas tree, there are lots of ways to make the holiday season safe and special for pets. 

Here are a few ideas: 

  1. Pick pet-friendly decorations 

Before you deck the halls, remember that not all decorations are safe for pets.  Keep playful paws at bay with shatterproof baubles and ornaments, avoid using tinsel as it can be easily swallowed, and keep wires out of reach to prevent chewing. You can also secure your Christmas tree so it doesn’t topple over if any curious cats or excitable pups decide to explore or climb it. 

  1. Top up on safe festive treats 

Chocolate, mince pies and Christmas pudding: festive food is part of the holiday fun, but not all human food is safe for pets. Be sure you know which foods are safe and which are dangerous for cats, dogs and small animals like rabbits. Keep toxic or poisonous food out of reach, and don’t leave pets unattended around them. 

 Instead, offer them safe festive treats alongside their regular diet: 

  • For cats and dogs: Try small amounts of plain, cooked chicken or turkey, without seasoning, or their favourite shop-bought festive treats 

  • For rabbits: Offer fresh veggies like leafy greens or fruit like apples, without seeds 

Explore our guides on safe and unsafe food for dogs, cats and rabbits. 

  1. Let your pet join in the fun 

From unwrapping presents together to letting them explore leftover gift boxes, your pet can be part of the festivities. Some may even enjoy wearing a festive collar or bandana, but it’s essential to ensure they’re comfortable and not stressed by dressing up. 

Why pet insurance matters 

Christmas is meant to be a joyful time but if your pet falls ill or gets injured, unexpected vet bills can make the festive season feel more stressful.  

While pet insurance provides essential protection throughout the year, covering everything from accidents to sudden illnesses and routine treatments, it becomes especially valuable during Christmas, when seeing a vet can be more challenging. 

It’s important to explore different pet insurance options and compare providers to find the best cover for you and your pet. Look for a pet plan that meets your specific needs, so you can ensure your loyal sidekick gets the care they need. And you can have peace of mind that you’re financially protected. 

Key takeaways  

  • Christmas can be a hectic time for everyone, including pets. If you’re thinking about getting a new pet, it might be easier for them to settle after the festive season. But if you've recently welcomed a new pet, there’s no need to worry.  Just take extra care to keep things as calm as possible and give them time to adjust to their new environment 

  • If you already have a pet, there are many ways to include them in the festivities while keeping them safe. Choose pet-friendly decorations and treats, and keep your pet calm, especially if they’re sensitive to noise or new people. Create a safe, quiet space with their toys, bed, food, and water to make them feel safe and secure 

  • If your pet falls ill or is injured during the holidays, make sure you know which vets offer 24/7 care. Know the signs of illness and injury, and have a first aid kit on hand, just in case. Don’t wait for symptoms to worsen, and always reach out to your vet. Having pet insurance can help cover unexpected vet bills, so make sure you have the right cover to suit your pet’s needs

Protect your furry friend with pet insurance

Pet insurance

Common questions about pets at Christmas

  • While it may be tempting to share festive food with your pet, many seasonal treats like Christmas pudding, mince pies, chocolate, grapes, onions, and certain nuts can be harmful to them. Instead, stick to pet-friendly treats or offer safe foods, such as plain chicken or turkey for cats and dogs, or leafy greens for small animals like rabbits. Remember, treats should only be offered occasionally as part of your pet’s normal, balanced diet.

  • Some decorations could be dangerous for pets if they’re curious chewers. Tinsel, glass ornaments, and string lights can cause injury if swallowed or broken. Keep small or fragile decorations out of reach, and consider using sturdy, pet-safe alternatives to make your home festive without the worry.

  • The holidays often bring extra visitors, which can be overwhelming for pets. Set up a quiet, cosy space where they can retreat if they’re feeling stressed. Include their bed, toys, and perhaps some calming aids. Let your guests know to give your pet space and not to disturb them if your pet seems uncomfortable.

  • If you’re planning to travel with your pet, make sure they’re comfortable during the trip. Pack everything they’ll need, including food, water, bedding, and any necessary medications. Check that your destination is pet-friendly, and plan regular breaks during travel for your pet to stretch and relax. With some preparation, you can make holiday travel a positive experience for them.

  • It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle, but pets still need their regular exercise. Try to stick to their usual routine for walks and playtime to make sure they’re staying active. This could also help keep them more settled and calmer even during all the holiday excitement.

  • Winter weather can be tough on pets, especially if they spend time outdoors. Ensure dogs are well-protected with a cosy jacket or limit your pet’s time outside when it’s particularly cold. Watch for signs of discomfort, like shivering or lethargy, and bring them inside promptly to warm up.

  • Yes, it’s always important to have pet insurance. The holidays can be unpredictable, and having insurance means you’re prepared for any unexpected vet visits. Whether it’s an illness or an accident, pet insurance helps cover the cost, so your pet can get the care they need without adding extra stress to your holiday budget.

  • Many festive plants, like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly, are toxic to pets if chewed or ingested. Keep these plants out of your pet’s reach or consider using artificial versions that are safer. That way, you can still enjoy a festive home while keeping your pet safe from harm.

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