The cats are always amazed by the lights of the Christmas tree (which you can see reflected in the window behind Noel and Stella).  K8 caught them watching the twinkling from a safe distance.  Nine, of course, was already climbing the tree, doing his best to undo all the wonderful decorations that K8 and V were putting up.

Don’t forget to celebrate the shortest day and longest night of the year (Winter Solstice) today in the Northern Hemisphere.  We gain a bit more daylight every day now until the Spring Equinox.

I can not imagine a life without cats. Happy Caturday.

Keep the furries safe this holiday.  Here is a little reminder list of what to be careful of for your cats and dogs (and rabbits and guinea pigs and potbellies, and probably ferrets too) this season:

Bones – Small turkey and ham bones can lodge in the throat, stomach and digestive tract requiring surgery to remove. Also, the fats and gravies that you may add to your pets‘ food can cause diarrhea and vomiting (and ultimately pancreatitis (Yuk!)).

Christmas Trees – These create a whole realm of dangers for your pet. Poorly secured trees can fall on rambunctious pets as the run around or try to climb them. Pine needles can cause GI irritation and perforation. Sharp or breakable ornaments should be kept well out-of-the-way of curious mouths and paws. Christmas trees may contain additives and preservatives, which leech into the water and can be toxic if ingested. Tinsel, yarn and ribbon can cause linear foreign bodies (get wrapped up throughout the intestinal tract) and create a blockage and/or possible perforations.

Electrical Cords – These are always a hazard to curious kittens and puppies. But the extra lights and decorations give even more temptation. Make sure that all electrical cords are in good condition and out of reach.

Holiday Plants – Many plants can be poisonous to you pet. The holidays add a few more to that list and include mistletoe, poinsettia, lilies and holly (the berries are especially toxic).

Lost Pets – The holidays make it easier for pets to sneak their way out of the house with the extra guests and visiting friends going in and out. Be sure to keep identification on your pets and keep them contained in a bedroom if you are expecting a lot of foot traffic through your front door.

Sweets – Holiday candy can cause GI problems and become toxic once ingested. Chocolate is one of the most common causes of toxic reaction in pets. The darker the chocolate the worse it is. Do not place wrapped boxes of chocolate under the tree – dogs can sniff them out. Also be sure to keep the candy dishes covered so playful paws aren’t tempted to fish them out.

(list compiled with help from http://www.paws.org/holiday-hazards-for-pets.html)

Let’s all have a safe holiday season!

 Just another CATDogDaz morning at the zoo ❤