The cats are always amazed by the lights of the Christmas tree (which you can see reflected in the window behind Noel and Stella in this picture from 2013). K8 caught them watching the twinkling from a safe distance. Nine, of course, was climbing the tree, doing his best to undo all the wonderful decorations that everyone was putting up.

Don’t forget to celebrate the shortest day and longest night of the year (Winter Solstice) next Friday in the Northern Hemisphere. We will start to gain a bit more daylight every day from the Winter Solstice until the Spring Solstice in June.

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

DOGDAZ HOLIDAY LIST TO KEEP THEM SAFE

Here is a list of what to be careful of this holiday season for your cats and dogs and rabbits and guinea pigs and potbellies and ferrets, and…..

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 runaround 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 leach 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 this time of year is even more tempting. Make sure that all electrical cords are in good condition and out of reach.

Holiday Plants – Many plants can be poisonous to your 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 or behind a gate 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.

Noel, The Christmas Cat
2009

Have a safe and healthy holiday!!

 Just another CATDogDaz morning at the zoo ❤