Kat's Corner: Keeping Pets Safe, Calm, and Comfortable During the Holidays

December brings twinkly lights, fuller calendars, and a house that suddenly smells like cookies, pine, and chaos. While we humans tend to thrive on the excitement of the season, our pets often experience December very differently.

For them, the holidays can feel loud, unpredictable, and a little unsettling.

The good news? With a little intention, you can help your pets move through the season feeling safe, calm, and cared for.

Pets Notice Every Change (Even the Ones We Forget)

Pets are masters of routine. They know when meals happen, when walks happen, and who usually comes through the door. December tends to toss all of that into a snow globe and shake it.

Common holiday disruptions include:

• Guests coming and going

• Different sleep schedules

• Extra noise and activity

• Travel or time away from home

• Missed walks or delayed meals

Even small changes can add up for pets, especially those who are sensitive, senior, shy, or managing anxiety.

Guests, Gatherings, and Overstimulation

Well-meaning visitors love to say hello, offer treats, or encourage pets to join the fun. Not every pet enjoys being the life of the party.

Tips for holiday gatherings:

• Give pets a quiet retreat space away from guests

• Let pets choose interaction instead of being passed around

• Remind visitors not to feed table scraps

• Watch for subtle stress signs like pacing, hiding, or excessive licking

A calm pet is a happy pet, even if that means skipping the group photo.

Holiday Food Hazards to Keep in Mind

December kitchens are full of tempting (and sometimes dangerous) smells. Many common holiday foods are unsafe for pets, including:

• Chocolate and sweets

• Onions, garlic, and seasoned foods

• Fatty meats and leftovers

• Alcohol

• Xylitol-containing treats and gum

A gentle reminder to guests and family can prevent an emergency trip to the vet.

Cold Weather Comes With Its Own Challenges

Shorter days and colder temperatures can affect pets, too.

Consider:

• Extra warmth for seniors or short-haired pets

• Paw protection from ice and salt

• Shorter, more frequent outdoor breaks when it’s bitterly cold

• Making sure outdoor cats have safe, warm shelter options

Winter doesn’t mean less care. It often means more attention.

Why Familiar Care Matters During the Holidays

When routines shift and families travel, consistency becomes incredibly valuable. Familiar sights, smells, and caregivers help pets feel secure when everything else feels different.

Professional in-home care allows pets to:

• Stay in their own environment

• Maintain regular routines

• Receive individualized attention

• Avoid the stress of boarding facilities

• Be monitored closely during a busy season

Peace of mind isn’t just for humans. Pets benefit from it too.

A Gentle Reminder This Season

The holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful. Sometimes the most loving thing we can do is protect our pets’ sense of safety while we celebrate.

Whether you’re hosting, traveling, or simply juggling a fuller calendar, planning ahead for your pet’s care makes the season smoother for everyone involved.

From our home to yours, we wish you a calm, cozy, and joy-filled holiday season—for you and the pets who make it brighter. 🐾🎄