The Cat Practice, Oak Park, Illinois

Winter Pet Safety Tips

With all the excitement that comes with the holidays, it's easy to overlook some common hazards around the house and yard that pose a threat to dogs and cats. So please, take a moment to review this winter safety checklist. The Animal Care League wants you and your pets to enjoy a happy, trouble-free holiday season!

Frostbite.
Your pet's feet and ears aren't covered by much fur, leaving these areas vulnerable to frostbite. Signs of frostbite include pale skin that is cool to the touch. After thawing, frostbitten skin may look burned. If you suspect your pet is suffering from frostbite, call your veterinarian immediately.
Snow.
Ice and snow can disguise outdoor scents and disorient your pet, increasing his chances of getting lost. That's why you should always keep your dog on a leash, even if he obeys you when walking. And we advise you to play it safe and keep your cat indoors all year round but especially whenever there's snow on the ground.
Jagged ice and sidewalk salt.
These sharp items are everywhere in the winter -- and they can damage your pet's footpads. Check her feet after every trip outside and wipe her pads with a damp towel.
Antifreeze.
Cats and dogs are unfortunately attracted to the sweet smell and taste of antifreeze, which is deadly if ingested. Keep it away from your animals, and clean up any spills immediately.
Christmas trees.
For starters, be sure that your tree is secure in its stand so that it can't accidentally be knocked over. The sharp pine needles, broken ornaments, and ornament hooks that scatter when aChristmas tree falls could injure your pet. And if you have anything other than plain water in the tree stand, keep it covered so that your dog or cat can't drink from it.
Seasonal plants.
Holly and poinsettias are poisonous, so keep them out of reach. Make sure to hang mistletoe so that the poisonous berries won't fall where your pets can find them -- and eat them.
Holiday decorations.
If swallowed, tinsel, string, and ribbon can cause choking or intestinal blockage. And keep a close eye on your pet if she wanders too close to the Christmas lights -- indoor or outdoor. If she chews on the electrical cord, she could be burned or electrocuted.
Table scraps.
An occasional treat from your holiday table may be harmless, but too much non-pet food could leave your dog or cat with an upset stomach. Turkey bones are especially dangerous for pets because they can become lodged in the throat, or splinter and injure internal organs. And don't let your dog or cat have chocolate, because it's particularly hard for them to digest.
Be prepared!
Even though we try to keep our homes safe for our pets, accidents do happen. That's why you should ask your veterinarian for an emergency number you can call should your pet require medical care when the office is closed.