KIMBERLY A. WERNER, VMD

Holiday Hazards

Christmas Trees

Christmas tree water may contain fertilizers that will upset pets' stomachs. Stagnant tree water can also be a breeding ground for bacteria that could, if ingested, lead to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Avoid pets' exposure to electrical cords. Animals that chew on cords face the risk of electrocution. Cover up or hide extension or electrical cords.
Ribbons or tinsel can become lodged in pets' intestines and cause obstruction. (This is a common situation for kittens.)
Batteries contain corrosives and, if ingested, can cause ulceration of the mouth, tongue, and gastrointestinal tract.
Glass ornaments can cause internal lacerations if ingested.

Holiday Plants

The lilies found in many holiday flower arrangements could be deadly to your cat. Many types of lilies-such as Tiger, Asian, Japanese Show, Easter, Stargazer, and Casa Blanca-can cause kidney failure in cats if ingested.
The toxicity of poinsettias is generally overinflated. If ingested, poinsettias can be irritating to the mouth and stomach and may cause nausea or vomiting.
Mistletoe has the potential to cause cardiovascular problems, but ingestion typically causes gastrointestinal upset.
Holly ingestion could cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.

Other Holiday and Cold Weather Dangers
	Keep your pet away from chocolate and candy dishes, and don't let them in the kitchen unsupervised when you're baking.
	Antifreeze has a pleasant taste but small amounts can be lethal. As little as one teaspoon can be deadly to a cat; less than four teaspoons can be dangerous to a 10 pound dog. Thoroughly clean up any spills and store antifreeze in tightly closed containers in secured cabinets. All automotive products such as gasoline, oil, and antifreeze should be stored in areas that are inaccessible to your pets.
	Liquid potpourris are popular during the holiday season. Pets are often exposed to liquid potpourri by ingesting it from simmering pots or spills, by rubbing against leaky potpourri bottles or pots. Exposure to some types of liquid potpourris can result in severe oral, dermal, and ocular damage.
	Ice-melting products can be irritating to pets' skin and mouths. Depending on the active ingredient in the ice-melting product and the quantity ingested, clinical signs include excessive drooling, depression, and vomiting. Restrict pets' access to areas where these products have been used.
	Rat and mouse bait or traps are used more often in colder weather. When using rat or mouse bait (or traps), place the products in areas that are inaccessible to your companion animals.

ANIMAL POISON CONTROL CENTER 1-888-4-ANI-HELP