Holiday Hazards: Foods, Decorations & Plants That Are Dangerous for Pets

The holidays are a magical time filled with food, family, and festive décor—but they can also bring hidden dangers for our pets. From tempting treats to sparkly decorations, many seasonal items can pose serious risks to dogs and cats. Knowing the hazards ahead of time helps keep your furry family members safe, healthy, and able to enjoy the celebrations right alongside you.

Holiday Foods That Are Toxic to Pets

1. Chocolate & Sweets

Chocolate—especially dark chocolate and baking chocolate—is highly toxic to dogs and cats. Xylitol, a sugar substitute found in some candies, cookies, gum, and peanut butter, can cause seizures, liver failure, and even death.

2. Fatty Foods & Table Scraps

Turkey skin, gravy, ham, and other rich foods can cause pancreatitis, a painful and potentially life-threatening condition. Avoid sharing table food, and make sure trash cans are pet-proof.

3. Alcohol

Pets are more sensitive to alcohol than humans. Even small amounts from spilled drinks or soaked desserts can cause severe intoxication.

4. Raisins, Grapes & Certain Nuts

Raisins and grapes—even in tiny amounts—can cause kidney failure in pets. Macadamia nuts can lead to weakness, tremors, and vomiting.

5. Onions & Garlic

Common in holiday dishes, onions, garlic, and chives can damage a pet’s red blood cells, leading to anemia.

Dangerous Holiday Decorations

1. Tinsel & Ribbon

Cats especially love to bat at shiny string-like decorations. If swallowed, these items can cause dangerous intestinal blockages that often require surgery.

2. Ornaments

Glass ornaments can break and cause cuts, while plastic ornaments may be tempting chew toys that can lead to choking or intestinal injury.

3. Holiday Lights

Chewing on cords can cause electrical shock. Secure cords, use cord covers, and supervise your pet around your tree or decorations.

4. Christmas Trees

Tree water can contain fertilizers, bacteria, or chemicals that are harmful if ingested. Pine needles can also irritate or puncture the stomach.

Toxic Holiday Plants

1. Poinsettias

Although not as deadly as once believed, poinsettias can still cause stomach upset, drooling, and irritation.

2. Mistletoe

Mistletoe can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, and even heart issues—keep it well out of reach.

3. Holly

The spiny leaves and toxic berries of holly can cause drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea in pets.

4. Lilies (especially for cat owners!)

Lilies are extremely toxic to cats—ingesting any part of the plant, even pollen, can lead to acute kidney failure.

How to Keep Pets Safe During the Holidays

• Keep food-covered tables out of reach and clean spills quickly.

• Secure Christmas trees so curious pets can’t knock them over.

• Opt for shatterproof ornaments and avoid tinsel altogether.

• Store toxic plants high up or choose pet-safe alternatives.

• Provide plenty of safe toys and chews to keep your pet distracted from decorations.

• Remind holiday guests not to feed your pets table scraps.

When in Doubt, Call a Professional

If you think your pet has ingested something dangerous, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital immediately. You can also reach out to:

• ASPCA Animal Poison Control: 888-426-4435

• Pet Poison Helpline: 855-764-7661

Quick action can save a life.

A Safe & Happy Holiday Season for All

With a few precautions, your home can stay festive and pet friendly. Being aware of seasonal hazards ensures your pets can enjoy all the joys of the holidays without any trips to the emergency vet.