Keep Mince Pies Out of Paws’ Reach This Christmas! 🎄🐾
Helping your pets stay safe, happy, and far away from emergency vet visits this festive season.
With Christmas just around the corner, the teams at Beechwood and Low Waters want to share a gentle reminder to keep those tempting festive treats - especially mince pies and Christmas pudding - well out of reach of hungry pets.
They may be delicious for us, but for dogs and cats, even a small amount of raisins or sultanas can cause serious illness. And yes, pets do seem to have a knack for sniffing out the goodies we thought we’d hidden perfectly…
Why Mince Pies and Christmas Puddings Are Dangerous
Sultanas and raisins can be highly toxic to dogs and cats. Sadly, we see cases every single year where curious animals have managed to sneak a bite of something they shouldn’t. Nationally, vets report that more than three-quarters of clinics have treated dogs for raisin or sultana poisoning in the last year, and even cats have been known to go exploring in the dessert cupboard!
So, while an extra slice might only mean a tighter waistband for us, the same treat could be life-threatening for a pet.
Other Festive Hazards to Watch Out For
It’s not just the dried fruit that causes trouble over Christmas. A few other culprits include:
Festive Foods 🍫🍗🍷
Chocolate – contains theobromine, which is toxic to pets.
Onions, garlic & leeks – part of the Allium family, all of which are toxic to pets. Every part of these plants is harmful in any form (including raw, cooked or dried). These three are very common festive culprits, often hidden in stuffing, gravy and leftovers.
Fatty or rich foods – can trigger tummy upsets or even pancreatitis.
Alcohol – extremely dangerous for pets, even in small amounts.
Decorations & Wrapping 🎁✨
Tinsel, ribbons, bows, tape – can cause dangerous blockages if swallowed.
Baubles & fairy lights – chewed or smashed decorations can lead to cuts or internal injuries.
Edible decorations – chocolate ornaments or wrapped food under the tree are very tempting for pets!
Candles – keep them away from wagging tails and curious paws.
Christmas Trees 🎄
Make sure your tree is secure so it can’t topple.
Block access if your pet just can’t resist climbing or chewing.
Toxic Plants 🌿
Poinsettias, holly, mistletoe – can cause vomiting or diarrhoea.
Lilies – extremely toxic to cats, even in tiny amounts.
Consider pet-safe artificial alternatives.
Cold-Weather Worries ❄️
Antifreeze – incredibly poisonous to cats; even small spills can be deadly.
Salt & grit – rinse paws after walks to avoid irritation and ingestion.
Help Your Pet Stay Calm During the Festivities
Christmas can feel exciting, busy, and a little overwhelming for our furry friends.
Creating a quiet space with their favourite bed, toys, and water gives them a safe retreat when things get too lively. And it always helps to stick as closely as possible to their usual routine.
And If In Doubt… Call Us!
We know that accidents can still happen no matter how careful everyone is. If you think your pet has eaten something they shouldn’t, or you’re simply not sure, please call us straight away for advice.
Don’t forget to check our holiday opening hours and make a note of our emergency care partners, who are available whenever we’re closed to make sure your pets are always supported.