
The holidays are a time of cosiness, good food, and beautiful Christmas decorations. What many people forget is that all those gorgeous decorations are dangerous for our pets. Whether you have a cat that knocks every bauble off the tree, or a dog that thinks glittering lights are a new toy, it is important to be aware of the risks.
Cats in particular see a Christmas tree as a new climbing opportunity. The result? Toppled trees and broken ornaments. But that's not the only thing. Artificial snow, fake snow sprays and certain tree decorations can be toxic if swallowed. To avoid problems, secure the tree and hang breakable decorations higher up in the tree, out of reach of curious paws. It is also a good idea to keep furniture, or other springboards away from your Christmas tree.
Christmas decorations such as tinsel, garlands and ribbons are attractive for animals to play with or eat. These decorations can cause blockages in the digestive tract if swallowed, which can lead to serious complications. Therefore, opt for animal-safe alternatives such as fabric garlands or omit these decorations altogether if you have pets.
Twinkling lights look beautiful, especially as the days get darker it brings atmosphere. For animals, the associated cables can become a play object. Young dogs and cats in particular try to chew on these cables, which can lead to electric shocks and other woes. Secure your lights and make sure all cords are properly stored or out of reach.
During the holidays, there is often everything on the table, from chocolate to sultanas and other treats that can be dangerous for pets. Make sure food is kept out of your pets' reach and that your guests are aware of what your pet can and cannot eat.
The festive season is a time of joy, and with a few simple adjustments, your pets can also enjoy themselves without danger. This is how we make sure Christmas stays a party for everyone!
Do you have questions about how to keep your pet safe during the holidays? Contact HFL Animal Health for more tips and products specifically designed to ensure your pet's safety and well-being.
Discover the 10 most common winter mistakes made by dogs, cats, horses, small animals and birds. With clear explanations, risks and practical solutions for each species.
We wrote a blog about this earlier: https://hfl-animalhealth.com/2025/11/24/tien-fouten-dieren-kwetsbaar-koud/
The main trigger for winter coat growth is the decrease in the amount of daylight. When the days get shorter, this triggers a biological process that stimulates the growth of the winter coat. This dense, warm coat helps animals stay comfortable and protected during winter. While this fur provides natural protection, it also requires proper care. To assist your pet during these cold times, we share some tips below.
We wrote a blog about this earlier: https://hfl-animalhealth.com/2024/09/27/de-wintervacht-van-honden-en-katten/
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We wrote a blog about this earlier: https://hfl-animalhealth.com/2025/11/17/zes-tips-voor-een-veilige-winterwandeling/
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We wrote a blog about this earlier: https://hfl-animalhealth.com/2025/10/20/klaar-voor-koudere-maanden-met-een-paardendeken/