Holiday Hazards For Cats — Poisons to Watch Out For This Season 🎄
- My Cat Nap Cottage
- Oct 30
- 3 min read
The holidays are a time of joy, family, and togetherness — and our cats are family too! But with Thanksgiving feasts and Christmas décor, there are a few holiday hazards for cats that can sneak into your home. Many holiday foods, plants, and decorations that we love can actually be toxic or hazardous to cats.
To help you celebrate safely, we’ve put together a simple guide to holiday hazards and poisons to watch out for so you can keep your feline family members happy and healthy all season long.
🦃 Thanksgiving Foods That Are Unsafe for Cats
When the turkey comes out of the oven, it’s hard not to share a little with your curious cat. Unfortunately, many traditional Thanksgiving dishes can be harmful to their delicate systems.
🚫 Foods to Avoid:
Turkey skin, gravy, and fatty meats – These can cause stomach upset or even pancreatitis.
Onions, garlic, and chives – Found in stuffing and sides, they can damage red blood cells.
Cooked bones – They splinter easily and can cause choking or internal injuries.
Raisins, grapes, and currants – Even tiny amounts can cause kidney failure.
Alcohol and raw dough – Both can be toxic to cats.
✅ Safe treat idea: A small bite of plain, cooked turkey breast is perfectly fine in moderation!
🎄 Christmas Decorations and Plants That Can Harm Cats
The holidays bring out our cats’ curiosity — all that sparkle and shimmer is irresistible! But some festive favorites can be dangerous.
🚫 Keep your cat away from:
Tinsel, ribbon, and string – Can cause life-threatening intestinal blockages if swallowed.
Glass ornaments and snow globes – Some contain antifreeze (ethylene glycol), which is deadly to cats.
Holiday plants:
🌸 Lilies – Extremely toxic; can cause kidney failure even from small exposure.
🎄 Poinsettias – Mildly toxic; can irritate the mouth and stomach.
🍃 Mistletoe and holly – Can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.
Scented candles and essential oils – Oils like pine, cinnamon, eucalyptus, and tea tree can cause respiratory irritation or poisoning.
✅ Safer alternatives: Choose faux plants, unscented candles, and sturdy ornaments instead of stringy or breakable décor.
🐾 Tips for a Cat-Safe Holiday Home
Keep human food, drinks, and décor out of paw’s reach.
Secure trash cans and clear dishes promptly.
Offer cat-safe treats and toys so your kitty feels included.
Provide a quiet retreat space for your cat during gatherings.
Keep the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center number handy: 888-426-4435
🏥 Local Emergency Veterinary Contacts
Veterinary Emergency Clinic (Port Charlotte)
📍17829 Murdock Circle, Suite 1, Port Charlotte, FL 33948
📞 (941) 255-5222
BluePearl Pet Hospital (Fort Myers)
📍9500 Marketplace Road, Fort Myers, FL 33912
📞 (239) 947-0588
🎅 Celebrate Safely with Your Cat
A little preparation goes a long way toward keeping your cat healthy and happy through the holidays. By avoiding toxic foods and plants — and keeping decorations cat-friendly — you can relax and enjoy a season filled with peace, purrs, and plenty of love.
🐱 About My Cat Nap Cottage
Located at 6101 Duncan Rd, Punta Gorda, FL 33950, My Cat Nap Cottage is a feline-exclusive boarding and grooming facility designed entirely around cats. Each family enjoys a spacious private room where cats can climb, hide, and relax comfortably. Our quiet grooming area provides a peaceful experience for even the most sensitive kitties.
📞 Call us at 941-833-2287 to schedule your cat’s next stay or grooming session — and give them a holiday as cozy and calm as yours!
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