Metro: Christmas symbols to keep cats away from

Most likely, spoiled pets will spend Christmas night rummaging through stockings filled with gifts and sweets. On holiday they will feast on turkey, pieces of which will be stolen from the table.

But do not forget that items that are completely harmless to humans, from food to jewelry, can be deadly to cats. And if you do not want to overshadow the holiday with an emergency visit to the veterinarian, it is better to heed the advice of experts from the British animal welfare charity Blue Cross.

For example, a cat can not only climb a Christmas tree and knock it down. The oils secreted by some coniferous trees are moderately toxic and can irritate the mucous membranes of the mouth and stomach of the animal. A cat can also be badly pricked by needles. In addition, if the spruce is in a tub or bucket and you are taking care of it, it is better to ensure that pets do not have access to fertilizers that you sprinkle on the soil.

Cats love tinsel, but it can cause blockages in the stomach and intestines. In some cases, it can lead to death.

“Christmas tree decorations may look just like cat toys, but if an animal swallows or breaks them, it can lead to injury,” Blue Cross experts added, and advised even glass balls with snow to be hidden from animals. They contain ethylene glycol, which is highly toxic.

Cats can gnaw on the string lights, so it’s best to turn them off when people aren’t in the room.

If you don’t want trouble, think twice before sharing your holiday dinner with your pet. Cats are toxic to onion sauce, garlic, raisins, grapes, chocolate, and alcohol.

“There have been instances in our hospitals of cats eating drunken Christmas cakes and lapping up spilled sugary alcoholic drinks,” a Blue Cross spokesperson shared.

You should also ask guests not to succumb to provocations, and not to feed beggars, no matter how sad their eyes may be.

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