Ahhhh…it is that time of year again….the festivities are engaging and we will soon be on full throttle into the holiday season. So much work to do…so little time! But before you get all wrapped up in your “to do” list, there are a few things you should keep in mind when it comes to keeping your precious cat safe and happy this Thanksgiving.
Just like you plan ahead for your Thanksgiving meal, you should plan ahead and take the necessary precautions to keep your cat safe during the celebration.
Will you decorate with flowers and plants? If so, bear in mind that many of the most beautiful plants and flowers are also quite deadly to cats. One of the deadliest (and also one of my personal favorites!) are lilies. All parts of any of the true lilies are poisonous and even if ingested in a small dose can prove to be fatal to your cat. If you are unsure of any plant, bouquet or centerpiece that could be harmful to your cat, just keep them out of his reach or simply do not use it as part of the holiday design. The ASPCA has a database of plants that are toxic:
http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants
The same goes for those cozy and nice-smelling candles, tart warmers and fireplaces. Curious cats can get into trouble with these. A candle can be knocked over or burning embers can be pulled from the fireplace.
Beware the potpourri, too. The herbs and oils used in them can be toxic to your cat if ingested. (Funny story – when my grandma was around 105 or so, she found a bowl of potpourri in the guest bath at my mom’s house. Thought it was candy. Had a handful. Lived to tell the story for another three years! I doubt your cat could do the same, however, so keep that stuff out of sight!)
And then there is all that yummy food you are preparing. While some cats can do well with table foods, others can become sick. Use caution and inform your guests not to feed your cat. Huge warning: Turkey bones – keep these away from your cat. They not only cause a choking hazard but are harmful to the digestive track.
And you know that string that you use when securing your turkey or ham? That can be tempting to your cat because it looks like a toy and it also retains the odor from the food. If caught in the intestinal tract, these can cause irreparable damage.
Finally, be sure to keep a close eye on your cat. If your home is filled with people coming and going, it may give your otherwise indoor cat a chance to escape. Be sure he has a collar with proper ID on it. You never know what might happen.
Sure, this sounds like a lot to remember, but most of it is common sense anyway. Just relax and have fun with family, friends and feline company this Thanksgiving.
Written by Ann Butenas
An internationally-recognized author and writer, Ann began her professional writing career at age 12 and began speaking while in college. She has been published thousands of times over the past three decades in all media forms, was former editor and publisher of KC Metro Woman magazine, and has also hosted three talk radio shows in the Kansas City area.
