A Merry and Calm Christmas: How to Keep Your Pet Stress-Free During the Holidays

Seasonal Shifts

The holiday season can be a time of joy and excitement for humans, but for our furry friends, it can sometimes be overwhelming. With guests coming and going, sparkling decorations, and lots of new sights and smells, it’s important to prepare your pet so that they feel just as comfortable and relaxed during Christmas as you do. Here’s your guide to a stress-free holiday for your pet, with some helpful product recommendations from The Pet Parlour’s online shop.

1. Create a Calm Space

Christmas gatherings can make the house busier than usual, which can be stressful for pets. Make sure your pet has a quiet, comfortable retreat where they can go if they need some peace. This could be a separate room or even just a cozy corner.

Consider setting up a comfortable bed like the Republic Of Pet Snuggle Touch Luxury Dog Bed – Blue for your dog or the Flat Pad Snuggle Pouch Bed – Pink for your cat. These soft, snug areas give them a safe space to retreat when the festivities get too much.

2. Minimize Holiday Anxiety

If your pet tends to get anxious around loud noises or new people, there are ways to help them feel more at ease. The sound of guests, doorbells, and even holiday music can be triggering.

A calming solution like the Pet Remedy Calming Plug-In Diffuser could be just what your pet needs to stay relaxed. You can also consider the Adaptil Calm Diffuser or the Adaptil Calm Collar for continuous calming support. For a natural supplement, the Johnsons Calm-eze For Dogs & Cats works wonders in easing stress.

3. Safety Around Holiday Decorations

Christmas trees, tinsel, and festive lights can be a lot of fun—but they can also be a hazard for pets. Cats are particularly intrigued by shiny tinsel and dangling ornaments, and dogs might find electric cords too tempting to chew.

To keep your pets safe, consider using pet-proof decorations. Avoid using glass ornaments at the bottom of the tree, and make sure electric cords are out of reach or protected with cord protectors.

4. Keep to a Routine

With the holidays comes a change in routine, which can make pets feel uneasy. Try to maintain your pet’s regular schedule as much as possible—whether that means feeding them at their usual times, ensuring they get their daily walks, or keeping up with playtime.

If you’re having guests over, make sure your pet has access to their usual toys and activities. The Trixie Snack Ball is a great way to keep them entertained while you entertain your guests.

5. Holiday Treats in Moderation

It’s tempting to spoil your furry friend with lots of tasty treats over the holiday season, but remember that many human foods are not safe for pets. Avoid giving your pet chocolate, raisins, or other foods that can be toxic to them.

Instead, treat them to something special from Pet Parlour’s Natural Treats Range. These treats are a festive and healthy way for them to enjoy the holidays alongside you.

6. Managing Guests and Travel Plans

If you’re hosting a Christmas gathering, make sure your guests know how to interact with your pets, especially if they aren’t used to animals. Let guests know not to feed your pet scraps, and encourage children to be gentle.

For those planning to travel, it’s essential to make sure pets are well-prepared. If your pet isn’t traveling with you, ensure you have a reliable sitter or boarding service booked in advance. If they are traveling, consider the Savic Pet Carrier – Trotter 1 for safe and stress-free transport.

7. Keep Decorations Pet-Friendly

A good rule of thumb is to always keep tempting decorations out of reach, especially for curious pets. Consider opting for LED candles instead of real ones to avoid any fire hazards caused by wagging tails or curious paws.

Keep an eye on your dog during walks and in the garden to prevent them from ingesting anything harmful. If you enjoy giving your dog seasonal treats, opt for safe options like pumpkin or sweet potato, which are both nutritious and delicious. Engaging in fun, seasonal activities like playing in the leaves or enjoying a crisp autumn walk can be enriching for your dog while helping to burn energy.