A Cat’s Holiday Guide
A cat’s life doesn’t revolve around the holidays as it does for humans. This doesn’t mean they don’t need some extra care during this time of year. Holiday decorations can be dangerous to your furry friends, especially when they may mistake the tinsel on the tree for bird feathers and get caught up in the lights when they jump on the furniture to try to catch them. Here are some helpful tips on how to make sure your cat stays safe and comfortable throughout the holidays.
What Foods Cats shouldn’t Eat During the Holidays?
Most cats really enjoy a lot of what we eat, but there are a few foods that could be harmful to them. The biggest thing you have to worry about is turkey and other smoked meats. Cats love chicken, right? They also love turkey! So then why aren’t they allowed at Thanksgiving? That’s because when the turkey is cooked at very high temperatures, chemicals form in it called nitrosamines. These can cause liver damage in cats. A few human foods that are off-limits for cats include chocolate, sugar cookies, and any leftover gravy. Plus, keep in mind that fatty foods like turkey skin should only be given sparingly; it is usually healthier to stick with regular dry food.
Good Treats From the Cat’s Holiday Guide…
There are some treats you can give your cat without fear of putting them in danger. Notable healthy treats include plain boiled chicken, salmon, lean ground beef and even small amounts of shredded cheese or cooked egg whites (so long as there is no salmonella risk). Pumpkin is actually quite good for cats as long as it hasn’t been treated with salt or sugar, and certain oils can help aid digestion as well.
Making the Holidays Less Stressful for Kitty…
Whether you’re traveling with your cat or celebrating at home, holidays can be hectic—and stressful—for pets. But there are ways you can make it easier for them! For example, keep kitty in his or her usual environment if possible. Bringing a familiar blanket or toy can be comforting, and it’s less likely that your furry friend will get anxious when he doesn’t have too much new stuff to get used to. If your cat gets stressed out easily, you might want to invest in some holiday decorations that are really cute but not too overwhelming—cats are very visual creatures! To calm them down during travel, use catnip toys or bring their bedding from home so they feel secure while away from home.
Additional articles and resources are available at MyPetThrives.com
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