We started the month sharing healthy ways to enjoy your dogs and keep them happy during the holidays. Pets are an important part of our lives, so we should make sure they feel important even this time of year right? But of course, dogs are only half the equation. So for part two this month, we’re talking celebrating your cats this holiday season!
We’re Happy! Are Our Cats?
Cats have a reputation for being aloof, but that’s not entirely fair. Many cats love spending time with their people. However, to they may not always love the conditions of that time! And the holidays can be especially trying for our our routine-loving feline companions.
So who do we incorporate cats this holiday season? Safely, carefully, and lovingly of course! Here are some of the ways include cats in our traditions, and ways that we shouldn’t!
Food
Cats can’t eat all of the same things that humans eat. The good news about that is that unlike dogs, they’re often not interested in a lot of human food. That’s partly because they have fewer taste buds so if food doesn’t taste extremely strongly, they’re less likely to enjoy it. Still, we should take precautions to keep our cats (and food) safe while we’re celebrating.
Setting the table or buffet for a family meal can lead to leaving food unattended. Sometimes the best thing to do in this situation is to keep the food in a room your pets can’t access, or vice versa.
Anything high fat is more likely to be appealing to a cat, and that fat can be dangerous. Similarly, the salt humans frequently consume can overload a cat’s system. Holiday foods can be especially rich in fat and salt.
We written a whole blog about dangerous foods for your pets during the winter holidays, so look at that for more details. And if you have any question, do your research or ask your favorite vet.
Similarly, several flowers including Pointsettas can be poisonous to cats if they eat them.
Routine Company
As we mentioned cats are typically big fans of routine. And the holidays change routines for everyone! Whether that means staying up late to finish food or wrapping presents, eating meals at odd times or having people at the home at all hours of the day and night.
While not all changes can be avoided, do your best to give your cats a sense of normalcy. Try to feed them at the same times and ensure that at least one of their usual haunts is available for them.
Many cats may like to be alone when there’s new people in the home, so give them a place where they can do that, and let your guests no what rooms are off limits. While you’re at it, set parameters for appropriate interaction with your cats.
We’ve all had our own experiences and some of us are worse about generalizing them out. Children especially might not know how to handle cats in general and your cats in particular.
Presents
When celebrating our cats this holiday season, we don’t want to leave out one of the major staples – presents! But what do you get for the cat who has everything?
Treats and special food may be good options so your cats don’t reel left out when the rest of the family is enjoying the feast. Just make sure the food you get is healthy for your cat.
Cat toys are not only a good way of celebrating your cat, but may also help them deal with any extra stress. SO think about scratching posts, cat trees, and anything fun for them to bat around.
Most of all however, set aside to spend quality time with your cats even during this busy season. They will surely appreciate it.
How Are You Celebrating Your Cats This Holiday Season?
We’ve given a few suggestions to keep your cats safe and happy, but no one knows your cats better than you. So when celebrating your cats this holiday season, feel free to add your own touches to our ideas. And if you have any questions, just contact Old Dominion Veterinary Clinic.