Christmas is the most wonderful time of the year, but there’s no denying it can be a stressful time for everyone, including our pets.
With the sudden appearance of a brightly lit tree and loud decorations, it’s no wonder they might feel a bit overwhelmed.
Cat the Vet, a TikTok user who shares advice for pet owners, has offered some tips to keep your pets calm during the festive season.
She acknowledges the holiday period can be “challenging” for our furry friends because there’s so much going on, so it’s important to make them feel as comfortable as possible, no matter where you’re celebrating.
First up, she said it’s important for pets to have a “safe space”, as “Christmas is an incredibly busy time of year” with “people in and out of the house”. Having somewhere they can retreat to is vital.
She also said “don’t force visitors on them”. Cat explained: “If they want to come out and greet these extra people in the house, that’s absolutely fine – but if they don’t, don’t force them.”
Thirdly, make sure to keep them distracted and give them something to take their “mind off” the chaos around them. “This will also really help them work out any anxiety or stress they might be feeling,” she explained.
And you’re visiting someone else’s home with your pets, “take as many home comforts” as you possibly can to make your animal feel at ease. She said “anything you can fit in the car” is great, including toys and their food bowls.
Finally, she said it’s important to try to “stick to your normal routine” with your animal – especially if you have a dog with a specific walking schedule.
“You will regret not taking them out for a walk if they take their energy out on the Christmas tree or the presents, and there’s bound to be someone who’ll volunteer to go out for a walk with the dog instead of helping peel the sprouts or doing the washing up,” she shared.