10/29/2026
Good morning all, I received this email mail and thought I would pass it on.
Keeping cats safe during seasonal celebrations
Are you looking forward to seasonal celebrations? Last month we shared some tips on how to prepare and keep your cat safe during fireworks. As we look ahead to more festivities, we’re sharing a few more tips, to help keep your feline friends safe and calm.
It may seem tempting to dress up your cat for occasions such as Halloween or Christmas, but we do not recommend putting costumes on cats. Even if the cat appears to accept the costume being put on, they could be feeling uncomfortable and restricted. Cats may even freeze or ‘shut down’ when they feel a loss of control or are afraid. It's not worth causing your cat stress for the sake of a few photos! If your cat accepts wearing a collar, try changing it to match the seasons instead.
Popular cooking ingredients could make cats sick or be a choking hazard, for example onions, garlic, alcohol, dried vine fruits, bones, chocolate and dairy products. Keep them out of paw’s reach!
Before lighting bonfire piles, check them for animals that may be hiding. Avoid accidental burnt paws and whiskers by keeping lit candles on a surface where cats won’t be able to reach them. Or try battery powered candles as a safe alternative.
Some plants and flowers, like mistletoe, holly, poinsettias and pine needles can be harmful to cats if ingested. Check any plants you are bringing into your home are safe for cats, or try faux plants instead that can be reused each year.
Secure decorations, like Christmas trees, so they can’t be pulled down or topple over. Use shatterproof baubles and keep fake snow in places where cats can’t eat it and get sick. Keep wires of decorations like string lights covered or out of reach so they can’t be chewed or urinated on, and cats can’t get tangled up.
If you are wrapping gifts over the giving season, be sure to tidy away any ribbon, string, tape and anything else that could be swallowed by your cat and cause an intestinal obstruction.
Antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is poisonous to cats and can be found in items like de-icer, radiators, screen wash for cars, water features and snow globes. Clean up any spills immediately. If it’s cold where you are, check our website for more tips.
️If your cat has ingested something they shouldn’t have, is injured or distressed, contact your vet immediately for advice.
iCatCare is a global charity improving cat welfare through trusted advice, education, and programmes for caregivers and veterinary professionals.
