The holidays keep VEG busier than Santa’s workshop — with frantic calls like “my pet ate a ribbon,” “cat swallowed string,” and “help, my dog chewed on a toy’s battery!!” After all, it’s that time of the year when the excitement of the season can turn into pet mischief. Between the gifts, wrapping paper, ribbons, toys, and batteries, there’s a lot to keep track of – and a lot that can accidentally end up in your pet’s mouth and tummy, too!  

In this article, we’ll cover some of the most common holiday ingestion hazards, what symptoms to watch for, and how to prevent a pet emergency during the season.

Common Dangers for Pets During the Holidays

Sometimes it’s the “harmless-looking” little things that we have lying around during the holidays that become the biggest hazards for our pets.

Ribbons & Strings: Can Cause Intestinal Blockages in Cats & Dogs

Ribbons, bows, and strings are among the most common dangers for your pets during this time of the year. These can be especially enticing to your curious cat and may even be the source of excitement for your dog. 

If your pet ingests ribbons or strings, it can cause an intestinal blockage called a linear foreign body. If left unnoticed, this can lead to a severe injury or even require a surgical procedure. 

If your cat does swallow a string or you catch your dog eating a ribbon, here are some symptoms to observe: 

• Vomiting or dry heaving

• Loss of appetite

• Straining to poop

• Cats can hide or show restlessness

If you think your pet may have swallowed a ribbon or string and they are showing any of these symptoms, bring them in to your nearest emergency vet hospital asap.

VEG emergency vet hospitals are open 24 hours on holidays too!

Toy Squeakers and Rubber Balls: Small Parts, Big Risks for Pets

Opening up new toy gifts can be a highlight of the holidays. However, the fun of small squeakers or rubber balls can quickly turn into a choking hazard for your pet. Many dogs love to tear apart toys, and once a squeaker is loose, it’s just the right size to get stuck in the throat or intestines. This can lead to serious complications.

Look for the following symptoms:

• Coughing

• Gagging

• Showing signs of distress during play

If you see these signs seek veterinary attention immediately.

Tips for a safe and fun holiday season with toys:

• Keep an eye on your pet during playtime with new toys

• Choose toys that are the right size & material for your pet’s chewing habits

• Throw away damaged or worn-out toys before they become a risk

• Keep away toys for kids that have small parts

Batteries: Toxic and Dangerous for Cats & Dogs

Come holiday season, batteries are all around. Whether it’s in a toy, remote, or holiday decorations — they are among the most dangerous items that your pet can ingest. Within hours of being bitten or swallowed, the chemicals inside a battery can cause severe burns and tissue damage (necrosis) to your pet.

Button batteries (the small, round kind) are especially risky for smaller pets and can cause life-threatening injuries very quickly.

If you think your pet may have swallowed a battery: 

• Seek emergency veterinary care at VEG right away

• Do not try to induce vomiting or give your pet food or water

• Bring the battery packaging (if possible) to help your vet identify it

Packaging and Plastic Wrap: Choking Hazard for Pets 

While videos of pets “helping” unwrap presents are cute, the act itself could be unsafe for your dog or cat. After the gifts are all unwrapped, the leftover materials like tape, twist ties, plastic wrap, and even bits of cardboard can become tempting for your pet to play with. These items, however, can cause serious choking or intestinal blockages if chewed or swallowed.

Here are some tips to avoid holiday trauma: 

• Clean up wrapping materials immediately after opening

• Keep trash bins securely closed and out of reach

• Keep an eye on your pets during and after gift unwrapping

VEG Emergency Vet Hospital is Open 24/7 to Help Your Pet

Whether it’s a swallowed ribbon, a missing squeaker, or a chewed-on battery… any time your pet ingests something they shouldn’t or begins showing signs of distress, seek care immediately. Quick action can make all the difference.

Don’t hesitate to come in or call your nearest VEG location. With the latest tools and technology in vet med, VEG is equipped to handle all kinds of pet emergencies. Our team is here 24/7, even on holidays.