Plenty of households hang a stocking for the dog or cat, and it is a lovely tradition. It also comes at a time of year when houses are full of food and decorations that can be dangerous for pets. A pet stocking needs a little more thought than a human one. This guide covers what to keep out, what makes a good toy or treat, and how to keep the whole thing sensible.
We are not vets. If you are ever worried that your pet has eaten something harmful, contact your vet straight away, or an out of hours vet if your own practice is closed. Do not wait for symptoms.
Festive foods to keep away from pets
The biggest risks at Christmas come from human food. These are widely recognised as harmful to dogs, cats or both:
- Chocolate. Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and cats. Dark chocolate and cocoa powder are the most dangerous. Never put human chocolate in a pet stocking, and keep chocolate gifts and tree decorations out of reach.
- Grapes, raisins, sultanas and currants. These can cause serious kidney problems in dogs, even in small amounts. That makes Christmas pudding, Christmas cake, mince pies and stollen a real risk.
- Onions, garlic, leeks and chives. These are harmful to dogs and cats, which matters with stuffing, gravy and leftovers.
- Xylitol. This sweetener, found in some sugar free sweets, chewing gum and some peanut butters, is extremely dangerous for dogs.
- Cooked bones. Cooked bones, including turkey bones, can splinter and cause injuries or blockages.
- Macadamia nuts. These are toxic to dogs.
- Alcohol. Even small amounts are dangerous for pets.
The simplest rule is: nothing from the human stocking or the human Christmas dinner goes in the pet stocking. Use treats made for pets.
Decorations and plants
- Lilies are highly toxic to cats. All parts of the plant, including the pollen and the water in the vase, can cause kidney failure. Many vets advise not having lilies in a home with cats at all.
- Tinsel, ribbon and string are especially attractive to cats and can cause serious internal problems if swallowed. Do not use ribbon on pet presents, and keep tinsel high up.
- Poinsettia, holly and mistletoe can cause stomach upsets and, in the case of holly and mistletoe berries, more serious problems. Keep them out of reach.
- Batteries and small baubles can be swallowed by curious dogs.
What makes a safe pet toy
For dogs
- Get the size right. A toy should be too big to fit fully in your dog's mouth or be swallowed. This is why the KONG Classic comes in sizes: buy the one recommended for your dog's weight and chewing style, not the cheapest.
- Match the toy to the chewer. Soft plush toys, such as the House of Paws Christmas Carrot or Parsnip toys, are fine for gentle players but will not survive a determined chewer. Rubber and latex toys like the KONG or the Lords & Labradors Chrissie Christmas Pudding toy suit heavier chewers better.
- Supervise new toys. Watch your dog with any new toy at first, and remove it if it starts to come apart, especially if there is a squeaker inside.
- Dress up sparingly. Antler headbands are for a quick photo, not for wearing all day, and only if your dog is relaxed about it.
For cats
- Avoid loose strings and feathers on long cords unless you are playing together and put the toy away afterwards.
- Catnip is safe and many cats love it, though not all cats respond to it and kittens often do not. The Catit Pure Catnip or a catnip toy is an easy stocking filler.
- Laser toys like the Catit Laser Toy are good fun but never shine them in your cat's eyes, and finish a session by letting them "catch" a real toy or treat so they are not left frustrated.
- Treat dispensing toys such as the Catit PIXI Treat Dispenser Toy Mouse slow down eating and give indoor cats something to do.
Keeping treats sensible
Pet treats are designed for pets, but they still add up. Christmas is a time when pets often get extra food from several people at once. A few pointers:
- Follow the feeding guide on the pack and count treats as part of the daily food allowance.
- Introduce new treats slowly if your pet has a sensitive stomach. Christmas Day, with the vet closed, is not the best time to try five new foods.
- Space out advent calendars and selection boxes. The Pets at Home Christmas Cat Advent Calendar and the Lords & Labradors Luxury 12 Days of Christmas Box for Dogs are designed to be opened over days, not all at once.
- Check for allergies if your pet is on a special diet. Ask your vet before adding treats if they are on prescription food.
Pet specific festive treats, such as Lily's Kitchen Festive Turkey Jerky or Forthglade Christmas Classics for dogs, and the Felix Christmas Selection Box or Catit Creamy lickable treats for cats, let them join in without the risks of human food.
Wrapping a pet stocking
Some dogs love unwrapping, and it is fun to watch. Use plain paper and no ribbon, tape lightly, and supervise so that paper is not eaten. For cats, a cardboard box is often the best present of all, and it is free.
Ideas by budget
- Dog stocking fillers under £5
- Dog stocking fillers under £10
- Cat stocking fillers under £5
- Cat stocking fillers under £10
Every product in our pet guides is made for dogs or cats. Even so, check the size and age guidance on each one for your own pet, and if in doubt, ask your vet.