The Christmas season is filled with excitement with twinkling lights, festive food, visiting friends and long-awaited holidays. But for our pets, the changes and chaos can be a bit overwhelming. Whether you’re staying home, having guests round, or going away for a few days, it’s important to make sure your animals stay comfortable, calm and well looked after during the festive period.
From disrupted routines and loud parties to the presence of strangers in the home, Christmas brings challenges that can affect even the most laid-back pets. Keeping your pets happy over Christmas can be easy and with a little preparation, you can reduce their stress and ensure they enjoy the season as much as you do.
If you live in West Oxfordshire, including Witney, Burford, Woodstock, Enstone and Chipping Norton, here’s how to support your pet’s wellbeing throughout the holidays, and how Paw Pals West Oxfordshire can help with reliable, flexible care.
Staying Home for the Holidays? Routine Is Still Key
Even if you’re not travelling, your pet’s world might still feel very different in December. Christmas trees, new smells, furniture rearrangements and last-minute shopping trips can all be a little unsettling for dogs and cats alike.
Keeping to a familiar routine as much as possible can help:
- Feed at the same times each day: Even when your own schedule is unpredictable
- Stick to walking routines: Regular exercise helps dogs burn off excess energy and manage stress
- Limit treats and scraps: Rich or unfamiliar food can upset stomachs and lead to weight gain
- Avoid overwhelming changes: Try not to move litter trays, food bowls or beds if your pet is settled in their usual space
Cats, in particular, thrive on consistency. Loud visitors or rearranged rooms can make them anxious, so make sure they still have access to their preferred hiding spots or sleeping areas. A closed-off room with their bed, litter tray and fresh water can give them a safe retreat during busy moments.
Expecting Guests? Make Time for Your Pets’ Needs
Hosting Christmas can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s easy to forget that the added activity can cause anxiety for your animals. Nervous pets may not cope well with noise, new faces or being handled by unfamiliar people.
Some helpful tips:
- Introduce visitors slowly: Let your pet come to them on their own terms
- Create a quiet zone: Designate a pet-safe room where they can retreat and relax
- Brief your guests: Let them know your pet’s preferences, for example if they dislike being picked up
- Supervise all interactions: Especially when small children or other pets are involved
Dogs who struggle with excitement or overstimulation may benefit from a calming chew or an enrichment toy to keep them occupied while you focus on your guests. For cats, keep doors closed to prevent them from slipping outside or hiding somewhere inaccessible.
Going Away? Plan Pet Care Early
If you’re heading away for Christmas or New Year, arranging quality pet care should be high on your to-do list. Whether you’re visiting family for a few days or taking a winter break, you’ll need to make sure your pets are looked after with care and consistency.
Some owners opt for kennels or catteries, but these can be stressful environments particularly for cats or more sensitive dogs. In-home care is often a more comforting and flexible option, allowing pets to remain in their own environment with minimal disruption to their routine.
To prepare:
- Book in advance: Pet care services get booked up quickly in December
- Provide clear instructions: Feeding times, medication, personality notes and emergency contacts are all essential
- Keep the routine consistent: The less disruption, the better
- Leave out familiar comforts: Beds, blankets, and toys can all help your pet feel more secure
Even if you’re only going away for a couple of days, the right carer can make all the difference to your pet’s experience and your peace of mind.
Don’t Forget the Hazards
Christmas may be magical for us, but it can be risky for our pets if we’re not careful. Keep an eye out for:
- Chocolate: Toxic to dogs and cats
- Cooked bones: Can splinter and cause internal injuries
- Tinsel and ribbon: Dangerous if swallowed, particularly for curious cats
- Alcohol and rich foods: Even small amounts can cause digestive issues
- Decorative plants: Poinsettias, mistletoe and holly are all toxic to pets
It’s also worth securing your Christmas tree to prevent tipping, and keeping baubles and fairy lights well out of reach of playful paws.
Need Support Over the Holidays?
Whether you’re staying close to home or planning a getaway, it’s reassuring to know that someone can be there to care for your pet with the same love and attention you would give. That’s where we come in.
At Paw Pals West Oxfordshire, we’re offering cat feeding services over the Christmas period, which is ideal for owners who want to keep their cats relaxed and comfortable at home, even when they can’t be there in person.
From Witney to Woodstock, Burford to Enstone, and now Chipping Norton, we’re here to support you and your pets throughout the holidays with consistent, reliable care. Get in touch to find out more about how we can look after your feline friends over the Christmas period.