The holiday season is in full swing. Before you begin decorating, especially if you are a pet owner, it is best to recognize the hazards that many Christmas, Hanukah or Kwanzaa decorations pose to a dog or cat, and plan accordingly.

Dogs and cats are curious by nature. They explore everything that comes into the house, especially if it is new and shiny. With a little common sense and some planning on your part, your holiday season can be safe for your pet and a little less stressful for you. Here are a few of your pet’s favorite hazards.

Trees. Cats in particular love to climb on Christmas trees and grab the low hanging branches. Make sure the tree is secure in the stand and tie the tree to a permanent fixture, like a railing. A toppled tree can crush a kitten or puppy and the broken ornaments pose problems of their own.

Dogs, especially, love to drink from places like puddles, toilet bowls and Christmas tree stands. If you add a preservative to the water, this could result in vomiting or diarrhea. Pine needles can also cause injury if swallowed.

Tree Ornaments. Shiny low hanging objects have infinite appeal to both cats and dogs. Don’t use glass or ceramic ornaments, especially on the lower branches. Serious injury can occur from swallowing, chewing or stepping on broken glass. Tree lights can be tugged on, pulling the tree over. Lights can also be chewed, resulting in a shock or worse.

Tinsel and Ribbon are known in the Vet world as  “linear foreign bodies” which, if ingested, can result in an emergency surgical situation. If your cat or dog swallows some tinsel, vets warn not to pull the tinsel out of either opening (depending on how long it’s been since the tinsel was swallowed). Pulling the tinsel can cut the animal internally. Instead, bring your pet to the Vet right away. Also, if you must dress your pet up as Santa or a reindeer, just make sure there are no jingle bells on the costume that can be choked on or swallowed.

Holiday Plants. It may be fun to be kissed under the mistletoe, but it will be no fun if your pet gets hold of the plant. Mistletoe and Holly are both extremely poisonous to pets. It is best to keep those plants out of the house entirely. While Poinsettias may give your pet an upset stomach if they are eaten, they are not poisonous, except in extremely large amounts.

Potpourri and Candles. Loose potpourri in bowls may make a room smell like cinnamon, but it is a scent that may smell good to your pet, too. Keep potpourri out of reach, and be careful of holiday candles that pose an obvious fire hazard. If you are fortunate enough to have a working fireplace in your apartment, make sure that the fire screen is sturdy and will not topple over if your pet decides to get too close.

Food. Holiday meals are traditionally rich and high in fats. While you may love your pet and want to share some of your delicious meal with him, resist the urge. Poultry bones can splinter and get stuck in pets’ throats and fatty foods can result in serious intestinal distress. Instead, buy a special pet treat for your cat or dog to enjoy. It will ease your misplaced guilt and your pet will be happier. And remember, no alcohol. There is nothing funny about a drunken cat or dog.

House Guests. During the holiday our homes are often filled with family and friends, many of whom are not familiar with the workings of the household. It is not unusual for a guest to open a door to the outside, or leave a gate open with no thought to your pet. It is important to be vigilant and make sure your guests know that they must be careful not to let your beloved pet run out of the house. Houseguests who are not used to pets may also leave medications on bureaus or countertops where pets can get to them. Make sure everyone knows to keep all meds out of your pet’s reach.

Finally, to your pet the holidays are a confusing mix of noise, people, strange sights, sounds and smells. Make sure your cat or dog has his own space, either a crate or a separate room, to retreat to when it all becomes overwhelming. You and your pet will be happier for it.

This information is not meant to be a substitute for veterinary care. Always follow the instructions provided by your veterinarian. Consult with your veterinarian about other ways to keep your pets safe during the holidays.