BVA Issues Festive Hazards Warning
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) is asking vets to urge owners to make sure their pets are safe over the Christmas season. Common features of the season, such as certain foods, can be extremely dangerous and Christmas decorations are a common cause of injury or even death.
The BVA is advising that owners keep their pets away from foods which are toxic to them (such as chocolate), and that other potentially hazardous objects (such as electrical cables, Christmas decorations and batteries) should be treated with care.
It is also advised that a pet should be microchipped if the owner is taking it travelling away from home so that reuniting the pet with the owner can be done easily in event of separation. Furthermore, the upheaval and excitement of Christmas can caused animals to get stressed and nervous, so arranging a quiet safe haven away from all the fuss is also recommended.
Carl Padgett, President of the British Veterinary Association, said:
“Christmas is a time for families and we’re reminding pet owners it’s also time to remember the health and welfare of their animals too. Our message to pet owners is don’t ruin your Christmas through carelessness. The loss or illness of a family pet is devastating but poisoning in the home can be easily avoided.”
1. Substances which can be poisonous to pets include:
Chocolate and liquorice (common Christmas gifts).
Raisins and sultanas (used in Christmas cake recipes).
Certain nuts (especially peanuts and Macadamia nuts).
Xylitol-sweetened foods.
Sweets.
Other foods such as onions, avocados and grapes.
Alcohol.
Plants including lilies (and daffodils).
Cleaning and DIY products e.g. white spirit and lubricating oils.
Car anti-freeze.
Human medicines.
2. Substances with low toxicity that could cause drooling, vomiting or diarrhoea include:
Blu-tack or other similar adhesives (used to put up decorations).
Charcoal and coal.
Cut-flower and houseplant food.
Expended polystyrene foam (used for large present packing eg stereos/TVs).
Holly, mistletoe and poinsettia (common Christmas plants/decorations).
Matches.
Wax candles and crayons.
Silica gel (found in packaging).
Vets and members of the public can request hard copies of the leaflet by emailing bva-awf@bva.co.uk
The BSAVA has opened submissions for the BSAVA Clinical Research Abstracts 2026.
