The holidays are a time for beautiful decorations, but for pet owners, the festive season often introduces hazards like toxic plants, tempting electrical wires, and breakable ornaments. You don’t have to sacrifice style for safety. Here’s how to create a festive home that still feels calm, safe, and stylish.
1. Choose Shatter-Proof Ornaments
Glass ornaments might look beautiful, but they can be dangerous if knocked off a tree or table.
Instead, use:
- Plastic
- Felt
- Wooden
- Fabric-based ornaments
These still look beautiful, but they won’t shatter if your cat swats one or your dog bumps into the tree.
2. Secure Your Christmas Tree (Or Holiday Tree)
Trees naturally attract pets. They look like giant toys.
To make them safer:
- Use a heavy tree base
- Avoid fragile decorations at the bottom
- Anchor the tree using clear fishing line attached to a wall hook or curtain rod
- consider a pet gate or barrier around the base for extra security, preventing tips and climbs
Pet-safe decorating isn’t about hiding the tree — it’s about making it stable.
3. Use Flameless Candles Instead of Real Ones
Real candles feel cozy, but they’re risky around curious tails and whiskers.
Try:
- LED candles
- Battery-powered fairy lights
- Lantern-style lights
You get the warm glow without the fire risk.
4. Be Careful With Holiday Plants
Some traditional holiday plants can be toxic to pets.
Avoid placing within reach:
- Poinsettias
- Mistletoe
- Holly
Pet-safe alternatives:
- Faux greenery
- Pet-safe plants
- Real pine branches displayed out of reach
5. Keep Tinsel and Ribbons to a Minimum
Shiny, stringy decorations are very attractive to pets — and dangerous if swallowed.
If you love the look:
- Use tinsel only high on the tree
- Avoid loose ribbons
- Choose wide, stiff decorative ribbons instead of thin curling ones
This keeps your décor looking polished and keeps pets safe.
6. Create a “Pet-Safe Zone” in Your Living Space
Holidays bring noise, visitors, and new smells. Pets can get overstimulated.
Set up a small holiday-proof corner with:
- Their bed
- Favorite toy
- Water bowl
- A blanket that smells like home
This gives them a calm escape area while the rest of the home feels festive.
7. Use Elevated Decorating to Your Advantage
Use height to your advantage when placing décor.
Safer decorating habits:
- Use wall shelves for breakables
- Avoid floor-level figurines
- Keep gift wrap tools stored away
Your décor will look cleaner and your pets will stay out of trouble.
8. Think Soft, Cozy, and Natural
Pet-friendly décor tends to be:
- Soft
- Neutral
- Textured
- Non-breakable
Think:
- Knit throws
- Soft pillow covers
- Wooden garlands
- Fabric stockings
These items create warmth without creating hazards.
Final Thoughts
Pet-safe decorating isn’t about removing the magic from the holidays — it’s about bringing that magic into your home in a way that works for everyone.
With thoughtful choices, soft textures, and safer placements, your home can feel festive, beautiful, and calm for you and your pets.