Keep your pets safe this holiday season by following these tips:

1. If you have a live tree, make sure that you cover the water in the base so that your pets can't drink it. The pine sap and chemical additives used to extend tree life are dangerous if ingested.  Clean up fallen pine needles frequently as these can be toxic if swallowed.
2. Secure your tree so that it won’t fall if curious cats climb the branches.
3. Clean up all ribbons, and tinsel, and keep these decorations high enough that they are out of reach as they can block intestines if they are eaten by your pets.
4. If your cats are attracted by the sparkle of glass ornaments keep them high on the tree out of reach.
5. Purchase pet safe extension cords or spray the cords with bitter apple to prevent pets from chewing them.
6. Keep gifts containing food off the floor so that pets won’t be tempted to break into them.
7. Lilies, poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe leaves and berries can cause poisoning, vomiting, or diarrhea. Keep all of these out of your pets' reach, or don't buy them.
8. Don’t be tempted to feed your pets table scraps as high fat or high sugar foods can cause gastro-enteritis.
9. Don’t let pets eat chocolate, or foods containing garlic or onions, coffee, and definitely don’t feed them alcohol. Educate your guests to be sure they keep these poisons out of reach of your pets.
10. Burning great smelling candles is popular during the holidays. Keep open flames away from areas where curious kitty can reach. Cats brushing against candles can set their fur on fire.
11. Minimize stress on your pets by giving them a quiet area of the house when large groups friends or family visit your home.
12. Don’t give pets as holiday gifts. If you want a great gift for an animal lover give them pet toys, pet supplies, or gift certificates to pet stores... or better yet - donate to an animal charity on their behalf.

More resources:

1. Pet Poison Safety Tips For the Holiday Season
2. Pet safety tips for a happy holiday season
3. Holiday safety for your pets
4. Winter Holiday Pet Safety Tips
5. Pet safety during the holidays