🎄 Christmas

Christmas dangers for cats

UK Christmas is the peak season for cat emergencies. These are the traps — food, plants, decorations, and leftovers.

Content compiled with reference to guidance from the Blue Cross, PDSA, Royal Veterinary College (RVC), Battersea, and Animal PoisonLine. This site does not provide veterinary advice — always consult a vet. Last reviewed: 27 September 2026.

Every December, UK emergency vets see a spike in cat admissions. It's usually one of three things: lilies in a Christmas bouquet, raisins in mince pies or pudding, or tinsel swallowed after an enthusiastic play session.

This page is your Christmas survival checklist — every common UK Christmas cat hazard with the specific advice for each.

The UK Christmas hazard list (20)

Mince pies no Christmas pudding no Christmas cake no Turkey bones no Christmas ham / gammon no Stuffing (sage and onion) no Gravy no Chocolate no Milk chocolate no Dark chocolate no Lilies no Poinsettias caution Mistletoe no Holly no Tinsel no String, ribbon, and thread no Raisins no Sultanas no Currants no Alcohol no

We earn commission from some links below (Amazon Associates, Commission Junction, AWIN). This supports the site at no extra cost to you.

Useful kit for cat owners

AMAZON Cat first aid kit Check Price →
AMAZON Cat water fountain Check Price →
AMAZON Cat grass growing kit Check Price →
AMAZON Vet-approved cat treats Check Price →

If you're worried right now

Call your vet or out-of-hours emergency vet first. For poison advice, the Animal PoisonLine (UK) is on 01202 509000 — 24/7, charges apply. Your vet can also call the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) directly.