Helping older pets celebrate Christmas 

Including Your Senior Pet in the Christmas Celebrations

The Christmas holidays are a special time for families to gather together. But how can you make sure your older pet enjoys the festivities too? We talked to our Dignipets team and they came up with the following tips.

Presents for Senior Pets

Although many older pets may not play as energetically as they once did, there are still plenty of thoughtful gifts for their Christmas stocking:

• Kong toys can be filled with their favourite treats and frozen beforehand. Many senior pets enjoy lying contentedly whilst licking out the contents—it’s mentally stimulating without being physically demanding.
• Gentle treasure hunts around the house allow older dogs to use their noses without overexertion. Hide small treats in easy-to-reach spots for them to discover.
• Catnip toys are perfect for older cats who prefer gentler play. They can bat and cuddle these at their own pace, rather than leaping after laser pens or wand toys.
• A bird table outside might sound unusual, but it’s a wonderful gift for pets with limited mobility. Many older animals who can’t go out as often find great entertainment watching birds and squirrels throughout the day.

Expecting Visitors?

Consider how your pet copes with the extra noise and activity that Christmas brings. Whilst some older pets adore seeing familiar faces, others find it overwhelming.

• Create a safe space. Set up a quiet den in a calm area of the house where your pet can retreat when needed.
• Use calming aids. Pheromone plug-ins, calming collars, or nutraceuticals can help in the run-up to the big day. Your vet can advise on the best options for your pet.
• Manage access carefully. For older dogs, frequent stair climbing can be risky. A stair gate prevents accidents whilst allowing them to feel part of the household.
• Think about litter trays. Ensure your cat’s toilet area remains accessible and isn’t in a high-traffic zone—most cats prefer privacy!
• Winter weather precautions. Avoid icy patches where older pets could slip, and consider a ramp for doorsteps if your dog has joint issues.
• Stick to routine where possible. Our pets don’t understand it’s Christmas, and changes to their usual schedule can be unsettling.

Older but Not Necessarily Wiser…

The festive season brings numerous hazards. Chocolate, rich Christmas dinner leftovers, and even decorations can pose serious risks. Some older dogs will still eat things they absolutely shouldn’t—age doesn’t always bring wisdom!

• Keep hazards out of reach. Store chocolate, rich foods, and small toys safely away from curious noses.
• Manage children’s enthusiasm. Gently redirect little ones from sharing unsuitable treats. Instead, create a special moment where children can give your pet their own safe Christmas snack.

Veterinary Considerations

• Order medication early. Check your pet’s tablet supply now and place your order with plenty of time to spare. Postal delays and high demand for certain medications are common in December.
• Keep emergency details to hand. Make sure you have your vet’s out-of-hours contact information easily accessible throughout the holiday period.

Support for Pets with Chronic or Terminal Illness

If your pet has a chronic or terminal illness, Dignipets can support you in caring for them during this special time. We’re a mobile veterinary practice in the Midlands specialising in palliative, hospice, and end-of-life care.

We’re available every day over the festive season, 7am–6pm, including Christmas Day, Boxing Day, and New Year’s Day.

For more information, please contact our team on 0333 320 8731 or visit dignipets.co.uk