Christmas is a lovely time of year. The lights go up, the house smells like dinner from mid-morning, and there’s always someone calling in “just for a quick one”.
For pets though, it can be a very confusing few weeks. Suddenly their quiet house is full of people, strange noises, unfamiliar smells, and routines that go out the window completely. It’s no wonder some pets spend half of December wondering what on earth is going on.
The good news is that with a bit of awareness (and a bit of patience), you can help your pets get through the festive season without too much stress — and maybe even enjoy it.
When the House Gets Busy
One of the biggest changes for pets at Christmas is the constant activity. Doors opening and closing, kids running about, visitors arriving with bags and coats — it can all feel a bit much.
Dogs might get overexcited or anxious, hovering around guests or barking at every sound. Cats often take the opposite approach and disappear entirely, only emerging once the coast is clear. Neither reaction is bad behaviour — it’s just their way of coping with the disruption.
Giving your pet a quiet space to retreat to can make a world of difference. A back room, a cosy bed under the stairs, or even just their usual spot with the door closed can help them feel like they still have somewhere that’s “theirs”.
Decorations, Trees and Temptation
Christmas decorations are great fun — unless you’re a pet, in which case they look like toys, snacks, or something to climb.
Tinsel, baubles, fairy lights and tree water can all cause problems if chewed or swallowed. Cats are especially fond of anything that dangles, while dogs rarely say no to something new on the floor.
If you can, keep decorations higher up, avoid glass ornaments near ground level, and unplug lights when you’re not around. It might not look like the magazine photos, but it’ll save you a panicked trip to the vet.
Food, Glorious Food (But Not for Pets)
Christmas food is another big one. Between chocolates, mince pies, stuffing, gravy, ham, turkey bones and leftovers, there are plenty of things that smell amazing to pets but can make them seriously ill.
Dogs in particular have a talent for appearing out of nowhere the second food is unattended. Cats may be fussier, but even they can be tempted by rich smells they don’t usually encounter.
It’s worth reminding visitors — gently — not to feed pets from the table, no matter how convincing the begging looks. A few extra treats made for pets are fine, but human food is best kept well out of reach.
Noise, Bells and Sudden Excitement
Between doorbells, music, laughter and the odd raised voice during board games, Christmas can be noisy. Some pets take it in their stride; others find it overwhelming.
If your pet seems unsettled, putting on some soft background noise in their quiet space can help. A radio or TV at a low volume can mask sudden sounds and help them relax.
It’s also okay to limit interactions. Pets don’t need to meet everyone, and they certainly don’t need to be passed around like part of the entertainment. Let them choose when — or if — they want to join in.
Trying to Keep a Bit of Routine
One of the best things you can do for pets at Christmas is keep parts of their normal routine going. Feeding times, walks, medication, and bedtime rituals all help ground them when everything else feels different.
Even small things — like a familiar walk route or a quiet cuddle before bed — can help your pet feel secure during a busy period.
And if you’re heading away, working longer hours, or hosting a house full of people, having someone reliable step in can be a huge relief. Pets cope far better when familiar routines continue, even if their favourite humans are temporarily distracted.
When Christmas Is Over
You might notice your pet is extra tired, clingy, or even a bit off once the festivities wind down. That’s normal. Christmas can be exhausting for them too.
A few calm days, regular walks, and returning to normal schedules usually bring everything back to balance. Just like us, they sometimes need a breather after all the excitement.
A Christmas Thought from Pet Angel Sitters
Christmas doesn’t have to be perfect — for people or pets. What matters most is that your animals feel safe, comfortable, and cared for while the madness unfolds around them.
Whether you’re heading out for a few hours, away for a few days, or just need a helping hand during the busy season, Pet Angel Sitters are here to make sure your pets enjoy a calm, cosy Christmas too.
Because for them, the best part of the season isn’t the decorations or the dinner — it’s knowing they’re loved and looked after, no matter what time of year it is.
