5 pet tips for the holiday season.(essential natural health news)

1 Avoid the temptation to tie ribbons around your pet's neck. Pets can choke or hang themselves if ribbons get caught on an object. Also, keep ribbons out of sight to prevent your pet from chewing or swallowing them.

2 A number of seasonal plants can be toxic to pets. Ivy and holly are classified as moderate to very toxic. Mistletoe--especially the berries--is very toxic. For a complete listing of toxic plants, consult the Animal Poison Control Center: www.aspca.org/toxicplants/M01947.htm

3 Christmas trees can pose many dangers to pets. Ingested pine needles can puncture intestines, so try to keep the area free of fallen needles. Tack down your light cords, or run them through PVC piping to prevent pets from chewing on them. Spraying bitter apple spray on wires can also prevent pets from chewing them. Cats find icicles and tinsel irresistible. If they eat this material, it can become wound around their intestines. Angel hair (spun glass) can cause irritation to pets' eyes, skin and gastrointestinal tracts. Bubbling lights, depending on the amount of fluid (methylene chloride) they contain, are moderately toxic to lethal if pets ingest or inhale them. Cats love to climb, and a tree is very tempting. Secure your tree well to prevent a mishap. If possible, purchase a portable exercise pen to enclose the tree. ...