{"id":55663,"date":"2025-12-30T08:35:23","date_gmt":"2025-12-30T06:35:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/balmesvet.com\/?p=55663"},"modified":"2026-02-17T17:28:27","modified_gmt":"2026-02-17T15:28:27","slug":"a-new-years-eve-safety-checklist-for-cats-and-dogs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/balmesvet.com\/en\/a-new-years-eve-safety-checklist-for-cats-and-dogs\/","title":{"rendered":"A New Year\u2019s Eve Safety checklist for cats and dogs"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The last night of the year<\/b> may be a fun-filled celebration for humans, but for many animals it\u2019s a busy night that <\/span>increases the risk of accidents and stress<\/b>: loud noises, exploding fireworks, commotion from humans, open doors, changes in routine, and potentially dangerous food within reach. Every December 31st in Barcelona and beyond, veterinary emergency rooms receive numerous cases related to cats and dogs running away, falling from balconies, food poisonings, and episodes of acute anxiety caused by fireworks.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

How to prepare for a safe New Year’s Eve with your cats and dogs<\/b><\/h1>\n\n\n\n

If you live with a cat or dog, you’re probably wondering how to reduce all these risks and create a safer, more relaxed setting during New Year’s Eve. The most frequent searches by pet owners confirm this: \u201c<\/span>How can I prevent my dog\/cat from being frightened by fireworks?<\/span><\/a>\u201d \u201c<\/span>What Christmas foods are dangerous for my cats and dogs?<\/span><\/a>\u201d \u201c<\/span>How can I prepare a quiet space at home for my pet during Christmas\/New Year’s Eve gatherings?<\/span><\/a>\u201d \u201cWhen should I take my pet to the vet during the holidays?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This blog provides clear and practical answers to all these questions, with guidelines tailored to the realities of the home and the urban context of our city. If you want your pet to have a more peaceful New Year’s Eve, you’re in the right place so keep reading.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n
\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Before the celebration begins: key points for preventing incidents<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Make sure their ID is up to date<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Check that the information on the microchip is still up to date. If your dog goes out for walks during the day, attach a tag with your phone number to its collar. And in the case of cats, keep the carrier handy in case you need to transport them in a hurry.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Adjust your routine on the 31st<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For dogs, take their main walks earlier in the day to avoid going out during the noisiest times. For cats, keep their schedules and surroundings consistent to avoid increasing their stress levels.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Talk to your veterinarian if your cat or dog is afraid of fireworks<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

For pets that are sensitive to noise, it’s helpful to plan ahead to use pheromones, supplements, or medication prescribed by your veterinarian. Most treatments take time to work, so it’s not a good idea to just wing it on the day itself.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Common risks on New Year’s Eve and how to prevent them<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Open doors and risk of escape<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Constant comings and goings increase the chances of your pet running away out of fear. Keep a close eye on the front door and limit their access to high-traffic areas. If you have numerous visitors, prepare a safe room where your pet can stay and not be bothered.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Balconies and windows: preventing falls<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Being startled by sudden loud noises can increase the risk of falls, especially in cats. Close off balconies and windows or use safety nets. Do not trust their usual behavior; fear can change their reactions drastically. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dangerous foods on the New Year’s Eve table<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Keep grapes, chocolate, onions, leeks, sweets containing xylitol, alcohol, cooked bones, and fatty scraps out of their reach. Clear away trays and plates after dinner and tell visitors not to give your dog any food without your permission.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Miscellaneous and small objects<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Toothpicks, corks, tinsel, ribbons, confetti, and small toys can cause digestive blockages or choking. Keep the floor clear and keep trash can lids on.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n
\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n

How to prepare a safe space for your dog<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Set up a quiet room with a bed, blanket, water, chew or lick toys, pheromones, and, if necessary, administer medication as prescribed by your veterinarian. Ensure a quiet atmosphere and avoid constant visitors. Soft music or television can help muffle outside noise.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

How to prepare a quiet refuge for your cat<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Cats do best with hiding places and a stable environment. Prepare a room with a hideaway, a raised bed, an open carrier, a litter box, food, and water. Don’t force them to come out if they hide. Keep visitors from entering and stick to their feeding routine.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Manage visits, music and commotion at home<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Let your guests know that your furry friend might be more sensitive than usual and that it’s important to respect their space. Avoid loud noises and sudden movements. If there are children around, explain to them how to behave so as not to cause unnecessary risks or even more stress.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Key guidelines for dealing fireworks<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Close windows, curtains, and blinds to reduce noise and flashes. Keep your dog or cat indoors before the fireworks start. Avoid walking them around midnight. If you live in a particularly noisy area, consider spending the night in a quieter neighborhood if it doesn’t cause them any additional stress.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/div>\n\n\n
\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n
<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Quick checklist for December 31st<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We’ve put together this comprehensive checklist so you can anticipate the most common risks on the night of December 31st <\/span>to protect the physical and emotional well-being of your pet<\/b>, even on one of the noisiest nights of the year.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Physical safety<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n