Valentine’s Day is full of flowers, chocolates, candles, and cozy celebrations. While it’s meant to be a sweet holiday, it can also bring an increase in emergency visits for pets. Many traditional Valentine’s Day items pose hidden risks, and pets are often exposed when routines change or guests are around.
At Tell Tail Veterinary Urgent Care, we tend to see similar types of emergencies every February. Knowing what to watch for can help you act quickly if something goes wrong.
Chocolate and Candy Ingestion
Chocolate is one of the most common reasons pets are brought in around Valentine’s Day. Dark chocolate, baking chocolate, and cocoa powder are especially dangerous, but even milk chocolate can cause problems depending on the amount and the pet’s size.
Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, rapid heart rate, tremors, or seizures. In general, inducing vomiting (under veterinary supervision) can be effective within about one hour of ingestion, so time is critical. If you suspect your pet has eaten chocolate or sugar free candy containing xylitol, seek veterinary care right away.
To avoid accidental ingestion, keep all candy bowls, gift bags, and wrappers well out of reach, especially during parties or gatherings. Opt for pet-safe treats instead, like commercial dog or cat treats or small pieces of plain, cooked meat with no seasoning. If chocolate is part of the celebration, make sure it stays sealed and supervised.
Flower and Plant Toxicity
Bouquets are everywhere on Valentine’s Day, and many popular flowers can be harmful to pets. True lilies are extremely toxic to cats and can cause kidney failure even from small exposures such as licking pollen or drinking vase water.
Dogs may experience vomiting, drooling, or gastrointestinal upset from chewing on certain flowers or greenery. Pets that suddenly show signs of illness after being around floral arrangements should be evaluated as soon as possible.
When receiving bouquets, place them in areas pets cannot access and immediately discard any fallen petals or leaves. If you have cats at home, consider choosing non-toxic flowers or artificial arrangements instead. Pet-safe greenery or silk flowers can give the same festive look without the risk.
Foreign Body Ingestion
Ribbons, wrapping paper, cellophane, balloon strings, and gift packaging may seem harmless but are common causes of intestinal blockages. Pets often chew or swallow these items when left unsupervised.
Signs include vomiting, loss of appetite, lethargy, abdominal pain, or straining to defecate. Linear objects such as ribbon or string can be especially dangerous and should never be pulled from a pet’s mouth or rectum.
Clean up wrapping materials promptly after gifts are opened, as strings and ribbons are especially dangerous if swallowed. Shredded paper and bows may look fun to play with but can quickly turn into an emergency. Additionally, many pets cannot tell the difference between their toys and gifts. Keep plush toys and stuffed animals stored away unless you are actively supervising your pet. If you want to include your pet, choose toys designed specifically for pets that are size-appropriate and durable.
Alcohol Exposure
Alcoholic beverages, spilled drinks, and even dessert items containing alcohol can be dangerous for pets. Because pets are much smaller than people, even small amounts can cause intoxication.
Symptoms may include disorientation, vomiting, low body temperature, slowed breathing, or collapse. Any suspected alcohol ingestion warrants prompt veterinary evaluation.
Burns and Injuries from Candles
Candles and wax warmers can lead to burns on noses, paws, or whiskers. Curious pets may knock candles over, creating a fire risk or ingesting melted wax. Facial burns and singed whiskers are surprisingly common during candle heavy holidays.
Always place candles on stable surfaces away from curious noses, wagging tails, or jumping cats. Battery-operated LED candles are a great alternative that still create a cozy atmosphere without the burn or ingestion risk. Never leave open flames unattended when pets are in the room.
When to Seek Urgent Care
If your pet may have ingested something toxic, is vomiting repeatedly, seems painful, lethargic, or is acting unusually, it is safest to have them evaluated as soon as possible. For many toxin exposures, early intervention makes a significant difference. If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, call the ASPCA Pet Poison Control ((888) 426-4435) and head to your nearest veterinary clinic right away.
Tell Tail Veterinary Urgent Care is open Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 6 PM for walk-in urgent concerns. If your pet needs care outside of our hours, please contact your nearest emergency veterinary hospital.
A little extra caution with holiday items can go a long way in keeping Valentine’s Day safe for everyone in your household, pets included.
