Christmas and Cats

Christmas is a favorite holiday for many, especially bakers. Some cat owners may be tempted to feed small amounts of holiday treats to their feline friends; but be advised, sugar can make cats very sick and cause complications.

Let's look at chocolate, for example. Cats eating chocolate can cause abnormal heart rhythms because of the high dose of sugar; tremors and seizures. Chocolate can even be lethal to cats. 

Most TV programs show people giving milk saucers to cats; but this is actually a bad idea for cats. Most cats are lactose-intolerant and their digestive systems cannot handle the dairy in milk or processed foods (like chocolate). It can lead to upset stomachs or diarrhea. 

This should go without saying, but keep alcoholic beverages away from cats at all times. 

When you are making tiramisu, keep cats away from coffee or any other caffeine products. Caffeine, from the cocoa bean, can speed up heart rates and  cause muscle tremors. The stimulant is too much for a kitten.

When baking for Christmas, keep these items away from cats to have a safe holiday for pets.