Hidden Hazards to Avoid on Thanksgiving When You Have Maine Coon Cats (or Any Cats)

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and festivity, but it can also be a minefield of potential hazards for your feline friends. Maine Coon cats, known for their curious and playful nature, may be even more likely to explore areas they shouldn’t. From dangerous foods to household décor, here’s how to keep your cats safe this Thanksgiving.

1. Toxic Thanksgiving Foods

Your Maine Coon’s irresistible charm might tempt you to share your feast, but many Thanksgiving staples are harmful—or even toxic—for cats. Keep these off their menu:

• Turkey Bones and Skin: While plain, cooked turkey meat is safe in moderation, bones can splinter and cause choking or internal injuries, and skin can be too fatty, leading to pancreatitis.

• Stuffing and Seasonings: Stuffing often contains garlic, onions, and other herbs or spices that are toxic to cats.

• Gravy: Gravy is high in fat and salt, which can upset your cat’s digestive system.

• Mashed Potatoes: If they contain butter, cream, or garlic, they’re a no-go for cats.

• Desserts: Chocolate, artificial sweeteners (like xylitol), and alcohol found in many Thanksgiving desserts can be extremely toxic to cats.

Instead, consider preparing a small, plain piece of cooked turkey as a special treat, free of seasoning and sauces.

2. Decorations and Table Settings

Festive decorations can pose unexpected risks to your Maine Coon. Watch out for:

• Candles: Curious cats may swat at open flames, risking burns or starting a fire. Use flameless LED candles for a safer alternative.

• Tablecloths and Runners: A playful tug could send hot food, heavy dishes, or candles crashing to the floor. Secure table linens to avoid accidents.

• Seasonal Plants: Common Thanksgiving plants like chrysanthemums, amaryllis, and lilies are toxic to cats if ingested. Keep these out of reach or opt for cat-safe alternatives.

3. Garbage and Food Scraps

Overflowing trash cans are like treasure chests to an adventurous Maine Coon. However, they can contain dangerous items such as:

• Turkey bones

• Plastic wrap or aluminum foil (which can cause blockages if ingested)

• String from turkey trussing

• Food scraps containing toxic ingredients

Make sure trash bags are securely tied, and garbage cans have tight-fitting lids to prevent rummaging.

4. Guest Hazards

Thanksgiving often means a full house, and while your Maine Coon may enjoy the extra attention, guests can unknowingly create risks:

• Open Doors: With guests coming and going, there’s a higher chance your cat could slip outside. Consider setting up a quiet, secure room where your cat can retreat during the festivities.

• Dropped Food: Children or unaware guests may accidentally drop or feed unsafe foods to your cat. Politely remind everyone not to share their plates with your furry friend.

• Stress and Overstimulation: Maine Coons are social, but even they can feel overwhelmed by too much noise or activity. Make sure they have a calm space to relax away from the chaos.

5. Holiday Kitchen Safety

The kitchen is the heart of Thanksgiving, but it’s also full of dangers for curious cats:

• Hot Surfaces: Cats may jump onto countertops where hot pans or dishes are resting. Keep hot items away from the edges and monitor your cat closely.

• Sharp Objects: Knives, peelers, and other sharp tools should be kept out of reach, as cats may paw at or knock them off counters.

• Spills: Clean up any spills promptly, especially if they involve grease or harmful foods.

6. Alcohol and Beverages

Be vigilant about keeping alcohol away from your Maine Coon. Even small amounts of alcohol can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or more severe issues like respiratory failure. Similarly, keep coffee, tea, and other caffeinated drinks out of reach, as these can be toxic to cats.

7. Stringy Hazards from Decorations

Maine Coons are known for their playful, mischievous behavior, and shiny or dangling decorations can be especially tempting. Watch out for:

• Tinsel and Ribbons: If ingested, these can cause serious intestinal blockages.

• Twine or String: Used for cooking or decorating, these are dangerous for the same reason.

Dispose of stringy materials immediately after use, and keep an eye on any gift-wrapping or decorative displays.

How to Keep Your Cat Safe This Thanksgiving

• Secure a Safe Space: Create a quiet, comfortable space with food, water, and a litter box where your cat can retreat if they feel overwhelmed.

• Educate Guests: Let your guests know which foods are off-limits for your cat and how to safely interact with them.

• Supervise and Distract: Keep an eye on your Maine Coon during busy moments and provide toys or cat-safe treats to keep them occupied.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving is a time to be grateful for the loved ones in your life—including your Maine Coon! By staying aware of these hidden hazards, you can ensure your cat stays safe and happy during the holiday. With a little preparation and care, you and your feline friend can enjoy a festive, worry-free Thanksgiving.

From all of us at Safe Harbour, have a happy and safe Thanksgiving with your furry family members!