🎉🥂 New Year's Pet Safety
New Year's Eve parties bring a concentration of foods and substances that are dangerous to pets into one space. Alcohol, grapes, chocolate, and xylitol-containing products are common at celebrations. Keep pets in a secure area away from party guests and food tables.
Top New Year's Hazards for Pets
Alcohol (Champagne, Wine, Beer)
Even small amounts of alcohol can cause vomiting, incoordination, low blood sugar, and potentially fatal respiratory depression in cats and dogs. Never leave unattended glasses accessible.
Grapes & Raisins
Cheese boards, fruit platters, and raisin garnishes are common at New Year's parties. Both grapes and raisins can cause acute kidney failure in dogs.
Chocolate Desserts
Chocolate fondue, truffles, and dark chocolate platters are NYE party staples. Dark chocolate is especially toxic to both dogs and cats.
Xylitol (Sugar-Free Products)
Sugar-free candies, mints, and gum are common at parties. Many contain xylitol, which is extremely toxic to dogs.
Onion & Garlic in Dips/Sauces
Party dips, hummus variations, and canapé toppings may contain onion or garlic powder. Both are toxic to cats and dogs.
Party Poppers & Streamers
Confetti, party poppers, and small plastic pieces can cause intestinal obstruction if swallowed.
How to Keep Your Pets Safe This New Year's
- Put pets in a quiet room away from party guests for their safety and comfort
- Ask guests not to feed pets from their plates
- Designate one person to be 'pet watcher' during the party
- Keep bins secured — post-party food waste is a major hazard
Emergency Steps
Call ASPCA Poison Control: (888) 426-4435 immediately. Don't wait for symptoms. Have the substance packaging available when you call.
- Note what was consumed — type, amount, and time of exposure.
- Call Poison Control — (888) 426-4435, available 24/7.
- Follow their instructions — don't induce vomiting unless advised.
- Get to an emergency vet if instructed or if symptoms are present. Find a 24-hour emergency vet near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Even a small amount of alcohol can be harmful to dogs, especially small breeds. Call Poison Control and monitor closely for vomiting, unsteadiness, and lethargy.
Yes — New Year's Eve is also a high-risk time for noise-phobic pets. The same precautions apply.
Cats are sensitive to alcohol vapors as well as ingested alcohol. Keep them away from spilled drinks and open containers.
Secure pets in a comfortable room with water, their bed, and background music. This protects them from food hazards, noise, and the stress of unfamiliar guests.