🦃 Keep Human Food Off the Menu

Toxic foods to avoid:

Turkey bones and skin:

These can cause choking or digestive blockages. The skin may also be seasoned with garlic, onions, or other spices harmful to cats.

Stuffing and gravy:

Ingredients like onions, garlic, and rich fats can upset your cat’s stomach or even lead to serious conditions like pancreatitis.

Desserts:

Chocolate and artificial sweeteners like xylitol are toxic to cats, and sugary treats aren’t good for their health.

What to share instead:

Treat your cat to their own Thanksgiving feast with a small portion of plain, cooked turkey (no seasoning).

🍁 Create a Quiet Space

Thanksgiving gatherings can overwhelm even the most social cats. Set up a quiet, cozy room with their bed, litter box, and water bowl to provide a retreat from the noise. Add a favorite toy or some calming cat music to make it extra soothing.

🕯️ Watch Out for Decorations

Cats are naturally curious, so those festive candles, floral centerpieces, and table settings can become irresistible playthings. Keep potentially dangerous items out of reach:

Candles: Opt for flameless ones to avoid accidents.

Plants: Some Thanksgiving plants, like lilies, are toxic to cats. Stick to cat-safe greenery.

Tinsel and ribbons: If swallowed, these can cause serious intestinal issues.

🚪 Monitor Doors and Guests

With guests coming and going, doors may not always be securely closed. Cats can dart out unnoticed, especially if they’re startled. Use these precautions:

Inform guests about your cat’s indoor-only status.

Create a rule to check that exterior doors are shut behind them.

Consider using a collar with an ID tag or a microchip to ensure your cat can be identified if they escape.

🐾 Monitor Stress and Behavior with Moggie

Thanksgiving changes your cat’s usual routine, and Moggie’s Activity Tracker can help you monitor their stress levels during the holiday. Check their activity, sleep, and eating habits for signs of stress or anxiety, and adjust their environment to keep them calm.

🎁 Treats for Bonding

Thanksgiving is a perfect opportunity to spend quality time with your cat. Dedicate a few moments to play with their favorite toy or offer them a special catnip treat to share the holiday cheer in a safe way.