Britain’s pets won’t be left off the Christmas list this year – but here’s how to keep them safe

Petplan, the UK’s no.1 pet insurer, highlights the significant role pets play in holiday celebrations with a new survey. From festive feasts to family photos, Britain’s cats and dogs are set to enjoy a very merry Christmas this year, showcasing just how much the nation includes pets in their holiday festivities.

The survey of 2,000 pet owners found that one in two (50%) will be buying presents for their pets this year, with dog owners proving slightly more generous than cat lovers – 52% versus 45%.

And while Father Christmas might be busy filling stockings for the kids, pet parents are doing the same for their four-legged family members. On average, UK pet owners will spend £37 on gifts for their animals this Christmas – with dogs again coming out on top. Dog owners spend an average of £42, compared to £28 for cats.

Pets at the heart of Christmas traditions

From receiving gifts to joining the family photo, it’s clear that pets are considered part of the festivities:

• 50% receive their own gifts or stockings

• 49% make an appearance in family photos

• 42% are treated to special Christmas meals

• 37% have their names included in Christmas cards

  
  

Dog owners are particularly enthusiastic about involving their pets. Over half (55%) include them in family photos, compared to just 36% of cat owners, and nearly half (46%) take their dogs on special Christmas walks or outings.

The gifts pets love most

So, what’s on the wish list for our four-legged friends this Christmas?

The most popular pet gifts are treats and speciality food (64%), followed by toys (60%) and beds or blankets (28%). Personalised presents such as engraved bowls or name tags (20%) and grooming products (18%) are also high on the list.

Gifting habits also change with age. 67% of owners buy toys for younger animals, compared to 35% for older pets, while cosy beds and blankets are much more common for senior companions.

Younger owners are the biggest spenders, with Gen Z (£44) and Millennials (£46) leading the way.

Managing pet stress over the holidays

For many owners, the festive season also brings challenges – from travel plans to busy households. When owners head away for Christmas:

• 39% rely on family for pet care

• 22% ask friends

• 21% take their pets with them when staying with relatives

• 14% say they wouldn’t travel if it meant leaving their pet behind

  
  

Top hazards to watch out for this Christmas

And while Christmas is full of sparkle, decorations and tempting food, owners are keeping one eye on safety.

• 53% are aware of the dangers of toxic foods such as chocolate, grapes and onions

• 45% worry about decorations or small items being swallowed

• 41% are mindful of the stress and anxiety that noise or visitors can cause

  
  

Owners of younger pets are the most worried about festive hazards – typically because younger cats and dogs are more curious, more energetic and more likely to nibble or chew. In December 2024, Petplan received claims of over £327,000 for chocolate, raison or grape poisoning incidents.

Petplan Vet, Brian Faulkner says: “Christmas is such a special time for families, and that includes the four-legged members too. A few small precautions can make all the difference - keeping treats out of reach, providing a quiet space if the house gets busy, and watching out for decorations that pets may chew or swallow. With a little planning, pets can enjoy a relaxed and happy Christmas right alongside us.”

Petplan’s top tips for a safe and stress-free Christmas

To help keep animals happy and healthy over the holidays, Petplan shares its top five festive safety tips:

1. Create a calm space: Give your pet a quiet room away from noise and guests.

2. Keep toxic foods out of reach: Chocolate, grapes, onions and mince pies are best left to humans.

3. Sweep up pine needles: Real Christmas trees can drop sharp, mildly toxic needles.

4. Avoid dangling decorations: Baubles and ribbons can pose a choking hazard.

5. Secure fairy lights: Keep electrical cords safely away from curious paws and playful tails.

   
   

And if the unexpected does happen, Petplan’s pet insurance can offer added peace of mind – come rain, snow or shine.

Win a prize this Christmas

To spread some extra festive cheer, Petplan is giving pet owners the chance to win prizes every day in the lead-up to Christmas with the Petplan Advent Calendar. Running from 1st to 24th December, it’s the perfect way to treat yourself (and your pet) this holiday season.