With so much information and options out there, pet owners might not know where to look for holiday gifts for their four-legged companions. Whether you are looking for toys or looking for special treats, here are some ideas to spread the holiday cheer with your beloved pets.
Toys
There are several different types of toys you can bring home for your pet, and they all serve various purposes. Keep in mind what your pet likes to do and what you think they will find fun and enriching. Just like people, each pet has different tastes!
Puzzle Toys and Snuffle Mats - Puzzle toys are a great way to keep pets mentally active. They are also a great option for pets not as physically active or mobile. Puzzle toys can also be used as a slow-feeding option for fast eaters.
Flirt Poles or Wand Toys - These toys are a great way to engage with your pet during playtime!
Firm Rubber Toys - If hollow, these toys can also be used for treats and enrichment! Make sure the size matches your dog’s to ensure their safety.
Rope Toys - Rope toys are safe if your pet does not shred the strings and possibly ingest them.
Stuffed Toys - Look for durable stuffed toys and avoid ones that have parts that could easily tear off. If your pet likes to shred their toys, this might not be the safest option for ingesting concerns.
Tennis Balls - These are the tried-and-true toys for pets who love to play fetch! However, the fabric and materials can be ripped off tennis balls, so monitor your pet when using them.
Electronic Motion/Interactive Toys - Electronic toys, like robotic mice for cats, are a great way to get your pet moving and allow them to display those predatory instincts.
While looking for chew toys, make sure that you can indent the toy with your thumbnail and that it is pliable. If it is not, the toy is most likely too hard for your pet’s teeth and can cause damage or even crack them. Avoid bones, cow hooves, deer/elk antlers, or chew toys made of plastic or nylon. Items like pig ears, rawhides, and bully sticks can cause an upset stomach and even medical emergencies like becoming stuck in their throats or intestines.
Furniture
All animals love to lounge around at some point throughout the day. Switching up their furniture or adding new pieces to your home can keep things more interesting for them and lounging in style!
Beds - You may already have a few beds for your pets around your house but you can invest in orthopedic beds for aging pets or to simply for an upgrade.
Window Perches - These create additional space at any height for optimal window viewing throughout the day for your feline friend.
Cat Tree/Wall Mounts - These are for those cats who like to climb and have elevated spaces.
Scratching pads and posts - Having plenty of choices throughout your home for scratching can help enhance your cat’s sense of touch and help prevent unwanted scratching on other furniture.
Drinking Fountains - The running water can intrigue cats and encourage drinking/hydration.
Play tunnels - Tunnels can provide enrichment for all sorts of pets. They offer a hiding place, new places to explore, and fun ways to play.
Treats
If you want to make your pet feel extra special, homemade treats can be the perfect way to create something for them with the whole family!
Dogs and Cats - Zoetis has many great recipes for dogs and cats, from blueberry dog treats to catnip, so you can find something delicious and fun to make.
Rabbits - Check out House Rabbit Society’s tips on safe rabbit treats.
Guinea pigs - Some simple recipes for our cavy friends
Although your pet may love these ideas, we know that every pet has something that makes them special and unique that they love to do. Just spending time with you can be the real gift they need this holiday season!