Toys. Today we look at a few tips on how to get the correct toys for your pets. Getting the right toys for their needs can save you money, frustration, and possibly even an emergency trip to the vet.
The first thing that comes to mind when buying toys for our pets are: “Will it last?” From there you probably look at the value of the product, and then, like most of us, we are happy to put away a few hundred Rand, if it is going to bring any form of happiness to our beloved furry friend (even if it is only going to last a few minutes!). We buy the product with the hope that it will last forever, with the small reservation that it is ok if it does not last longer than a day or two.
Giving the optimal toy for a specific playful nature is the key to a happy pet. Is your pet a chewer or a chaser?
Here is their guide to buying toys for your furry loved one.
Does your dog like to Chew?
- Medium Chewers : Rope toys, bone-hard chew toys and dental chew toys are all designed for low to medium chewers.
- Aggressive Chewers : Dog toys made of rubber are great for aggressive chewers because of their durability. They’re built to last and give your dog a good chewing workout. Plus, their interesting shapes will cause them to bounce unpredictably for extra fun.
- Moderate to Heavy Chewers : A moderate to heavy chewer will need extreme dog toys that are made for durability and can’t be quickly chewed into bits that could be a hazard to your pet.
- Senior Pets : Soft, smooth and squishy, vinyl or latex toys are great for older dogs because they’re easy on sensitive teeth and gums.
- Avoid : Soft squeaky toys.
Does your dog like to Chase?
Choose retrieving toys that fly or bounce erratically to exercise and entertain your dog without completely tiring you out. Invest in a flying disc made specifically for pets that is constructed with soft plastic or cloth. These are easier on dogs’ sensitive mouth, teeth, and gums, which is especially important for those extra athletic pups that enjoy catching flying discs in mid air! Look for retrieving dog toys constructed with rope that are good for teeth and gums.
Does your Dog like to Carry and Cuddle?
Choose soft toys made of fleece or plush fabric and the more your dog plays with these toys, the more they’ll smell familiar to your pet, making them enjoyable for play over long periods of time. They also make great companions when your dog is in the mood for quiet snuggle time. Soft toys often squeak or make other noises that capture and keep your dog’s attention. If your dog is a Chewer then soft toys will not work as they will be destroyed quickly.
Does your dog like to be Rewarded?
Balls or other shapes designed with hollow areas can be filled with treats. They’re great for keeping your dog occupied for long periods of time, as they usually won’t give up until every last bit of treat is retrieved. You can use moist food or soft dog treats and push them inside the toys. Interactive toys provide both mental as well as physical stimulation. Dog toys that conceal one or more smaller toys are also challenge and reward dogs. Playing with appropriate toys safely occupies the dog’s paws, jaws and mind, it channels pent-up physical and mental energy into something productive instead of destructive.
It also gives the dog “legal” items to play with, distracting the dog from off-limits items such as shoes, plants, furniture etc. Toys can reduce stress, alleviate boredom and loneliness as well as distract and engage dogs who are prone to separation anxiety.
Properly chosen, a good Cat Toy will provide hours of mental stimulation and a valuable way for indoor cats to maintain good physical health.
10 Cat Toys and Games to keep your Cat busy.
1. Boxes – Get Creative make a little cat house, your cat will LOVE it.
2. Laser Pointer – Use with caution and never point at the eyes.
3. Paper Bags – They are cheap and much safer than plastic bags.
4. Feather Wand – Feathers satisfy the “hunting instinct” in a safe way.
5. Furry Mice – These are plentiful and cheap, some even make noises!!
6. String or Twine – What cat can resist reaching out to catch a moving string? just make sure they dont swallow any of it!
7. Cat Tunnels – Great for multiple cat households, Cats love Hide and Seek.
8. Catnip Toys – Most cats will find these toys irresistible, might not effect all cats.
9. Ping Pong Balls – Super light and easy to swat, cheap fun for your kitty.
10. Hair Ties – Cost effective, curious kitties won’t be able to resist. Becareful they dont swallow them!
