If you are like me, my human family and friends will not be the only ones who will get a little extra hospitality from Santa this year. Since my pets are an integral part of this family, they also have stockings that need to be stuffed. In addition to the usual snacks, new toys will replace the forgotten toys they chew.
But no matter what is on your or my shopping list, it is important to make sure that the new toy is safe for cats and dogs. After all, going to the vet quickly is definitely not anyone's wish. Usually, many of us assume that things made for pets are safe. Unfortunately, like many other things we consume or use, this is not always the case.
Toys and regular play time are part of providing a healthy and nurturing environment for pets. Games provide an outlet for energy, mental, and physical stimulation, and increase everyone's chances of making connections. For young, energetic or untrained dogs, interactive games also provide golden opportunities to socialize and teach appropriate and inappropriate behaviors. However, there are many factors that affect the safety or danger of toys. The size and activity level of the animal are some of the factors that determine whether the toy is suitable for the pet. Dogs with long teeth will not play like old pets with frayed teeth. Lively puppies and calm adult dogs crave different toys.
Buying toys for pets is like buying toys for a child who puts everything in his mouth. Catnip-filled mice are common toys for cats, and we know that dogs usually like to tear open a squeaky stuffed "squirrel" inside. Some dogs like to carry or hug soft toys with them, so choose a toy that is large enough to prevent accidental swallowing and strong enough to withstand any dog attacks.
When inspecting plush toys, make sure that they do not contain any dangerous fillers, such as nut shells or polystyrene beads, which may pose a choking hazard. But please note that even fillings that are considered safe are not really easy to digest. If swallowing cotton, polyester, kapok, etc., it may cause blockage of the pet's digestive tract. Of course, fabric toys can still be used, but once the seams begin to open, either remove all the stuffing or replace the toy. I have always been surprised that my dog still likes their favorite toy, without the stuffing and the squeak they have always liked.
Another factor to consider is the environment. Many of the most attractive items for our pets, especially the rich holiday decorations at this time of year, are often the most dangerous things. Some examples are ropes, ribbons, rubber bands, small plastic toys for children, and anything that is easy to swallow. Metal wires, fake "icicles" and cellophane grass used in baskets are also dangerous
You may have heard that the paint used to decorate toys contains lead, cadmium, and mercury, so children's toys have been recalled many times. Although this is a bigger problem with children’s toys, remember that if there are paint patterns on the dog’s toy, the paint will come off. A smarter choice is unpainted chewy bones.
As a reminder, if you are considering giving your dog rawhide chew toys, be sure to consult your veterinarian to find out which toys are safe and suitable for your dog. These toys can pose a choking hazard or cause blockages, so give them only when you can supervise your dog. A safer choice is Nylabone or Kong type products, which are available in a variety of interesting shapes and sizes. These include feeder-type toys that can be filled with snacks. By moving them with their mouth and paws until they get all the good things, dogs can keep themselves busy for several hours. Tennis balls are also great toys, but you also need to be careful to ensure that they are not chewed.
Cats are actually very amused. In fact, a crumpled paper ball, an empty tissue roll, a box, or an opened paper shopping bag can make your cat fascinated for a while. There is really no need to buy toys, but with so many cute toys, it's usually hard to resist buying some. When evaluating toys for your cat, pay attention to the small parts that can be chewed and swallowed.
Fishing rod toys (a long pole, tied with a rope, with feathers or polyester film strips at the end), suitable for cats that only pat them and are supervised while playing. If your cat is a cat that puts everything in its mouth, it can be dangerous. Cats’ tongues are covered with barbs, which makes it difficult for them to spit out ropes, ribbons, yarns, rubber bands and other items. Some cats like to chase the red light of laser toys, but be sure not to shine them in the cat’s eyes because it will hurt them.
By getting to know your furry companions, whether they are super puppies, curious kittens or older souls, you can choose toys that will allow them to spend a safe holiday this season.
Since moving in 2011, Ronnie Casey has been a volunteer at the Tehama County Animal Care Center. She is a retired registered nurse dedicated to helping animals in need in Tehama County. You can contact her at rmcredbluff@gmail.com.
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