As the holidays approach many of us celebrate with giving gifts to friends, family, and even our pets. All gift giving should be done with the recipient in mind, both what they might like and what is appropriate and safe. The first thing to keep in mind when selecting a pet gift is what kind of pet you have. Since dogs and cats are the most common household pets, we’ll focus on them. Most dogs are instinctual chewers and cats love to bat and chase objects around the house. December is “Safe Toys and Gifts Month” so read on for some tips on choosing the safest toys for your furry friends.

Dogs generally love tennis balls, rope toys, and “busy boxes.” They are all great toys for dogs that keep them occupied and allow them to practice their chewing skills. As an added bonus, having a variety of toys available helps dogs to fight boredom and anxiety. Ensure the toy you choose is size appropriate relative to your dog and does not include small removable/breakable parts that your pet could swallow or choke on. Additionally, before giving rawhide-type chew toys, check with your vet’s office to ensure they are safe for your particular dog. As a general rule, hard rubber toys make great chewies while soft stuffed toys provide comfort. However, you should always check the stuffing material to ensure it is pet-safe and digestible to avoid emergency vet visits.

When it comes to cats, the considerations are only a little different. Many cat toys include ribbons or yarn streamers. While cats do love to play with string, it can present a hazard if your kitty ingests it. If you have toys with strings, it’s best to supervise your cat’s play time. Small balls or toy mice with bells inside make a fun toy that can be batted about while making entertaining sounds. Just as with any dog toys, check that the materials the toy is made of are safe for your pet’s digestion and that no small parts can break off and cause a choking hazard. Toys are important to keep your cat’s mind stimulated especially if they are strictly indoor cats so provide a variety of options. Toy mice, fish, or small stuffed animals can all be stuffed or sprinkled with cat nip to provide a little extra excitement.

You know your pet best, so after taking safety into consideration, choose the toys you know your fuzzy pal will love. Finally, the best gift you can give your pet is a healthy, loving home. Don’t forget to make time for them during the busy holiday season. Holiday décor, excited children, and a revolving door of guests can be very stressful. Remember to take some time each day to give your pets special attention and a favorite treat.