Let’s discuss SHP’s Best Toys For Cats and Dogs 2024! Selecting the right toy for your pet is more than just picking something cute. It’s about ensuring safety, promoting mental stimulation, and supporting your pet’s health. I recently saw this New York Times article about the best dog toys according to our pups; here’s a list according to your favorite dog walker and pet sitter in the Connecticut Shoreline – me! I mostly share how to choose the perfect toy that keeps your furry friend entertained and safe. After all, there is no one-size-fits-all for enrichment and playtime.
Species-Specific Toys
Not all toys are created equal, and what works for a dog might be dangerous for a cat or small animal. Consider these species-specific guidelines:
Cats
- Interactive toys that mimic hunting behaviors; they make rechargeable toys that mimic the movement of a mouse and provide the opportunity for independent play and movement
- Lightweight options for batting and chasing like the classic pompom balls and mice you find at the grocery store
- Toys that encourage climbing and jumping like shelves, cat trees, and cat condos; if you’ve got the budget for it, check out Catastrophic Creations
- Variety of textures and sounds including bird toys that make bird sounds and catnip toys
- Wand toys to get them jumping and chasing
While they are popular, we advise you to stay away from laser toys for cats because they can prove frustrating. Nothing is more annoying than chasing something that isn’t there. If you do use a laser toy, always end the play with a yummy treat so your pet feels like he or she accomplished the hunt.
Dogs
- Choose toys based on size and chewing style
- Aggressive chewers need more durable options and should be supervised, even with chew-resistant toys
- Consider breed-specific play preferences like fetching with a Chuckit! vs. hunting a soft toy that resembles prey
- Puzzle toys and enrichment-based treat dispensers for mental stimulation; just be careful you don’t drop the treat dispensers because they are hard plastic and may break
- Different textures and sounds for sensory engagement; think of crinkle toys, rubber toys, and soft toys as well as chew toys with squeakers and snack toys that facilitate chewing like the WOOF Pupsicle
Fun tip: If you or anyone in your family dislikes the sound of squeakers, check out these ultrasonic squeaker toys that only your dogs can hear squeaking.
What to Look For
Quality
- Non-toxic materials
- BPA-free plastics
- Natural rubber or fabric
- Veterinarian-approved materials
- Durable construction
Safety
- No small, detachable parts
- Avoid potential choking hazards
- Reinforced seams
- No sharp edges
- Appropriate weight and size
Preventing Choking and Intestinal Blockage
- Measure toy against pet’s mouth size, if the toy can go in the mouth fully, it’s too small and may be a hazard
- Regularly inspect toys for wear and tear
- Replace damaged toys immediately
- Supervise initial play sessions
- Remove strings, buttons, or loose attachments
- Supervise pets when they are playing or chewing, especially when you’ve given them new toys
- Remove toys if you see pets ingesting any of the parts or pieces
Also, avoid tennis balls because they can cause tooth enamel damage.
Toy Cleaning and Maintenance
- Easy-to-clean toys to prevent bacterial growth
- Machine washable fabric toys
- Dishwasher-safe rubber toys
- Smooth surfaces for quick wipe-downs
- Avoid porous materials
Warning signs of unsafe toys
- Loose stuffing
- Cheap, easily torn materials
- Strong chemical odors
- Painted surfaces that chip
- Toys not designed for pets
Remember, no toy is 100% indestructible. Always supervise playtime and regularly inspect toys for signs of wear. Your attentiveness ensures safe, fun playtime for your beloved companion.
Expert Recommendations
• Rotate toys to maintain interest
• Match toy to pet’s age and activity level
• Consider individual pet’s play style
• Invest in quality over quantity
Budget Considerations
• Quality doesn’t always mean expensive but it often is the case with pet toys
• Look for sales at reputable pet stores both in the CT Shoreline and online
• Consider durability vs. initial cost because many expensive toys offer long-term value
Choosing the right toy is an investment in your pet’s physical and mental well-being. By prioritizing safety, species-specific design, and quality construction, you’re not just buying a toy—you’re providing enrichment, exercise, and joy.
Playtime with the Connecticut Shoreline Best Pet Care
At Shoreline Happy Paws, playtime is a key part of our job. We love to see pets thriving with the right toys, practicing biologically appropriate hunting behaviors, and just having fun. If your pet has a favorite toy you’d like us to use during dog walks or pet sits, please let us know. We are happy to make playtime extra special.
We are accepting new dog walking, dog hiking, and cat sitting clients! New Shoreline Happy Paws clients can create an account. We will be in touch to further discuss your needs and set you, your family, and your cat(s) up for success. Existing clients may book services by logging in to your client profile.
Shoreline Happy Paws serves the following areas of the Connecticut Shoreline:
- Old Saybrook
- Essex, Ivoryton & Centerbrook
- Deep River
- Chester
- Westbrook
- Clinton
- Old Lyme
- East Lyme
- Niantic
Certain Parts and Certain Service Hours in:
- Lyme and Madison
- Waterford, New London, Groton
- Uncasville, Gales Ferry, Mystic, Noank
