Toys Aren't Just for Playing!

I’ll admit it: I’m guilty of spoiling my cats. They have a basket full of toys that I rotate out every so often, and it’s sometimes hard to walk through my home without nearly stepping on a cat toy. But on the other hand, I’ve been to people’s homes where their pets have no toys at all. Though everyone doesn’t have to spoil their pets (which there’s nothing wrong with!...), providing them with toys will actually make them happier and healthier!

Playtime reduces stress and anxiety. Our furry friends are susceptible to stresses just like we are, they’re just a little bit different: seeing animals outside that they can’t chase away from their territory, being home alone, having house guests, adding a new pet to the family, taking a trip to the vet, and more. These stresses can cause anxiety, which can exasperate chronic health programs as well. Stress isn’t good for pets, just like it isn’t good for us!

Pets need exercise, too. How many overweight dogs and cats have you seen (or have)? Providing games and playing with your pets will give them exercise while having fun, and it will help them keep off those extra unwanted pounds.

Dogs and cats get bored, which again can lead to anxiety. Just like we get bored when we do the same thing every single day. Playtime will stimulate their hunting or working instincts and will give them something different to do.

It’s important to rotate your pets’ toys, because pets get tired of playing with the same toys all the time and may lose interest. I can personally vouch for this point—my cats perk up when I rotate out their toys. I just keep the rest in a convenient basket, which I see them rummaging through every now and then.

Playing with your pets gives you some much-needed bonding time. We love when our pets sit by our side, but interacting with them through games will deepen your bond and make you both happier!

Some behavior issues can actually be solved by adding or increasing playtime. If pets are playing too hard, acting more aggressive toward other pets, or keeping you up during the night, they may be telling you that they’re not getting enough playtime during the day.

Cat Toys/Products You Should Have

·      A scratching post: This isn’t a “toy,” but your cats have a natural instinct to scratch, which will keep their nails in good condition while also keeping your furniture in good condition.

·      A cat perch: Or another table surface that’s off the ground and preferably near a window. Happy cats like to perch off the ground at different heights, and they love to be entertained by “cat TV”—a.k.a. the window.

·      Balls, “mice” and/or crinkle toys: You should have at least a few different smaller toys for your cats that you can rotate out. Not all cats like the same types of toys, so try a few and see what they respond to the most.

·      A stuffed animal: Most animals like a comfort toy that they can cuddle with, and some also just like playing with stuffed toys, too.

·      A cardboard box: There’s just something about a cardboard box that’s irresistible to cats! I always throw new boxes in the floor for a few days, which one of my cats never fails to immediately jump in, no matter what she’s doing when I put it on the floor for the first time!

·      Catnip toys: Not all cats like catnip, but those who do love it! You can get toys with catnip inside, dried catnip flakes, or even a catnip plant.

·      A blanket or pet bed: We like sleeping on a cozy bed, and so do your pets! Cats need a good blanket just like the rest of us.

·      These are just a few of the basics, but a visit to the pet store will reveal a whole array of toys that your cats are sure to love!

Dog Toys/Products You Should Have

·      A chew toy: Dogs like to chew, especially puppies, on whatever they can get their mouths on, so a chew toy is a must. Some can also double as a fetching toy.

·      A stuffed animal: Most dogs, like cats, enjoy a comfort toy that they can cuddle with, and some also  like playing with stuffed toys, too. Beware of dogs who tear out the stuffing or squeaker, as they can get choked on these fillers.

·      Tennis balls: Or other balls that you can play fetch with. Frisbees are also a good choice, just be sure the fetching toy isn’t one that your dog can tear up and ingest.

·      Blanket, pet bed or dirty laundry: Dogs like a cozy blanket or bed to lay on, and they even like your dirty shirt to keep your scent close while you’re away from home!

·      Kong toys: Kong toys are great because they’re hard, virtually-indestructible, and you can put peanut putter or other treats inside that they have to work to get out. But it’s fun work!

·      Again, these are just a few ideas—now it’s really time to go to the pet store!

And last, a personal note: As I’m writing this, one of my cats has stolen my pen, smacked it off the couch and onto the floor, and is having fun (the highlighter is probably next!). Looks like it’s time to put down the computer and play with a certain kitty cat!