Pet Toys: Everything You Need To Know About Their Importance and Proper Choice
Toys are an important part of pets’ lives, not only because they provide a source of entertainment and exercise but also because they help them develop essential cognitive and physical skills. Additionally, toys can be helpful in relieving pets’ stress and anxiety and strengthening the bond between the owner and their furry companion.
If you have a pet, the most natural thing is to worry about it and take care of its basic needs for food, hygiene, veterinary care, and education. But did you know that play is also one of these needs of your dog or cat? In this article, we present you with important information about the importance of pet toys and how to choose the right one for your four-legged friend.
Why Do Dogs and Cats Need Games?
Both dogs and cats are social animals (yes, cats too, although they do not depend on others for their subsistence), and in a context in which they were with other individuals of their species, they would relate to each other in various ways and one of them is the game.
However, we have them in our homes, and although they love spending time around us, they need more physical and mental stimulation to be healthy. And these stimuli can be easily created when we play with them.
The Importance of Pet Toys
Toys are essential for pets for several reasons, such as:
● Provide entertainment and mental stimulation: Toys can keep pets busy and entertained, which is especially important for animals that spend a lot of time alone at home.
● Promote exercise and physical activity: Toys can encourage pets to move and play, which is important for their health and well-being.
● Encourage cognitive development: Some toys can help pets develop cognitive skills, such as problem-solving and memory.
● Help relieve stress and anxiety: Toys can provide a distraction, help pets relax, and reduce stress and anxiety.
● They strengthen the bond between owner and pet: Playing with toys can help strengthen the relationship between the owner and their pet.
How To Choose the Ideal Toy for Your Pet
When choosing a toy for your pet, it is essential to take into account its age, size, breed, and personality. At Whisker Wonder Store, we have a wide catalog of toys at your disposal.
Here are some tips to help you choose a suitable toy for your furry companion:
● Size: Make sure you choose a toy that is large enough for your pet and that they cannot swallow or choke on it.
● Material: Choose a toy made of safe, durable materials that won’t break easily.
● Breed and Personality: Consider your pet’s breed and personality when choosing a toy. Some dogs prefer toys to chew on, and others prefer to chase or fetch toys.
● Physical activity: If your pet needs more physical activity, choose a toy that encourages activity and exercise, such as a ball the pet can play with at home, in the garden, or the park.
● Age: For puppies, choose soft, safe chew toys. For older dogs, choose toys that are easier to chew and won’t damage their teeth or gums.
How Do I Play With My Pet?
First of all, to play with your pet and enjoy its benefits, you must be with him one hundred percent. What does this mean? Basically, while you are playing with your dog or cat, you are not doing other things: looking at your cell phone, talking to other people, watching TV, etc. Just keep your attention on what you are doing. This will also bring you personal well-being, as it will allow you to disconnect from the stress of your daily life.
On the other hand, make sure you dedicate at least 15 minutes a day to your furry friend. A time that is insignificant for us but can make a difference for them. As for the type of game, it can be very varied. If you have a dog, you can play with him, among other things:
● To throw him the ball and have him return it to you.
● To the “catch-catch”.
● To pull a rope.
● To hide a toy for him and let him find it.
With these games, you can also teach him obedience, rewarding him every time he does it well. For instance, when he returns the ball or toy to you, when he doesn’t run away from you when ordered, when he lets go of the rope when asked, etc.
If you have a cat, the games are less varied but still fun:
● The classic fishing rod, moving it from one side to the other to chase it.
● Throw him a ball (like a dog) and have him throw it back to you.
● Throw a ball at ground level for him to play with.
Each game session should end in a relaxed manner, and the pet should receive a treat as a reward for his “hunt.”
Conclusion
Pet owners often consider all toys suitable for their pets. But this isn’t the case, as the best cat toys may not be the best for dogs. That’s why you need to choose toys from a store with healthy pet products you can select for your furry friend. You can check out the Whisker Wonder Store for the perfect toy and other luxury pet accessories.
