12/06/2024
Common pet toy hazards to watch for when stuffing your pet’s holiday stocking
Look for any choking hazards. Buttons, bells, feathers, pom poms, decorations that a pet could remove. Not only can these things become a choking hazard, but it could also cause intestinal blockage if ingested. Toys with decorations are cute but can be a danger in disguise.
String, ribbon and yarn can not only become an intestinal blockage if ingested, but there is also the risk of strangulation. Use string toys under strict supervision.
Look for stuffing -free toys. Toys stuffed with batting, foam, beads…can also pose as a choking hazard, along with ingesting can cause intestinal blockages.
Squeaky toys can be real fun, but make sure they are tough enough and supervise your fur baby to make sure they don’t tear the toy open and ingest the squeaker.
Avoid toys that can splinter: wood, some plastics or bone materials. Splinters can get caught in between teeth, under the tongue, or cut the gums. If swallowed, these splinters can result in injury to the intestine.
Toys with strong chemical or aromatherapy smells can cause irritation to the eyes, mouth, skin. Remember their sense of smell is much greater than ours.
Avoid Battery operated toys. Ingesting a battery can be life threatening.
Knuckle bones, hoofs, antlers, and other animal bone treats can result in broken teeth. Broken off parts can become a choking hazard or an intestinal blockage.
The good old rawhide…is not always so good. They can pose a choking risk along with possible pieces ingested not breaking down and causing the possibility of intestinal blockage.
When choosing toys, make sure the appropriate size for your pet. Small pets should be able to carry the toy without struggling. With a larger pet make sure the toys are large enough that they cannot become a choking hazard.
Puzzle toys are great for keeping your pet busy and can be mentally stimulating.
Dental chews that have the VOHC (Veterinary Oral Health Council) can provide chew time, along with helping prevent tarter. Supervision is still recommended.
Fetch toys are a great way to share time with your pet, along with getting exercise and releasing energy. (Make sure large enough to where there is not a concern of it getting lodged.)