Don’t let Fido fetch trouble: 7 hidden pet toy hazards you wouldn’t guess
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Welcoming a new pet to your family marks is a fulfilling and exciting experience, accompanied by substantial responsibilities. Whether your new companion is a lively puppy, a curious kitten, or any other pet, prioritizing their well-being is crucial. While toys make playtime fun, they can be dangerous if not chosen thoughtfully. Here are the common pet toy hazards to watch out for.
Pet Toy Accessories
- Buttons, eyes, feathers, and bells may appear adorable, yet it’s important to note that pets can easily detach and swallow them. These seemingly harmless items pose a risk of choking and can also lead to potential complications such as intestinal blockages or perforations when consumed by pets.
Stuffing Hazards
- Avoid stuffing materials such as polystyrene beads, cotton batting, foam, or nutshells when selecting pet toys. Ingesting these substances results in a considerable risk of causing intestinal blockages, which can lead to severe health issues for your furry friends. However, many stuffing-free pet toys are available, ensuring enjoyment and safety for your beloved companions.
Squeakers
- Pets often enjoy tearing toys, potentially exposing and swallowing squeaker capsules. When opting for toys featuring squeakers, consider those designed with durability. Precautions can go a long way in preventing an unfortunate incident.
Pet owners should closely monitor their pets to prevent the unintended tearing of the toy, which could lead to the ingestion of squeakers. This proactive approach ensures the toy’s longevity and your pets’ safety during playtime.
Splinters
- Hard plastic and wood toys should also be kept away from the pets. Instead, opt for safer alternatives by avoiding hard plastic or wood toys, as these materials are prone to splintering.
Splinters can become lodged between teeth, under the tongue, or even penetrating the gums. If swallowed, these splinters can result in a perforated intestine, emphasizing the importance of choosing toys with pet safety in mind.
Chemical Concerns
- Exercise caution with toys emitting strong chemical odors or aromatherapy elements, as these may pose a chemical risk to your pet. Such toys could irritate or harm a pet’s eyes, nose, and gastrointestinal tract.
Rawhides
- Despite their popularity, rawhides can be chew toys, placing pets at risk of choking and intestinal blockages if ingested. A more mindful approach to pet safety involves exploring alternative chew toy options.
Antlers, Hoofs, or Animal Bones
- These hard objects may result in broken teeth, causing significant pain and potentially leading to tooth root infections that may necessitate surgical removal. Prioritizing your pet’s dental health and comfort is crucial in making informed choices about chew toys.
Tips for choosing pet-safe toys
Not every toy on the shelf is guaranteed to be a safe choice for your pet. Consult your veterinarian, and seek advice from fellow pet owners to make safe choices. Additionally, research specific brands, examining company practices, materials, ingredients, and consumer satisfaction. Prioritize durability and safety by closely inspecting all potential toys. Be prepared to make modifications to enhance their safety for your pet’s unique needs.
Consider removing these elements before allowing your pet to play with toys with strings, ribbons, or feathers. Modify your toy choices to the size and behavior of your pet. While certain toys may be suitable for smaller animals, they could pose a choking hazard for larger ones. Remember, a thoughtful and careful approach to toy selection ensures entertainment and the safety and well-being of your beloved pet.
Prompt response is the key to saving your pet’s life. In case of emergency, contact Autumn Trails and Veterinary Center. We provide the best urgent care services that keep your pets healthy and happy, especially in the case of an emergency. We offer our veterinary services in the city of Charlottesville, VA. Contact us at (434) 971-9800 to book an appointment.
