Jewel encrusted four poster beds and tail warmers may be de rigueur as Christmas gifts for some pampered pooches, but if neither your budget nor your inclination allows for such excesses, Dr Guy Fyvie, veterinarian for Hill’s Pet Nutrition, says there are several cost-effective ways to treat your pet this festive season.
Jewel encrusted four poster beds and tail warmers may be de rigueur as Christmas gifts for some pampered pooches, but if neither your budget nor your inclination allows for such excesses, Dr Guy Fyvie, veterinarian for Hill’s Pet Nutrition, says there are several cost-effective ways to treat your pet this festive season.
A ball is the classic choice of toy for a dog, as it has all the requirements necessary to keep tails wagging. It bounces, provides an interesting texture to chew on and can easily be thrown. A tennis ball can collect grit in the fibres that can damage teeth, so rather choose an indestructible rubber ball that is specifically designed for dogs. Frisbees are also fantastic if your dog likes to play fetch; look for one made of soft rubber or cloth – they are gentler on a dog’s mouth and teeth.
A great way to keep your dog occupied and to relieve boredom is to put some of his daily food ration inside a hollow chew-toy and let him spend time happily nudging, rolling and chewing to reach the treats.
Toys for cats are easy to find and very often will incur little or no cost. Cats can be as interested in a piece of paper or a ping-pong ball, as a more expensive option. Rolled up balls of tin foil, plastic caps from bottles, paper bags or anything that moves easily and makes a bit of noise will keep your cat or kitten entertained for hours.
Cats love catnip and will react to even very small amounts. It’s perfectly safe and non-addictive and acts as a natural feline mood enhancer. Catnip may make your cat become more kittenish or affectionate, it may roll, paw or rub its face against the catnip, become frisky or chase invisible prey. Catnip grows easily in your garden, or buy it dried, in oil or in spray form, or in a toy from your vet or pet shop.
One of the best ways you can help your cat or dog live a long, healthy life is to maintain its correct weight – letting it overindulge during the holidays on sweets and rich food is not advisable. Chocolate is poisonous to dogs as it contains theobromine which can build up to toxic levels in a dog’s system.
A small amount of chocolate will probably give your dog an upset stomach and cause vomiting or diarrhoea. Large amounts can have more serious effects, such as muscle tremors, seizures, an irregular heartbeat, internal bleeding, or a heart attack. Don’t leave chocolates lying under the Christmas tree, and if you suspect your dog has eaten chocolate, seek veterinary advice. Healthy snack treats are a perfect present to pop under the tree for cats and dogs. Rather than giving cats milk or fish, both of which are difficult to digest, treat them to sachets of tasty, moist cat food.
For more information log onto www.hillspet.co.za where you’ll also find more than 250 pet care articles.
