Choosing Safe Pet Toys

Keeping Pets Happy And Healthy With Enrichment

Here at Highbury North Pet Hospital in London, Ontario, we often speak with pet parents that are looking for new ways to keep their pets mentally and physically stimulated. Toys aren’t just about entertainment: the right toys prevent boredom, reduce anxiety, and keep your pet safe. Safe pet toys and enrichment routines are key components of your pet’s overall health, especially for indoor pets, high-energy breeds, and those prone to anxiety. 

In this blog from an East London, ON veterinarian, we’ll walk you through how to choose safe pet toys, introduce enrichment activities, and ensure your dog or cat stays engaged and happy at home.

Why Is Enrichment Important for Pets?

Just like humans, pets need mental stimulation to thrive. Without it, they can become bored, anxious, or even depressed. Enrichment reduces destructive behaviours like chewing, overgrooming, or excessive barking and helps promote calm, well-adjusted pets.

Enrichment is particularly valuable for pets recovering from injury, those on crate rest, or older animals who need low-impact engagement. It supports their emotional and cognitive health throughout all life stages. 

How Do You Choose Safe Toys For Pets?

When choosing a toy, consider:

• Material – Avoid toys with toxic chemicals, small parts, or thin plastic that can splinter
  
• Durability – Choose toys sized appropriately for your pet’s breed and chewing strength
  
• Supervision – Some toys are great under supervision but not ideal for solo play
  
• Ease of cleaning – Toys should be washable to prevent bacteria buildup
  

For cats, avoid toys with unsecured string, rubber bands, or feathers that can be swallowed. Dogs should steer clear of toys with squeakers that could be ingested. Explore more toy safety tips here. 

Recommended Safe Toy Categories for Dogs and Cats

Safe toy ideas for dogs:

• Rubber chew toys (e.g., Kong®)
  
• Interactive treat dispensers or puzzle feeders
  
• Rope toys (supervised only)
  
• Soft plush toys (for gentle chewers)
  
• Frozen treat toys in summer
  

Safe toy ideas for cats:

• Wand toys with string securely attached
  
• Catnip-stuffed soft toys
  
• Puzzle feeders or rolling treat balls
  
• Cardboard boxes and tunnels
  
• Scratching posts and climbing shelves
  

Rotate toys regularly to keep your pet’s interest fresh and avoid overstimulation. Ask your vet for more information on mental stimulation for pets. 

What Are Some Good Pet Enrichment Ideas?

Mental stimulation doesn’t always require store-bought toys. There are plenty of things you can do at home to provide mental stimulation for pets. 

• Hide kibble around the house for foraging
  
• Use muffin tins and tennis balls as treat puzzles
  
• Teach your pet a new trick or cue weekly
  
• Create obstacle courses or scent trails
  
• Offer supervised outdoor time in a safe yard or on a leash
  

Kitties also benefit from window perches and bird-watching stations. Dogs love nose work, tug games, and interactive training sessions.

Learn more about at-home pet enrichment ideas here. 

Signs Your Pet Needs More Stimulation

Boredom is no better for pets than it is for people. Mental stimulation for pets can make a huge difference to their overall quality of life. If your pet is showing signs of boredom or under-stimulation, you may notice:

• Chewing furniture or shoes
  
• Overeating or under-eating
  
• Restlessness or pacing
  
• Inappropriate elimination
  
• Excessive vocalizing
  

Adding enrichment tools and playtime into your routine can ease these behaviours and support overall health. For pets with behavioural issues, enrichment is often part of the treatment plan. 

Enrichment for Senior Pets and Special Needs Animals

Older pets still need enrichment, but may benefit from gentler activities. Soft toys, snuffle mats, or slow-feeder bowls provide challenge without strain. For blind or deaf pets, use scent and touch-based toys.

Puzzles and treat-dispensing toys can even help slow cognitive decline in senior dogs and cats. Arthritic pets may also need more mental stimulation, rather than physical exercise. Just be sure to monitor for frustration or fatigue, and adjust the difficulty as needed.

Make Play a Priority for Pet Wellness

Play is more than fun—it’s part of any great pet care routine. Visit our Service Page for more information about the services we offer and the type of pets we see.

Visit Our North London, ON Pet Clinic

At Highbury North Pet Hospital in London, Ontario, we believe that safe pet toys and enrichment routines are essential for happy, balanced pets. Schedule a wellness exam with us today!

This blog is meant to be informational only. Always consult with your veterinarian for the right medical advice or treatment plan to fit your pet’s needs.