Toys are more than just fun and games when it comes to having some available for your cat and/or dog. Along with being cute and adding joy to you and your pet’s lives, pet toys are crucial in multiple areas of a pet’s wellbeing.

Physical

Toys like balls and tug ropes – among others – encourage dogs to run, jump, and play. The physical aspect of playing with toys helps dogs burn excess energy while assisting in maintaining a healthy weight and strong muscles.

Cats enjoy physical play, too! They like to chase, pounce, bat, and run. Toys like LED pointers and feather wants can bring out these activities in cats, mimicking their natural hunting behaviors, helping to keep them agile and fit.

Another physical benefit of toys is dental health. Different textures, materials, and features in dog and cat toys can help clean teeth, massage gums, and reduce plaque buildup. Of course, regular dental check ins with your pet’s veterinarian are a must to address any dental needs or issues.

Mental

Toys that challenge and stimulate your pet’s brain are beneficial in a few ways. They can improve problem-solving skills, keeping minds sharp and provide mental enrichment overall. Plus, toys that provide mental enrichment can help combat boredom and reduce unwanted destructive behaviors like chewing or scratching.

For indoor cats, mentally stimulating toys that mimic prey or require them to strategize are crucial as they add much needed variety to their environment.

Emotional

Pets can form attachment to favorite toys, which leads to the toy providing comfort and security. For example, your dog may have a favorite plush toy that decreases symptoms of separation anxiety and provides a calming experience when you are separated from them.

For cats and dogs alike, playtime is a bonding experience. Regular play sessions enhance the bond between pets and their owners, therefor strengthening the emotional connection between them.

Behavioral

Barking, chewing, scratching – they are all natural animal behaviors our pets exhibit. However, when the barking becomes excessive or your new furniture is being scratched on, it is not ideal. Cat and dog toys can help curb these unwanted behaviors by providing an appropriate outlet to express their natural instincts and keep them occupied. You’d much rather your dog grab their favorite bone to chew on instead of your shoe, right?

Social

Play is important for your pets to enhance their social interaction. Whether it’s your dog playing with another furry friend or your cat playing with you, interactive play encourages social bonds and is beneficial for your pet. To increase social interactions, set up a play date for your pup at the local dog park and bring some toys, or set aside time each week to use a wand or pointer toy with your cat.

Toys are a necessity for our pets’ wellbeing. Investing in a variety of toys for your dog or cat can lead to happier, healthier pet. Start with a few basic toy staples to meet your pet’s needs – but if you want to go above and beyond and buy LOTS of toys, we say: the more the merrier!

Coastal Pet Products is proud to offer full lines of dog and cat toys for the pets you love. Our Rascals® collection has a variety of dog toys for all kinds of play – including our fun, popular Grunt Toys. Our Turbo® collection has all the toys your cat needs – including our top-selling Turbo Scratcher® in original or eco style. If you have a new puppy or smaller breed, toys in our Li’l Pals® collection are perfectly sized for petite pups.