What pet toys does Things Square offer?+โ
Things Square offers pet toys across four categories โ Chew Toys (natural rubber, nylon, rope, dental), Interactive Toys (puzzle feeders, treat dispensers, snuffle mats, lick mats), Plush Toys (squeaky, crinkle, catnip, no-stuffing styles), and Training Toys (fetch balls, tug ropes, frisbees, flirt poles). Toys are suitable for both dogs and cats across all ages and sizes.
How do I know if a toy is safe for my dog?+โ
Check that the toy is appropriately sized for your dog โ a toy too small for a large breed is a choking hazard. Ensure it's made from non-toxic materials. Match the toy to your dog's chew strength โ soft toys for gentle chewers, heavy-duty for aggressive chewers. Always supervise play with a new toy initially. Inspect regularly and discard when significant damage occurs, especially if stuffing, squeakers, or large pieces could be swallowed.
What interactive toys are best for dogs left alone?+โ
For dogs left alone, the best interactive toys are treat-dispensing toys and puzzle feeders that reward self-directed play with food. Kong-style stuffable toys filled with kibble, peanut butter, or wet food occupy dogs for extended periods. Snuffle mats hide kibble in fabric folds for nose-work enrichment. Lick mats with spreadable food provide calming, sustained licking activity. These toys provide mental stimulation that reduces anxiety and destructive behaviour during alone time.
Do cats need different toys to dogs?+โ
Yes โ cats and dogs have different play instincts. Cats are natural ambush hunters โ they are stimulated by toys that mimic prey movement, such as feather wands, laser dots, and fast-moving crinkle balls. Dogs are pack animals that enjoy chase, tug, and fetch-based play. Interactive puzzle feeders work for both. Catnip toys specifically engage cats through scent โ most dogs are unaffected. Always choose toys designed for the specific species as size and material requirements differ significantly.
How many toys does my pet need?+โ
Having 6โ10 toys and rotating groups of 3โ4 toys weekly is more effective than leaving all toys available permanently. Pets lose interest in toys they see constantly โ the rotation approach maintains novelty and significantly increases engagement. A good toy wardrobe should include at least one chew toy, one interactive toy, one plush or soft toy, and one training or fetch toy to cover different play needs and moods.