22 Nov Holiday Pet Toys to Avoid: Keeping Your Pet’s Dental Health in Mind
The holidays are a time for joy, gift-giving, and spoiling our pets. While it’s tempting to grab a festive toy or treat for your pet, it’s important to prioritize their health and safety—especially when it comes to their dental and oral health. Some common pet toys and chews, while marketed as safe or fun, can actually harm your pet. Let’s take a closer look at some holiday pet toys to avoid and why they may not be the best choice for your dog or cat.
Which holiday pet toys to avoid?
1. Hard Bones
Why to Avoid: Hard bones, whether natural or synthetic, are a popular choice for dogs but can lead to severe dental issues.
- Dental Risks: Hard bones are notorious for causing tooth fractures, especially in aggressive chewers. The force exerted during chewing can crack or break teeth, leading to pain and potential infection.
- Oral Trauma: Sharp edges can also cause gum injuries, leaving your pet vulnerable to bacterial infections.
Safer Alternatives: Opt for softer dental chews that are Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) approved and specifically designed to clean teeth without the risk of breakage.
2. Rawhide Chews
Why to Avoid: While rawhide chews are often seen as a long-lasting option, they can pose significant health concerns.
- Digestive Risks: Rawhide doesn’t easily break down in the stomach and can cause intestinal blockages if large pieces are swallowed.
- Choking Hazard: Dogs that gnaw off large chunks risk choking.
- Oral Health Issues: Rawhide can be very hard, potentially damaging teeth. Additionally, it can create rough surfaces that trap bacteria, contributing to gum disease and bad breath.
Safer Alternatives: Consider chews made from digestible ingredients, such as dental sticks or vegetable-based chews.
3. Bully Sticks
Why to Avoid: Bully sticks are a popular chew treat, but they’re not ideal for every pet.
- Hardness: Like bones, bully sticks can be too hard for some pets, increasing the risk of cracked teeth.
- Safer Alternatives: Look for dental chews designed to promote oral hygiene while being gentle on teeth.
4. Nylon-Type Bones
Why to Avoid: Nylon chews and toys are tough and durable, but their hardness makes them problematic for dental health.
- Tooth Damage: Dogs can crack their teeth while chewing on hard nylon toys, leading to costly dental procedures.
- Sharp Edges: Chewed-up nylon bones can develop jagged edges, which can injure gums and soft tissues in the mouth.
Safer Alternatives: Use rubber toys or dental chews that have some give when pressed with your thumb. These are less likely to damage teeth.
Tips for Choosing Safe Toys and Chews
- Perform the “Thumbnail Test”: If you can’t make a dent in the toy with your thumbnail, it’s too hard for your pet.
- Look for VOHC Approval: Products approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council are tested for safety and effectiveness in promoting dental health.
- Supervise Chewing: Always supervise your pet when introducing new chews or toys to ensure they use them safely.
- Prioritize Size and Material: Choose toys appropriately sized for your pet to minimize choking risks, and opt for soft, non-toxic materials.
Veterinary Dentist in Milwaukee
While it’s fun to surprise your pets with holiday treats and toys, not all products are created equal. Hard bones, rawhide, bully sticks, and nylon chews might seem like festive choices, but they can cause significant harm to your pet’s dental health. Always opt for safer, vet-recommended alternatives to keep your pet’s smile merry and bright all year long.
If you’re unsure about a specific toy or chew, consult your veterinarian for guidance. After all, keeping your pet safe and healthy is the best gift you can give this holiday season!
Image used under creative commons license (11/22/24) – by Sam Lion from Pexels.