Sunday, May 11, 2008

Toys: Little Luxuries For Pets

Toys contribute to a pet's mental, emotional, and physical development, and play brightens up an animal's life too; so don't deprive your companion of the space, opportunity and tools for having fun.

Dogs and Cats

Dog or cat owners are lucky in the sense that pet stores are packed with toys for these two species. But as any human child can tell you, playing alone isn't always fun. Playtime means more to your pet if you join in, getting it to catch the toys, or search for hidden items. Use the toys as tools for fun interaction.

Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, and Chinchillas

Although rabbits, guinea pigs, and chinchillas may not want to play tug-of-war or find-the-catnip with you, but they do enjoy being encouraged to find new ways to play. Offer them boxes to hide in and cardboard rolls to hop through, and be creative with enclose panels to set up a playpen that has different sections or levels to explore.

Hamsters, Gerbils, and Mice

Hamster, gerbils, and mice enjoy exercise wheels, roller balls, tube trails and even the cardboard core left behind after you finish a roll of toilet paper. Different levels and sections in the cages also give them opportunities to climb up and down.

Birds

Birds like a variety of perches set at different heights. Some also enjoy swinging by their beaks from rings or bars. Very tame birds can be let it out into a safe room daily for more exercise; otherwise, provide the largest enclosure possible.

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