How to Inspect a Cat's Toys for Safety

While many cat toys are safe, there are some that could be dangerous for your favorite feline. Also some cats are more destructive of their toys than others, so it may take a bit more precaution when choosing their toys. With a little extra careful inspection, you can make sure your cat is able to play safely.

Evaluate the Size

If the toy looks as though it would be too small, chances are it probably is. Any toy you give your cat should be significantly larger than his mouth. This includes any parts of the toy on the outside, even if they seem to be attached on tightly. Before you give your cat any new toy, compare the size with his mouth to make sure there is no way he would be able to swallow it.

Acknowledge Cat's Temperament

If your cat continuously destroys all of his toys, getting him a toy that has a bell, squeaker or some other small item on the inside of it may not be the best idea. Should your cat rip open the toy and gets his paws on what's inside, it can spell disaster if he ingests that item. If your cat has a temperament where he shreds his toys, opt for ones that are solid without any dangling or internal pieces.

Check for Loose Pieces

Some relatively small pieces on the toy seem to be attached tightly, but it could be quite the opposite. Some toys, if not well made, will simply fall apart with very little use. Inspect every area of the toy to make sure there is no chance the cat could swallow any small pieces, such as bells, that may come loose and if there is the slightest chance, forgo it for a toy that is better made..

Tug on the Toy

When checking for safety, some cat owners may concentrate on the accessories on a cat toy as opposed to the sewn parts of the toy itself. Your cat will most likely pull on the toy with his mouth and claws, so in order to know if the toy can withstand to the minimum pressure, pull on it to make sure it will not come apart easily. For example, if you purchased a stuffed mouse for him, pull on the fake tail to make sure it won't be able to get ripped or chewed off.

Taking a few minutes to carefully inspect your cat's toy can mean the difference between his safety and an emergency situation. If possible, before you buy your cat's toy, check the reviews on it to make sure there were no previous problems that were reported with the item.