As any cat owner knows, it is nearly impossible to guess what toy is going to make your kitty sit up and take notice. However, when choosing toys that will provide stimulating play for your cat and keep him engaged, you must also consider the safety factor. So, just which safe toy will engage frisky kitties when the clock strikes playtime?The Safety FactorWhen considering toys for your kitty, keep this in mind: If it can be swallowed, it is dangerous. The backward-pointing barbs on a cat's tongue make it difficult for him to remove items from his mouth.It is important to stay away from toys that have string or shiny bits of metal that cats might swallow. When choosing a toy for your cats avoid any that may be a choking hazard. Stay away from toys with small parts or toys that have pieces that may become dislodged during a playful cat romp. The same is true for small balls, yarn, ribbon, tassels, rubber bands and bells.Check toys for glued-on decorations or trim. Also, make sure they are not made of a toxic substance. All of these can cause severe injury to your curious pet.Purposeful PlayThe search for the perfect cat toy may last a lifetime, but it is a worthy journey. No matter what age, from kitten to senior, cats naturally love to play. Play stimulates intellectual growth, develops coordination and balance and teaches cats proper interaction with humans and other cats (socialization). During playtime cats get needed exercise to hone their skills of pouncing and hopping as an outlet for their boundless energy."Play is important for cats," says Mark Cousins, DVM, and ABVP, specialist in feline practice, the Cat Practice, New Orleans, Louisiana. "Play teaches cats hunting and stalking maneuvers that are essential in the wild in order to survive."According to Cousins, play should be directed toward inanimate objects, not people. Cats should never be allowed to scratch humans. "I tell my clients to get cat toys, because the cats are biting the clients."
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