Cats have long been referred to as furry “babies” or “children” by the humans with whom they live. My seven are no exception. With Christmas not far off , I’ve been busy searching for just the right gifts for my brood.
The following list I came up with incorporates quality, price and above all…cat value. No one wants to waste money on a gift that will be ignored after the first few obligatory kitty sniffs. Most major pet stores should have these or similar items available.
(Gifts under $10)
#1 – Feline “Greenies”
Nothing is better, or easier, in promoting good dental care for your cat than Greenies. These textured treats help scrape away tarter. They also contain Chlorophyll and Rosemary extract to freshen breath. Greenies come in four kitty loving flavors – salmon, chicken, liver and ocean fish.
#2 – Kitty Mitten
For cats young and old, playing is something they thrive on. Put one of these mittens on your hand and dangle the long 8-1/2″ fingers in front of your pet. Plastic inserts fit into each finger, keeping them extended during play. Pompoms on the end of each finger are filled with catnip. Kitty will be ready for a nap after playing with this item.
#3 – Holiday Collar Ruffs
Everyone in the family spruces up for Christmas with new attire. Now your cats can also look their best! These decorative ruffles slip easily over kitty’s head and come in three colors – cranberry, spruce or plaid. As cats vary in size just as people, these cute ruffles are available in three sizes (XS, S, and M). They also have little bells attached which jingle as they run about.
(Gifts under $20)
#4 – Thermal Cat Cushion
This is a comfy, cozy place for your cat to sleep. As kitty curls up on it, the cushion is warmed by his own body heat. In a multi-cat family, it might be advisable to have two or more. They are completely machine washable, and this product has received rave reviews.
#5 – Kitty Litter Screen
Cat’s have feelings too! I’ve walked into the hallway many a time, only to see one of my cats “taking care of business.” As our eyes connect, I always feel I’ve intruded on his privacy. I know I wouldn’t want people waltzing through the bathroom when I’m on the pot! A kitty litter screen not only keeps us from seeing the litter box itself, but most of them are very eye appealing.
#6 –Cat Toy Gift Bucket
This large, plastic tub contains a whopping 45 assorted kitty toys. Included are stuffed mice, pompoms, various balls, and feathered rattles. The selection and quantity make it a gift that will be used for a long time to come. This author would suggest, however, to not make all 45 toys available to your cats at one time. Two or three – or a few more depending on the number of kitty’s living in your home, are plenty.
#7 – Cat Hair Magnet
Just as we enjoy having our hair combed and brushed, so do our cats! Multi-cat homes, especially, have cat hair nearly everywhere in the house. This magnet, in the shape of an archway, sits atop a sturdy carpeted base measuring 17″ x 14″. As kitty passes through the arch, the brush both attracts and holds the loose kitty hair. In the event you have a cat than isn’t curious, there is also a place in the base to put catnip to help increase his interest.
#8 – Soft/Claws Nail Caps
These are a wonderful alternative to declawing a cat. With nail caps, kitty can still scratch, extend and retract his claws, but no furniture (or people) will be damaged. One package contains enough caps and adhesive to last for one full year (caps are good for about three months). These come in three sizes based on the weight of the cat.
(Gifts over $20)
#9 – Expandable Cat Tunnel
Cats love to play and this multi-colored tunnel is great for hide ‘n seek. Fully expanded it is 48″ long with a 13″ diameter and can be made even longer by adding an extra 30″ section to it. Also a nice place to nap with its soft fleece lining. Folds up nicely for travel.
#10 – Cat Cottage
This is top of the line! A 2-story decorated cottage, extra strong, accommodating cats up to 20 pounds. Includes two top floor lookouts, four hide and seek windows and two bottom level entry doors. A cat’s delight!
Happy Shopping!
