There is no doubt that our pets love toys, such as Kongs and cat trees, for both entertainment and exercise. However, unbeknownst to many cat and dog owners some toys can be harmful or even deadly for our pets leading to choking hazards, fatal intestinal blockages and even potential suffocation. Here are some toys to avoid to keep fur babies safe:

1. Ice cubes

Technically, there is nothing wrong with giving our pets ice, however, some precautions need to be taken. Chewing on ice can break or chip a dog’s tooth. Ice cubes fit through a toilet paper tube, which means that they are choking hazards for pets.

2. Plastic bags

Dogs and cats are naturally curious animals. When they see plastic bags, they want to see what is inside. While their heads are inside the bag, they deplete all of the air, which creates a vacuum around their head. Now, they can no longer get any more air and will suffocate. Even a large dog can suffocate in a matter of minutes.

3. Rubber bands

Puppies and kittens love playing with all kinds of things including rubber bands. The fact that rubber bands are easy to swallow is what makes them so dangerous. Once swallowed, they cause the intestines to bunch up. This is considered to be life-threatening for the animal. The only way to correct this problem is with surgery.

4. Sticks

People have been throwing sticks for their pets to fetch for centuries. However, it is time to make a change and throw things like balls and squeaky toys. Sticks can cause serious problems for our pets. For one, sticks that are stepped on can poke into the paw pads. Sticks can splinter and pierce a dog’s mouth, stomach, and chest. A piece of wood that is swallowed can cause an infection. Not to mention sticks can be choking hazards and cause intestinal problems.

5. Bones

Dogs love to chew on bones, but they are not the best thing to provide that chewing satisfaction. Cooked bones are hazardous. Not only can they splinter and break easily, but they can also cause a long list of problems. They can cause broken teeth, injuries to the mouth, intestinal problems, and more. Store bought bone treats can cause problems too. Not only are they choking hazards for pets, they can also cause intestinal blockages, cuts in the mouth, diarrhea, and vomiting.

6. Pigs’s ears

A recent salmonella outbreak caused the FDA and CDC to warn pet owners over the danger of feeding pets pig’s ears. However, even before the outbreak, it has been recommended that pets should not eat them. The outer coating on these treats can cause stomach problems. Also, they are the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. They are choking hazards and can cause intestinal problems if the dog swallows large pieces.