As pet owners, we want to give our furry friends the best. We spend money on all sorts of things – fancy toys, comfy accessories and helpful gadgets – all in the hopes that each one is going to make their life just a little bit better. But the truth is, sometimes even with the best of intentions, we get it wrong.
A product might seem perfect, a great buy, either in the shop or online, only to disappoint later. A collar that doesn’t quite fit right, a toy that’s lasted barely a week or a pet that’s still bored despite being surrounded by all sorts of cool stuff. To help you avoid getting caught out, here’s a list of the most common mistakes pet owners make when buying supplies for pets and some advice on how to avoid them.
Buying Products Just Because Everyone Else Is
One of the biggest mistakes pet owners make is buying supplies for pets that are trendy rather than because their pet actually needs them. Whether it’s a new harness, toy, or even food, we can get pulled in by what everyone else is buying – rather than taking the time to think about what would actually be best for our pet.
Every pet is different – and that’s why the right product for yours isn’t the one your neighbor is buying. It’s the one that fits your pet’s lifestyle, their personality and daily routine. Taking the time to choose supplies that are actually suited to your pet is a game-changer – it’ll improve their comfort, safety, and overall happiness.
Not Bothering to Check the Ingredient Labels
Ignoring ingredient labels on pet products is a pretty common mistake – and it can have a serious impact on your pet’s health. A lot of pet owners just don’t realize that some ingredients in everyday pet foods and treats can trigger allergies, sensitivities or all sorts of digestive problems. Knowing what’s actually in the products you give your pet is super important – as is knowing what words to be wary of (marketing hype can make products sound way better than they actually are).
Next time you’re out shopping for pet food or treats, take a minute to actually read the ingredient list. And if you see any terms you don’t understand, don’t be afraid to do a bit of research. And if all else fails, speak to your vet for some advice on what to choose.
Buying Oversized Food Bags for Small Pets
Large food bags can end up being cost-effective for multiple or big pets. However, they’re not always the best fit for smaller pets. You want to aim to buy a food bag that will get used up in about two to three weeks. As soon as a bag is opened, the food starts to degrade because it comes into contact with oxygen, which causes it to oxidize. This can lead to a marked drop in quality over time.
Furthermore, this can actually hurt your pet’s health. Small dogs, for instance, are notorious for turning up their noses before finishing a large bag, because the fats in the food have gone rancid by then, and dogs’ sensitive noses can pick up on those smells way more easily than ours can. Even vets have a term for the digestive upset that can come from eating older, oxidized food – it’s called “bottom of the bag syndrome”. By choosing a bag that’s the right size for your pet, you can rest assured that they’ll be eating fresh, nutritious food every time.
Not Choosing Age-Appropriate and Safe Pet Toys
When you don’t pick toys that are suitable for your pet, it can lead to all sorts of unexpected safety risks. The thing is, not every toy is built for every animal, and ones that aren’t designed with your pet’s age, size and play style in mind can quickly turn into hazards. Toys that are too small are a choking hazard, while those with loose parts or weak stitching can break apart and be ingested. Low-quality materials can even be downright toxic if your pet decides to chew on them.
When it comes to choosing toys, you need to take into account your pet’s size, age and chewing habits – and also look for well-made, durable products that are designed to withstand regular play. And in the meantime, regularly check your toys for signs of wear and tear. If any of them are showing their age, it’s time to swap them out. Of course, you should also be supervising playtime, especially with new toys, and picking out ones that are specifically designed for your pet’s species and size.
Buying Pet Supplies Because of the Look, Not Function
There’s no denying that flashy pet products can be tempting – and who can blame you? With all the bells and whistles, fancy features, and sleek designs, they can catch your eye. But more often than not, these complicated designs end up being a real hassle. Take a hard-to-clean feeder, for instance, or a self-clean litter box that’s more finicky than a feline on a caffeine high. All those extra features and parts can make everyday tasks nothing short of a chore for pet owners.
When it comes to pet supplies, let’s get down to basics: functionality and ease-of-use are way more important than how something looks. Busy pet parents need products that are easy to clean, maintain and use daily. And yes, they might not look as flashy, but prioritizing practicality over aesthetics is the key to keeping your pet’s needs met without adding unnecessary stress to your day.
Overbuying or Buying Unnecessary Supplies
It’s easy to get caught up in the shopping frenzy and buy lots of gear at once – all those extra toys, multiple beds, and fancy accessories are supposed to make your pet’s life a happier one, right? The truth is, many of these items end up gathering dust, cluttering up the place and sometimes making your pet feel overwhelmed. And let’s not even get started on the money – all that extra cash down the drain.
The smart way to shop for pet supplies is to focus on the essentials first. Then, add a bit at a time, keeping a close eye on your pet’s habits, preferences and lifestyle. That way, every purchase actually serves a purpose and does some real good for your furry friend.
