Pet Articles: News, Names, Advice & More About Family Pets https://www.sheknows.com All Things Parenting Thu, 21 Dec 2023 22:26:34 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.3.2 https://www.sheknows.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/cropped-sk-fav-icon.png?w=32 Pet Articles: News, Names, Advice & More About Family Pets https://www.sheknows.com 32 32 149804645 Here's the True Cost of Emergency Vet Visits & Why—According to Experts https://www.sheknows.com/living/articles/1077773/emergency-vet-visit-cost/ Thu, 21 Dec 2023 22:26:29 +0000 https://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/1077773/emergency-vet-visit-cost/ If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, SheKnows may receive an affiliate commission.

When your pet is injured or sick, the last thing on your mind is how much it will cost to get them better. Whisking your dog or cat off to the emergency vet after they’ve broken a bone, eaten chocolate or experienced pretty much anything unexpected is stressful enough. But the fact of the matter is, taking your animal to the vet for an emergency visit can get really expensive, really fast.

Depending on the state you live in, the veterinary facility, your pet’s breed and the emergency itself, prices for emergency vet visits can vary. But across the board, they’re notoriously steep. An emergency vet can be the same as a standard vet or an entirely different practitioner or animal hospital; either way, the nature of the visit dictates the fees.

We reached out to Alex Stone, CEO of Petted, a leading pet insurance comparison site, and Kristen Lynch, Executive Director of pet insurance association NAPHIA, to learn more about what emergency vet visits actually cost and why they’re so costly. We were shocked to hear the truth. We aren’t talking about hundreds of dollars; we’re talking thousands. The costs add up quickly, but there are some things you can do to soften the financial blow, like investing in the right pet insurance.

Our mission at SheKnows is to empower and inspire women, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Lemonade is a SheKnows sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

How Much Do Emergency Vet Visits Cost?

If your pet has an emergency, “You are basically going to the ER,” says Stone, and just like in the human world, ER visits will cost you. Average prices start at about $40 for a urine test or pain meds and escalate to about $5,000 for emergency surgery, according to Preventive Vet. Some other common treatments include:

  • IV: up to $95
  • Blood tests: up to $200
  • X-rays: up to $250
  • Ultrasound: Up to $600
  • Wound treatment: up to $2,500
  • Oxygen therapy: Up to $3,000
  • Hospitalization: up to $3,500
  • Intestinal obstruction with surgery: $4,000 or more
  • Pancreatitis: $5,000 or more
  • Eating poison like chocolate or raisins: $5,000 or more
  • Antifreeze poisoning: $6,000 or more
  • Hit by a car: $8,000 or more
  • Dog bite wounds: $10,000 or more

If you figure that many of these treatments may be required in a single visit, you start to realize how some people can end up in debt if their pet experiences a medical emergency.

Why Are Emergency Vet Visits So Costly? Experts Break It Down

“Emergency visits are costly because it typically means that the situation is no longer about small or routine treatments that can be more easily addressed. Instead, they often require complex and multi-pronged diagnostics and treatment approaches which may include blood tests, X-rays, exams, prescriptions, overnight hospital stays, IV fluids or medication, surgery and specialist treatments,” says Lynch.

“A specialty animal hospital is no different than the ER,” adds Stone. “So in terms of the diagnostics, whether it’s X-rays, MRI scans, whether it’s blood tests, surgery…you’ve got teams of people around the clock that are watching over your pet.” Stone emphasizes that emergency veterinary training is just as rigorous as training for human emergencies. And since pets can’t vocalize how they feel or how many pain they’re in, monitoring them requires even more vigilance. Supplies and machinery in veterinary emergency rooms can be more expensive than those in regular vet facilities, too.

Emergency vet costs can vary, according to Betterpet, based on:

Location

Different states charge different fees for veterinary care. The actual facility you choose will factor in too. “You can have the same surgery done in the midwest for $3,000 to $4,000, let’s say for example, TPLO (tibial plateau leveling osteotomy) surgery…can typically cost you three or $4,000 in the Midwest. But in California [or New York] that can be $9,000, simply because the cost of buildings, staff, and education — the cost of everything is just more expensive in those states,” says Stone.

Breed

Your dog’s breed will determine what kinds of illnesses they’re susceptible to, like hip dysplasia and eye infections, which can also affect prices.

The severity of the emergency

Things like emergency surgery and cardiac conditions often cost thousands.

Specialities

If your pet develops cancer, for instance, they’ll need to see an oncologist. Cancer treatments can be among the most costly.

Why Having Pet Insurance Helps With Emergency Vet Visits

“We live in a country where almost six out of 10 people have less than $500 in savings,” notes Stone, according to some statistics. Other studies have that average hovering around $1,200. Either way, it’s not getting you very far in the event of an emergency: it would only cover a two-day hospital stay on the low end of the cost spectrum. “People just don’t have the money to keep their pets healthy. That’s why pet insurance is growing massively. In the last few years, people are finally realizing, ‘Hey, pet insurance is a really good thing because it protects my pet against the worst,'” says Stone.

“Pet insurance helps the pet owner say ‘yes’ to comprehensive care and treatments. When this happens, you want to be able to be there for your pet, deal with the complex emotions of being a caring pet parent, and ideally not worry about whether you can afford to provide the care they need and the situation demands,” adds Lynch. But pet insurance is all about the type and level of coverage you have. “Policies offer a wide range of coverage options to suit the needs of the pet owner, their financial situation, and the breed and age of their pet.”

Choosing pet insurance to protect your pet in the event of a medical emergency comes down how much annual coverage you want, how much you want to spend in monthly premiums, how much you’d rather pay toward a deductible versus a copay, the age and general health of your pet and, of course, what accidents and illnesses are covered by the policy. Some pet insurers offer accident and illness plans only, while others give the option of adding preventive care, too.

Lemonade Pet Insurance

Lemonade is an example of a pet insurance that has you covered in the event of a range of emergencies. In fact, accidents and illnesses are covered in their base plan. You can select an annual coverage limit between $5,000 and $100,000. You’ll pay a higher premium for higher payouts, but this can benefit you in the event of an emergency. Choosing a higher copay and lower deductible could also benefit you in this regard. A Lemonade policy will cover diagnostics and treatments with reimbursement rates of 70%, 80% or 90% depending on the plan. You can add emergency room visits to the plan for an additional $5 a month. For another $13 a month, you can include dental emergencies (and checkups). An add-on of $3.50 a month will give you prescription medication coverage.


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1077773
The Best Pet Insurance Plans and Options, & What to Make Sure Your Plan Has, According to Experts https://www.sheknows.com/living/articles/1037367/best-pet-insurance-plans/ https://www.sheknows.com/living/articles/1037367/best-pet-insurance-plans/#respond Thu, 21 Dec 2023 19:17:40 +0000 https://www.sheknows.com/pets-and-animals/articles/1037367/best-pet-insurance-plans-and-options/ If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, SheKnows may receive an affiliate commission.

Responsible pet owners know all too well the cost of properly caring for an animal. Aside from day-to-day care and grooming, there are the constantly mounting costs of wellness checks, emergency vet visits, pet medications and everything else it takes to keep your furry friend healthy and happy.

Fortunately, the availability of pet insurance eases some of the financial burdens of pet care. Unfortunately, choosing the best from among all the options available to you can be overwhelming. Get started by determining precisely which insurance benefits are most important to you, and go from there.

Pet insurance is typically utilized for emergencies and illnesses, while pay for your pet’s wellness checks and routine healthcare out of your own pocket. You can often add preventive care if you’d like, but, of course, your premiums will go up. So first decide what your needs are when it comes to keeping your furry friend healthy. Then dig around for a pet insurance plan that offers the best coverage and reimbursement. Let’s sniff out the top contenders.

Best Pet Insurance Plans at a Glance

Best for Fast Reimbursements: Lemonade
Best for Emergencies: Paw Protect
Best for Senior Dogs: Fetch
Best Customized: Careplus by Chewy
Best for Unlimited Payouts: Trupanion

What to Look for in Pet Insurance, According to an Expert

SheKnows turned to Alex Stone, CEO of Petted, the leading pet insurance comparison site in the U.S., to find out exactly what to consider when choosing a pet insurance policy:

Annual coverage

Stone says annual coverage, or “the amount that you can select or amount you can use for covered vet bills each year,” is the first thing to look out for. Depending on the insurer, this can be anywhere from $5,000 a year to unlimited, with a common middle ground being about $250,000. “You really want to make sure that you have enough annual coverage so that if your pet gets really sick, the insurance will pay for it,” clarifies Stone, whose own golden retriever racked up $20,000 in cancer treatment bills in the last year of his life. “If we’d had a plan that only had $2,500 or $5,000 of coverage, then really it wouldn’t have helped him.”

Types of coverage

You’ll want to research exactly what each company covers. For instance, some pet insurers pay only for emergencies and illnesses, while others include preventive care. Others even offer dental coverage, as Stone notes, as well as add-ons like boarding and acupuncture.

Wait times

Pet insurance companies will often require wait times before providing coverage for certain treatments, but every company is different. “Some insurers have longer waiting times than others before knee conditions are covered, for example, or some hip conditions,” says Stone.

Reimbursement model

“Pet insurance is usually a reimbursement model. What that means is you have to pay the vet bill first and then get the money back,” says Stone, who points out that some companies take a while to pay claims, so you might want to investigate this beforehand. A few pet insurers will pay the vet directly — something else to consider if that’s important to you.

Comparison sites like Petted help you skip the monotony of going from one insurance site to another to compare. They lay out all your options in detail so you can make your own informed decision.

How to Pick a Pet Insurance Plan Based on Your Needs, According to an Expert

Once you’ve zeroed in on the pet insurers you prefer, check to make sure they’re available in your state. Then consider:

Your pet’s age

“Puppies and younger pets are usually healthier than senior pets, just like in the human world,” says Stone. “Coverage is never going to change If you sign up when your pet is younger, but if you try and sign up when they’re older, sometimes there’s going to be longer wait period. And there are certain coverages or deductibles or copays that just won’t be available from certain insurers. Sometimes insurers won’t insure pets at all if the pet is over, say age five.” Stone says it’s best to sign your pet up as a puppy, but if that’s not an option, find a pet insurer that has provisions for older pets (although Stone points out that pre-existing conditions are almost never covered).

Deductibles and copays

The deductible is the amount of covered vet bills you’re responsible to pay for each year before insurance kicks in, and it resets each year. The copay is the amount or percentage you have to pay out of pocket for each visit. These two factors usually have an inverse relationship with each other. If your pet is generally healthy and you don’t expect too many vet visits, a high deductible might be right for you versus higher copays.

Reimbursement percentages

“This is what percentage you get back for each claim, whereas a copay would be the percentage that you pay towards each claim,” says Stone. A reimbursement percentage is broken down like this: “Typically the options are 70, 80 or 90 percent reimbursement. So what that means is you are either going to pay 30, 20, or 10 percent towards each covered condition,” Stone explains. The higher your monthly premium, the more you’ll get reimbursed for each incident. Stone says most people would rather pay a higher monthly premium than put a lot of money into each service — especially if they don’t have a lot in savings to pay for 10 to 30 percent of an emergency vet bill. But this is entirely up to you.

Here’s an overview of the best pet insurance companies on the market.

Our mission at SheKnows is to empower and inspire women, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Lemonade is a SheKnows sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

Lemonade

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This insurance company has a base pet plan that covers accidents and illnesses — specifically, the diagnostics, procedures and medications involved, whether your dog or cat breaks a bone, swallows a Lego or develops hip dysplasia — after various waiting periods that range from two days to six months. Lemonade also offers add-on options and preventive packages that kick off immediately. The company prides itself on reimbursing claims quickly (up to 90 percent), depositing funds directly into your bank account. Plans start at $10 a month, and deductibles and copays may apply.

Age restrictions: Eight weeks to 14 years
Plans available: Accident and Illness, Preventive Care and Preventive Care+ with dental cleaning
Deductible options: $100 to $500 per year
Reimbursement options: 70%, 80% or 90%
Coverage limits: $5,000 to $100,000
Pros: Claims can be approved and paid instantly by Lemonade’s AI-powered platforms; payments can be made directly to the vet; preventive care options are available.
Cons: Claims can only be filed through the app, and you cannot interact with a human representative.


The Best Pet Insurance Plans and Options for 2024

Paw Protect

There’s something very unique about Paw Protect: in addition to accidents, illnesses and preventive care, they provide members with an interest-free $2,000 line of credit to use in the event of a vet bill you can’t afford. They also offer 10% if you take out an additional pet policy, and they’ll reduce your deductible by $50 for each year you don’t make a claim. You’ll also get back $25 a year if you opt for a wellness plan.

Age restrictions: Up to 14 years for accidents and illnesses; 15 years and older for accident-only.
Plans available: Accident and illness, Accident-only and Wellness (as an add-on)
Deductible options: $100 to $500
Reimbursement options: 70% to 90%
Coverage limits: $5,000 to unlimited
Pros: Interest-free line of credit; some coverage for senior dogs; preventive care; incentives for covering more than one pet; 24/7 telehealth line.
Cons: Illnesses not covered for senior dogs; $25 enrollment fee.


The Best Pet Insurance Plans and Options for 2024

Careplus by Chewy

The beloved pet supply brand offers both wellness and emergency/illness insurance plan options that make your life as a pet parent easier. They pay the vet directly — any vet in the U.S. offer unlimited lifetime coverage and cover prescriptions 100 percent. Chewy even offers telehealth services. Waiting periods are up to two weeks at the most.

Age restrictions: Two months to unlimited.
Plans available: Accident only, Value, Essential, Essential Plus and Complete
Deductible options: $250
Reimbursement options: 70%, 80% and 90%
Coverage limits: Unlimited
Pros: Direct payment to vets; telehealth access seven days a week; full reimbursement; a lot of plan tiers, some including preventive care.
Cons: Up to a month waiting period; Premiums on the higher side.


The Best Pet Insurance Plans and Options for 2024

Trupanion

Trupanion will reimburse the vet directly up to 90 percent, offers unlimited annual coverage and flexible deductible options, and their customer service agents are there for you 24/7. They cover accidents, illnesses — even those developed through breeding — and add-ons such as boarding and third-party property damage. However, Trupanion doesn’t offer preventive care. Trupanion places no limits on claims or incidents per year or lifetime payouts — a particular benefit for someone who has an unlucky pet or one with lifelong health conditions. Once your pet has been approved for insurance coverage, Trupanion will work with you to adjust your deductible as needed.

Age restrictions: 0 to 14 years
Plans available: Accident and illness plan (plus add-ons)
Deductible options: $0 to $1,000
Reimbursement options: 90%
Coverage limits: Unlimited
Pros: No annual caps; rates won’t increase as your pet ages; payment directly to vets; offers pet owner assistance add-ons.
Cons: Preventive care is not covered; vet exams not covered.


The Best Pet Insurance Plans and Options for 2024

Fetch

Fetch (formerly PetPlan) is the only insurance option that offers the option of 100 percent reimbursement to all veterinarians in the U.S. and Canada. Other reimbursement amounts are available for pet owners looking to control their premiums. And Fetch covers all accidents and illnesses with no restrictions for hereditary or congenital conditions. They even cover acupuncture!

Age restrictions: 6 weeks and up
Plans available: Accident and illness plan
Deductible options: $200, $350 or $500
Reimbursement options: 70%, 80% and 90%
Coverage limits: $5,000 to $15,000
Pros: No maximum age limit; covers up to $1,000 in telehealth visits; offers some dental coverage.
Cons: Does not pay the vet directly; no preventive care.


The Best Pet Insurance Plans and Options for 2024

Healthy Paws

Not only does this insurance cover your sick or injured pet, it also provides first-rate coverage for animals with chronic (but not pre-existing) conditions. Healthy Paws offers unlimited lifetime benefits, and there is no cap or limit on individual claims. Your deductible is annual and not per incident, so it’s a money-saver for anyone whose pet spends a lot of time at the vet. And you can customize your deductible based on what you’re willing and able to afford out-of-pocket.

Age restrictions: 8 weeks to 14 years
Plans available: Accident and illness
Deductible options: $100 to $500
Reimbursement options: 70% to 90%
Coverage limits: Unlimited
Pros: No annual caps; cancer treatment is covered (not as an add-on).
Cons: Dental care is not included; routine care is not included.


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I Had My Mixed Breed Dog Take a DNA & Health Test So I Can Be More Proactive About Her Health https://www.sheknows.com/living/articles/2920715/basepaws-dog-dna-health-test-review/ https://www.sheknows.com/living/articles/2920715/basepaws-dog-dna-health-test-review/#respond Thu, 21 Dec 2023 16:49:13 +0000 https://www.sheknows.com/?p=2920715 If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, SheKnows may receive an affiliate commission.

Meet Pepper. She’s a three-year-old German Shepherd-Cane Corso mix (emphasis on German Shepherd—she’s 75 percent, according to the neighbor from whom I adopted her). Likes: Belly rubs, morning zoomies, and pepperoni as a bedtime snack. Dislikes: When I leave for work, if I give my other dog “too much” attention, and anyone who has the audacity to ring the doorbell. I know as much as I can about Pepper: her health — according to annual vet visits — is in good shape, and she doesn’t seem to have any allergies, aside from dry skin from time to time.

But I could always learn more, so that not only would I know for sure what her genetic markers say about her overall health and prognosis. That way, I can take the steps needed to make sure she lives a long, happy life. Since she’s a large breed (90 pounds!) I know she runs the risk of hip dysplasia and heart disease. She’s not the most active dog (my other dog, a purebred GSD, can circle laps around her — Pepper mostly just wants to cuddle), so we’re already careful about how many treats we give her (and make sure the ingredients are as wholesome as possible). Luckily, there’s a way to be even more proactive: You can test for genetic risk factors (and breed traits) with a DNA test, and the one I’m currently testing is Basepaws Breed + Health Dog DNA Test ($85, originally $149).

Our mission at SheKnows is to empower and inspire women, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Basepaws is a SheKnows sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.

Basepaws Breed+Health Dog DNA Test: Best Dog DNA Kit? We Tested

Basepaws Dog DNA Test


How Basepaws Breed + Health Dog DNA Test Works

Completing the Basepaws Dog DNA Test is pretty simple: You sign up on Basepaws.com, create an account and register your kit — this is where your pup’s information will be stored, and you’ll get emails notifying you that Basepaws received the kit and that the sample is being sequenced (and eventually you’ll get a messaging saying the results are in, which you would then check on the website).

Once you set up your account, open the packaging, which has two key parts: A swab, and a tube containing stabilizing liquid. You take the swab and run it along your dog’s gums and cheek pockets for 5-10 seconds, fully coating it with saliva. Then, put the swab into the tube and make sure it’s sealed. Lastly, you send it off (shipping is free). The whole process takes about three minutes, and that’s including the sign-up process. From there, you should get your results 4-6 weeks later.

Photo: Gina Vaynshteyn
Photo: Gina Vaynshteyn

We spoke with  Anya Ryan, Head of Marketing at Basepaws, who explained the process even further. “The oral swab that a pet parent uses for our feline and canine DNA tests provides Basepaws with a saliva sample. From this sample we extract DNA and sequence a pet’s genetic material to uncover: 1. A pet’s risk for potentially developing a genetic disease based on the genetic markers we screen for. 2. A pet’s risk (the cat DNA test has this info, the dog DNA test will have it in 2024) for having — at the time of testing — a current, actively developing dental disease that, if left untreated, can lead to other systemic diseases such as diabetes, a heart condition, or kidney disease.”

We asked how exactly Basepaws is able to identify dog breeds, and their team explained that it’s a process of comparing hundreds of different canine breeds in their database. “For our breed analysis, we compare sections of your dog’s DNA to the DNA from over 300 different canine breeds that are in our proprietary canine genomic database and public databases,” Ryan says. “As we make these comparisons, we find regions of similarity and dissimilarity between your dog’s DNA and the DNA of the dogs in these databases.”

Ryan adds, “Based on this comprehensive analysis of your dog’s DNA, we display your dog’s top breed matches. Each match is associated with what we call a ‘breed similarity score.’ This is simply a ranking system to reflect the level of similarity that your dog’s DNA shares with each of their breed matches, starting with the highest level of shared similarity they have with a particular breed, down to the lowest level of shared similarity. Genomic similarity is rated on a scale of 0 to 10.”

While it’s great to know more about your dog, the best use this kit has is actually for their health. “DNA testing your pet is more for potential health risks than breed. In these cases, breed similarities have little value other than for ‘fun.’ It’s more important to identify any potential genetic mutations so lifestyle changes, vigilant monitoring, or medical interventions can be pursued,” Ryan says, adding, “The genetic health section of your dog’s report indicates the diseases that they have clear, carrier, or at-risk results for. Taken together, your dog’s breed plus health results help you to get a glimpse into their genomic similarity to different breeds and the genetic health conditions that they may be at risk for.”

My Honest Review of Basepaws Breed + Health Dog DNA Test

Taking Pepper’s sample and completing the process so I can send off my Basepaws Breed + Health Dog DNA Test was simple and really quick. The instructions are easy to follow and also include illustrations, which I was thankful for, because the swabbing part kind of freaked Pepper out. While the swab shouldn’t hurt (it’s just a soft cotton swab), she didn’t like how it felt, and certainly made that very known. I rubbed the cotton swab along her gums — both sides, for good measure — for 10 seconds. Sealing the tube and packing it back into the box the tools came from took a couple minutes.

Photo: Gina Vaynshteyn
Photo: Gina Vaynshteyn

I mailed the DNA kit on October 31, and on November 2, I got an email saying Pepper’s kit has been received. On November 16, I received an email letting me know that her DNA sample was being sequenced (this is where DNA is analyzed). The next time I got an update from the Basepaws team was December 15 — about six weeks after I sent in the kit. Unfortunately, Pepper’s sample got contaminated somehow. It may have been due to food she still had in her mouth (I tried to make sure she didn’t eat anything for at least a couple hours before I collected the sample, but it’s very possible she found a “snack”). Samples can also get compromised if your dog is taking any meds. Pepper wasn’t, so I don’t think that was the case here.

With this update, Basepaws recommended they send a replacement kit completely free of charge, which I opted for. The kit arrived 2-3 days later, and we plan on re-taking the sample. While I’m bummed I didn’t get Pepper’s results — because I truly am excited to see what her breed traits and genetic health markers are so that we can be as proactive about her health and wellness as possible — I’m really impressed the Basepaws team came up with a solution right away.

What Makes Basepaws Breed + Health Dog DNA Test So Cool

While I’m definitely curious if Pepper indeed is a German Shepherd-Cane Corso mix (and if she’s perhaps a mix of other breeds, she certainly has the cuddly-ness of a lab), I’m mostly interested in her genetic health markers. With two large breeds, I’ve done extensive research on behavioral traits as well as common health concerns as they get older, so that I can train them properly and give them the nutrients and care for a (long!) life well-lived.

For example, large breeds can develop joint and hip issues, so my two get vitamin “treats” every day with their dinner. And they’re always up-to-date on their annual vet visits and vaccinations. But if there’s more I can do, you bet I’m doing it, which is why I was really excited to try Basepaws.

Basepaws has partnerships with veterinary professionals and university researchers, which allows them to collect clinical data and studies, and get samples from pets that match study criteria. They’ve also done studies of their own, using Basepaws customer data (with their consent!). All this to say: Basepaws has a breadth of knowledge and data it uses to sequence samples and give pet parents actually helpful results they can put into action. Results can indicate increased risk for specific diseases so that pets can get the care they need earlier on — when it matters most.

Dogs are only with us for such a short time — and large dogs get the shortest lifespan of all. I know I want to make sure mine live their fullest, longest, healthiest life — and that they’re happy every day. Stay tuned for Pepper’s results! I’ll be sharing everything I receive from the Basepaws team, and what my next steps for her may be.

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Shoppers Say This $3 Crinkle Toy Is Their Picky Cat's 'Favorite’ https://www.sheknows.com/living/articles/2714193/petlinks-hypernip-catnip-cat-toy/ https://www.sheknows.com/living/articles/2714193/petlinks-hypernip-catnip-cat-toy/#respond Sun, 17 Dec 2023 16:35:00 +0000 https://www.sheknows.com/?p=2714193 If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, SheKnows may receive an affiliate commission.

Our fur babies deserve the absolute best. We’re always in search of top-of-the-line food, beds, and especially toys to spoil our four-legged family members. And if you’re a cat owner, do we have a fun new toy for you. Reviewers, and their cats, are loving this multi-textured toy with catnip to keep your kitty entertained, and it’s currently just $3 on Amazon.

Petlinks HappyNip Crinkle Chameleon cat toy is made with your rambunctious kitty cat in mind. Your cat’s senses will be completely engaged and heightened thanks to the varying textures on this toy, including felt, burlap, ribbon and more. Plus, there’s a pungent scent your cat will absolutely love. That’s right, this toy is embedded with catnip and silvervine, so your kitty won’t be able to put it down.

Image: Petlinks via Amazon.
Buy: Petlinks HappyNip Crinkle Chameleon Cat Toy $3.74

For just $3.74, your fabulous feline will get a lot of play out of this toy. But we understand if you’re skeptical. So why not hear from cat owners themselves? “My cat Sora doesnt [SIC, doesn’t] like toys, treats or even catnip but she loves this chameleon,” on reviewer wrote. “It’s hard to find toys that my cat will pay any attention to so I was pleasantly surprised to find that he actually loves this toy,” another said.

There’s no denying that even the pickiest cats seriously love this toy. The little Crinkle Chameleon will quickly become your cat’s new favorite way to play. And for just $3.96, you really can’t beat that. Buy yours today, and your fur baby will thank you.

Before you go, check out our top foolproof cat-approved gifts for your fur baby:

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Amazon's #1 Best-Selling Chuckit! Dog Toy Is on Sale for Just $6 Ahead of the Holidays https://www.sheknows.com/living/articles/2915935/chuckit-dog-toy-sale/ https://www.sheknows.com/living/articles/2915935/chuckit-dog-toy-sale/#respond Thu, 14 Dec 2023 20:25:49 +0000 https://www.sheknows.com/?p=2915935 If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, SheKnows may receive an affiliate commission.

If you’re thinking about what to get your fluffy loved one for the holiday, search no more! The ChuckIt! Ultra Ball is officially on sale for just $6 on Amazon. The #1 bestselling dog toy ball is the perfect toy for your dog to play fetch with over the holidays. Plus, if you’re an Amazon Prime member, it ships for free and you can count on a quick delivery in time for the holidays.

It’s no wonder this ball is rated so highly. It has a super bounce, high durability, and its lightweight design makes it perfect for playing fetch indoors and outdoors. The ratings also show high chewability, which makes it a lasting product and enjoyable for the dog. The ball has various sizes listed under the product, but the medium measures 2.5” in diameter and is made for dogs weighing between 20-60 lbs. 

Amazon's #1 Best-Selling ChuckIt! Dog Toy Is 62% Off

Chuckit! Ultra Ball Dog Toy Pack of 2

$5.30 $13.99 62% off
Buy Now On Amazon

The best thing about this deal (aside from the 62% discount, of course) is that it’s a two-pack so you get two for the low, low price of one.


The ChuckIt! Ultra Ball has received raving reviews, with 4.8 stars and over 167,000 customer ratings. One customer wrote that the balls are not like tennis balls and that their dog “LOVES them” and chases the ball around during every bathroom visit outside. Customers also highlighted the cleanliness of the ball. One customer wrote, “hands don’t get dirty from throwing the ball. These are SO much better than stinky, moldy, filthy tennis balls”. Not only is the ChuckIt! Ultra Ball a fun and durable toy marked at a low price, but it’s easy to clean, which makes it difficult to turn down for dog owners who clean enough messes as is.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below:

best online dog food

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Pet Owners Say Their Senior Cats ‘Took Right To’ This Silent-Running Cat Fountain That’s 40% Off This Weekend https://www.sheknows.com/living/articles/2912550/kittyspout-water-fountain/ https://www.sheknows.com/living/articles/2912550/kittyspout-water-fountain/#respond Sun, 10 Dec 2023 17:39:16 +0000 https://www.sheknows.com/?p=2912550 If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, SheKnows may receive an affiliate commission.

Of all the names on your holiday gift list, we’re sure it’s populated by…humans. Well, get ready to add a name or two of the four-legged family member in your life because, for pet parents of cats, we just found the purrfect holiday gift. We tracked down the amazing kitty fountain that’s up to 40 percent off just in time for the final days of holiday shopping.

Once your pretty kitty uses The KittySpout, they’ll never stop. This drinking fountain, courtesy of the KittySpout brand, entices your cat to drink more water with it’s easy straw-like fountain. The KittySpout is easy to clean, super quiet, and features a sleek design ideal for any home.

KittySpout Water Fountain: 40% Off for a Silent Cat Drinking Fountain

The KittySpout

$79.95 $135.95 41% off
Buy Now


We’ve never seen a contraption like this. And there’s a reason The KittySpout is a favorite among shoppers. Don’t believe us? Just read on to learn more: “Ok, so my lil spoiled brat will only drink from the sink faucets. I always have to stand there forever and wait for her to finish so I can turn the water off. So I found the KittySpout which resembled a faucet the closest. I literally just got it and set it up and she took right to it,” one shopper wrote in their five-star review.

“My cats love this new water fountain,” another shopper said. “My cat seems to love the interactive aspect of the kit, and I’m delighted to see her enjoying her water source,” a third shopper wrote. Honestly, we don’t have any further questions. Order your KittySpout today — your cat will thank you.

Before you go, check out our top foolproof cat-approved gifts for your fur baby:

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Senior Cats ‘Literally Love’ This 17-Pack of Holiday-Themed Cat Toys That Are Only $9 Right Now https://www.sheknows.com/living/articles/2912206/chiwava-17-pack-christmas-cat-toy-gifts/ https://www.sheknows.com/living/articles/2912206/chiwava-17-pack-christmas-cat-toy-gifts/#respond Sat, 09 Dec 2023 14:58:08 +0000 https://www.sheknows.com/?p=2912206 If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, SheKnows may receive an affiliate commission.

We’re well into December, and the countdown to Christmas is officially on. By this point, we know you’ve made your list, checked it twice, and determined who’s been naughty and nice. One little loved one who takes up a special line on your list is your sweet fur baby. For pet parents of cats, finding the best cat toys for your four-legged family member is an absolute must. Luckily, we’re here to make holiday shopping easier. We tracked down the Christmas cat toy pack that’s available on Amazon for just $9.

Your cat will have so much fun on Christmas morning thanks to the CHIWAVA 17-Pack Christmas Cat Toy Gifts. This affordable set of toys features Christmas-themed mice, balls, and so much more. The CHIWAVA 17-Pack Christmas Cat Toy Gifts is great for interactive play. Each toy has it’s own unique feel, and a few of them even make sounds. Your pretty kitty will love playing with these toys.

CHIWAVA 17 Pack Christmas Cat Toy Gifts: $9, Senior Cats Love It

CHIWAVA 17 Pack Christmas Cat Toy Gifts

$8.98
Buy Now


The CHIWAVA 17-Pack Christmas Cat Toy Gifts is such a steal at just $9. But we’re sure you’re wondering if it’s really worth it — after all, there’s isn’t that much time left until Christmas. If we can’t convince you, then we’ll let satisfied shoppers speak for themselves: “My cats literally love these toys even my 10 year old car who is not one for playing even enjoyed playing with a particular toy which was the little Christmas tree,” one shopper wrote in their enthusiastic five-star review.

“There were so many toys in the little goodie bag and it was basically already wrapped for my cat for Christmas. He loves his toys, he plays with the little wrapper looking one,” another shopper said. “How can you go wrong with a 17 piece cat toy set? You can’t! I have 4 cats and this was a Christmas gift that they absolutely love,” a third shopper raved. Honestly, this toy pack sounds absolutely purrfect. Add the CHIWAVA 17-Pack Christmas Cat Toy Gifts to your cart today!

Before you go, check out our top foolproof cat-approved gifts for your fur baby:

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Amazon Put Lots of Holiday Dog Toys on Sale Just in Time for Last-Minute Shopping & They're All Under $10 https://www.sheknows.com/living/articles/2911500/holiday-dog-toys-amazon/ https://www.sheknows.com/living/articles/2911500/holiday-dog-toys-amazon/#respond Fri, 08 Dec 2023 16:20:56 +0000 https://www.sheknows.com/?p=2911500 If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, SheKnows may receive an affiliate commission.

There’s one special family member we know you can’t wait to spoil this holiday season. The holidays are the perfect time to treat your sweet fur baby to a fun new toy. For dog parents, that means finding the ideal dog toys that will quickly become your pup’s new favorite playthings. We took the time to scour Amazon and search for the best toys for dogs — and you can get some holiday-themed toys right now for under $10.

These sales came just in time. Christmas is just over two weeks away, and we’re sure you’re crossing off those last-minute gifts before you start wrapping and stuffing stockings. These dog toys are ideal for tough chewers and fans of squeakers. And did we mention these toys are under $10? Shop some of our favorite dog toys for the holidays below!

Holiday Dog Toys on Amazon: Fun Playthings Starting at $10

Apasiri Dog Chew Toy

$7.19 $11.99 40% off
Buy Now

For the aggressive chewers in your life, the Apasiri Dog Chew Toy is the ideal gift this holiday season. This Amazon’s Choice selection is made to withstand even the sharpest teeth. It’s beef-flavored, makes sounds when you shake it, and is a safer alternative to sticks and ropes. Who doesn’t love that?


Holiday Dog Toys on Amazon: Fun Playthings Starting at $10

Keeric Christmas Squeaky Dog Toy

$8.99 $9.59 6% off
Buy Now

If you’re perfect little pooch loves a squeaky toy, we have the ideal one for you. The Keeric Christmas Squeaky Dog Toy will delight your dog all holiday season long. This squeaky toy is designed to look like one of Santa’s reindeer — sort of. The arms and legs are made of strong rope for tug of war. This Amazon’s Choice selection is the perfect holiday surprise for your sweet fur baby.


Holiday Dog Toys on Amazon: Fun Playthings Starting at $10

Zuykjeagle 2-Pack Christmas Dog Squeaky Toys

$7.99 $12.99 38% off
Buy Now

Finally, if one two isn’t enough, why not get two for the price of one? Treat your dog to the Zuykjeagle 2-Pack Christmas Dog Squeaky Toys this holiday season and watch them have a blast with Santa and his reindeer. These plush squeaky toys are a perfect Christmas treat. Squeak this toy on Christmas day and watch your pup go wild!


Before you go, check out our slideshow below:

best online dog food
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We Found the Most Surprising Spot to Buy Pet Toys — & Here Are the Best Under-$5 Picks https://www.sheknows.com/living/articles/2910947/shein-pet-toys/ https://www.sheknows.com/living/articles/2910947/shein-pet-toys/#respond Thu, 07 Dec 2023 16:33:22 +0000 https://www.sheknows.com/?p=2910947 If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, SheKnows may receive an affiliate commission.

If you’re looking to fill your pet’s stocking to the brim this Christmas, then you’re probably looking for toys that are not just fun, but inexpensive. Sure you can look on Amazon and Chewy for pet toys, but an unexpected site where you can pick up toys for cheap is Shein — yup, that Shein! Right now, you can grab toys for both cats and dogs, all for under $5. Here are a few of our favorite Shein pet toys.

There’s just something about these spring toys that drive cats wild, and you can pick up a set of eight from Shein for just over $1. The pack comes with different colored springs that will surely end up in the strangest places all over your house. And as one person noted, they’re the same spring toys you can buy at the pet store, but for a fraction of the price.

“My cat has been carrying these around ever since we got them,” they wrote. “Might get more because my cats lose them all the time!”

We Found the Most Surprising Spot to Buy Pet Toys

8-Piece Set of Random Color Cat Toy Springs

BUY NOW:
$”$1″ $”” ””
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“Great purrrrrchase,” one Shein shopper wrote. “These are legit my cat’s favorite toys. These are the same quality as the ones from the pet store but so much cheaper!”


Available in both blue and pink, this plush octopus is about to become your dog’s new favorite toy. It’s stuffing-free, so you don’t have to worry about your dog eating fuzz, and each tentacle is filled with crinkly plastic to give the toy that irresistible crunchy sound.

We Found the Most Surprising Spot to Buy Pet Toys

Blue Plush Octopus Pet Toy With Sound

BUY NOW:
$”$4″ $”” ””
-With-Sound-For-Indoor-Cats-And-Dogs-p-26380680-cat-2916.html” asin=”” button_layout=”price_outside” version=”2″]

“This is so cute,” one Shein customer wrote. “My dogs loved it.” The octopus’ head also has a squeaker inside, so all your dog’s favorite sounds come in one plush package!


Both you and your pup can get a surprise in the mail when you buy one of these plush toys from Shein. You won’t know which of these cute animal-shaped toys you get until it arrives, and for $3, it’s definitely worth the gamble to see if you get your favorite.

We Found the Most Surprising Spot to Buy Pet Toys

Random Cute Animal-Shaped Plush Toy

BUY NOW:
$”$3″ $”” ””
Shaped-Plush-Toy-For-Dogs-Multicolor-p-12169790-cat-2980.html” asin=”” button_layout=”price_outside” version=”2″]

“Received the yellow duck. I’m pretty sure this is my pup’s favorite toy,” one pet parent wrote. “He chews on it, plays fetch with it, and snuggles with it. I just might have to order a few more! Highly recommend!”


Calling all cats obsessed with laser pointers (and their parents!) — Shein is selling a set of six laser pointers for just $4. You can buy them as singles for just over $1 each, or grab the entire bath of multicolored laser pointers for every room in the house. Your cat will stay entertained all day long.

We Found the Most Surprising Spot to Buy Pet Toys

6-piece 2-in-1 white LED+ Red Laser Pointer

BUY NOW:
$”$4″ $”” ””
ht-torch-key-ring-light-for-cat-kids-p-16644634-cat-2910.html” asin=”” button_layout=”price_outside” version=”2″]

“Kitty’s favorite!!!” one pet parent wrote. “It’s very handy to keep kitty busy for hours.” Each pointer comes with batteries, so you can start playing right away!


Great for dogs who love to tug and chew, this sturdy rope toy comes with a ball that can be filled with treats that will release during play. And according to those who have tried it out, this thing definitely stands up against even the toughest players.

We Found the Most Surprising Spot to Buy Pet Toys

Chewing Rope Knot Toy For Dogs

BUY NOW:
$”$4″ $”” ””
-Food-Dispenser-Ball-For-Medium-Dogs-p-20401459-cat-2916.html” asin=”” button_layout=”price_outside” version=”2″]

“This toy was surprisingly so heavy duty and nice,” one pet parent wrote in their review. “I have a destructive male pitbull who destroys toys in minutes but this toy has been hanging on real well.”


If your cat loves hunting and chasing, this $1 cat toy from Shein is perfect for her. It’s basically a long elastic string with bobbles, bells, and feathers attached to the end. You can stick it to an open doorframe and let your cat go wild. Or, simply pull the length of cord with your hands to entice your cat to chase after it.

We Found the Most Surprising Spot to Buy Pet Toys

Random Hanging Door Cat Teaser Toy

BUY NOW:
$”$1″ $”” ””
ather-And-Sucker-Interactive-Cat-Toy-p-13173047-cat-2910.html” asin=”” button_layout=”price_outside” version=”2″]

“My cat loved this toy sooo much!!” one cat parent wrote. “It’s a little long for the door frame but you can always just pin it up or tape it up.”


Check out all the pet toys Shein has to offer and make this Christmas for your pet the best one yet!

Before you go, check out our top foolproof cat-approved gifts for your fur baby:

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Get Your Pups Something Comfy — There’s a Huge Sale on Furhaven Pet Beds Happening on Amazon https://www.sheknows.com/living/articles/2910853/furhaven-pet-bed-sale/ https://www.sheknows.com/living/articles/2910853/furhaven-pet-bed-sale/#respond Thu, 07 Dec 2023 14:54:56 +0000 https://www.sheknows.com/?p=2910853 If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, SheKnows may receive an affiliate commission.

For many of us, our dogs take up the most space on our Christmas shopping lists. From balls and plushies to treats and accessories, there are just so many dog things to put under the tree. But one item you don’t want to neglect to grab this holiday season is a new dog bed — and that’s because Furhaven, one of the bestselling dog bed brands on Amazon, is having a massive 20-percent off sale right now.

Furhaven has so many comfy dog beds to pick from, including orthopedic beds for senior dogs or pups with achy joints, bolster beds for dogs who like a bit of head support while they snooze, and even cuddler beds that make your dog feel protected and warm.

Check out our favorite picks from the Furhaven sale and see if any of them are up your dog’s alley.

If you have a dog with aches and pains, then the Furhaven Orthopedic Dog Bed with Bolsters will be a great fit for him. The bolsters prop your pup’s head up to align his spine while sleeping and the orthopedic foam cradles stiff joints. This bed comes in various sizes with the large one currently being marked down to just $48.

Shop This Huge Amazon Sale on Furhaven Pet Beds

Furhaven Orthopedic Dog Bed with Bolster

$48 $60 20% off
Buy Now

“My dogs will dig at and try to chew any bed with the ‘egg crate’ foam in it. This bed is more expensive but doesn’t get destroyed,” one pet parent wrote. “The thickness of the foam provides great support for my 70-pound dogs. I would highly recommend! I am honestly too nervous to buy another brand because this bed is SO good. I would sleep on it if I were able to fit. Super comfy and they appreciate the headrests.”


Some dogs prefer sleeping totally flat and just need a bit of cushion without the fuss. If this sounds like your pup, then pick up the mattress-style Furhaven pet bed, currently marked down to just under $36. Like the bolster bed, it also features orthopedic foam, making it a great option for senior dogs who prefer a flatter bed due to poor mobility.

Shop This Huge Amazon Sale on Furhaven Pet Beds

Furhaven Orthopedic Dog Bed

$36 $45 20% off
Buy Now

“I got the Jumbo version for my senior lab who has arthritis (on pain meds and arthritis shots) and he loves it so much I ordered two for the house,” one reviewer said. “We have taken to carrying them around wherever he is now. If he’s in pain and having a hard time settling because of pain, this bed is the only thing that settles him down enough to sleep. Well worth the money and I’m thinking of ordering a third so I don’t have to carry them from room to room.”


And for the small pups who love to snuggle, this nest-like bed from Furhaven is going to become their new favorite place. Thanks to the plush, fiber-filled walls, this bed is also self-warming and the non-skid base keeps the bed in place.

Shop This Huge Amazon Sale on Furhaven Pet Beds

Furhaven 24-inch Round Pet Bed for Indoor Cats & Medium/Small Dogs

$40 $50 20% off
Buy Now

“We have five little dogs and so far two of them regularly occupy this little cuddle bed,” one pet parent said. “For reference, my little chihuahuas are six pounds and under. It’s great quality too, very soft and the seams are tight. Haven’t tried cleaning it yet so no review there. My chi’s think it was a great value for the money.”


Check out the entire sale on Furhaven pet beds here and pick out something your dog will love. He’ll definitely thank you with so many licks!

Before you go, check out our slideshow below:

 

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