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Our pets are part of the family – 36% of households in the UK own a dog, and about 29% a cat – so it’s no wonder that we want to treat them at Christmas. Many will undoubtedly enjoy the paper you wrap the present in as much as what’s inside, yet it’s still worth making the effort to find that perfect (pawfect?) gift.
As an owner of two dogs, I like to make informed choices about what I buy them; I try to avoid plastic where I can (especially since the whippet loves to destroy a plastic toy), but it’s not always possible, and some of the products below do contain plastic. I opt for robust collars and leads (the brand mentioned here also runs a take-back scheme for worn-out gear), and hunt down independent companies instead of big brands. Ultimately, design-led, natural products will usually look better around your house and, in my experience, last longer.
The best Christmas gifts for pets
Leader of the pack
Two-tone lead
Handmade in Kent, these durable collars, leads and harnesses – made from brass and a hard-wearing woven polypropylene in a huge range of colours – will garner all the compliments. I’m especially keen on the two-tone designs, complete with a comfy fleece-lined handle.
Pleased to be teased
Cat teaser
The Sprouty McSprout Face is a natural toy for curious cats made from wool felt, jute string and a bamboo stick, with added catnip for a special Christmas treat. It’s part of a range that also includes festive Santas, figgy puddings, penguins and reindeer designs.
Food, glorious food
Striped dog bowl
If you’ve ever struggled to find a stylish dog bowl (they’re on show all the time, after all), look no further. These from Cornishware are available in five colours, and you can personalise them with your dog’s name.
Cat naps on high
Desk-mounted cat bed
Arguably a gift for yourself as much as your furry friend, these sleek beds are made using sustainably sourced materials and a tree is planted for every one bought. An especially nice WFH desk accessory, with added cat for company.
No … jacket required
Recycled fleece dog coat
Warm, waterproof, washable and fast-drying, these dog coats are made from recycled polar fleece and come in various dog shapes and sizes. The handy back zip is essential when disrobing a wet, muddy pooch after a romp in the great outdoors.
Chew this over
Foraging wobblers for guinea pigs
Made from coconut shell, corn leaf and paper, these plastic-free stimulating wobbler toys encourage guinea pigs, rabbits and other small pets to forage and gnaw.
All decked out
DJ cat scratcher
This mixing deck, which is made from cardboard, comes into its own when your cat goes all Grandmaster Flash and starts scratching it. It has a spinning deck and movable arm, so it doubles as a toy, besides being a great way to keep their claws trim.
Say bye to tennis balls
Rope fetch ball
The ideal gift for the dog that litters your garden with destroyed tennis ball plastic detritus. Made from 100% unbleached cotton, it’s handmade in Bristol using knotting and weaving techniques that involve no harmful glues, dyes or fixing agents.
Pop ya collar
Cork cat collar
Lightweight cork, which is rot-proof and hypoallergenic, is also one of the most sustainable materials around, since it can only be harvested every nine to 12 years while the tree is still standing (which could be for as long as 300 years). These cool collars, which have a safety breakaway buckle and natty green jingle bell, are hand-crafted in Nottinghamshire.
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Fancy a chew?
Dog-chew holder
This natural rubber chew holder will slow down greedy dogs, keeping them busy for longer and cleaning their teeth as they gnaw on the ridged design. Ideal for holding healthy treats, such as yak chews.
Fine feline dining
Natural cat food subscription
The gift that keeps on giving: KatKin offers personalised plans for your cat to enjoy its food and treats well beyond Christmas, all made with top-quality meat and fish.
Bunny business
Nourishing rabbit nibbles, pack of four
These pretty rolls are made from hay and stuffed with marigold, cornflower, apple and carrot. A special treat for rabbits that will keep them occupied and enrich their diet.
Sleeping houndly
Snazzy dog bed
These joyful, limited-edition beds are made from organic cotton and packed with recycled polyester. If you’re thinking the print would also look great on some (human) bed linen, you’re in luck – see Irregular Sleep Pattern’s sleepwear and shower curtains for details.
Claws and effect
Bamboo cat toy
The balls on this two-tier bamboo game mimic prey, which will keep kittens and cats amused for hours, as well as helping prevent destructive behaviour. It also looks rather nice.
Snack attack
Peanut butter flavour dog paw treats
Made on a Lincolnshire farm using natural ingredients, these tubs of treats come in various shapes and flavours. Baked especially for the Dogg Shop, an independent store in Ramsgate.
And for dog and cat lovers …
Hats off to dogs
Baseball cap
Made from organic cotton and recycled plastic, this embroidered cap is for anyone who stops to smile at strangers’ dogs in the street or finds themselves gazing at their own pooch when they really should be working from home. Available in five colours.
Muggins here
Cat mug
This delightful vessel is the result of a collaboration between design studio Magpie and the mid-century British heritage brand Hornsea Potteries. Magpie has vegan ethics and all of its products are produced cruelty-free.
Hannah Rochell is a fashion features journalist who specialises in writing about – and experiencing – slow, comfortable style and living on her Substack Slowette. This involves everything from investing heavily in elastic waist linen trousers to testing out the most comfortable and durable boots to wear while walking her dogs, Grenson the miniature schnauzer and Basil the whippet
