Do you have a bunny, Guinea pig, gerbil, hamster, or mouse? If so, you have a very cute little buddy! These tiny furballs may be small, but they’re lots of fun to watch, and can be very charismatic. One thing that all of these smaller animals have in common is the fact that they have open-rooted teeth. That means their teeth never stop growing. In the wild, nibbling on tough roots and plants would wear those choppers down. Pets, however, eat softer diets, so they need lots of chew toys. However, you don’t have to break the bank getting your pint-sized pal suitable playthings. In this article from Fairfield Animal Hospital, your Cy-Fair veterinary hospital, a local vet lists some great DIY toys for pocket pets.

Cardboard Tubes

The cardboard rolls from paper-towel, toilet paper, or wrapping paper rolls can all make great chew toys. You can offer your adorable pet a plain one, but you can also dress them up a bit. Stuff fresh herbs or grass hay inside one, or cut it into rings and reassemble it into a toy ball.

Paper Bag Fun

Paper grocery bags can also be lots of fun for pocket pets. You can make tunnels out of them, or fill them with crumpled-up sheets of plain paper.

Boxes

Cardboard boxes can be quite fun for your pint-sized friend. You can fill one with treats or smaller toys, or use several to make a castle for your tiny pal. Remember to remove anything hazardous, like stickers or staples, first.

Paper

Speaking of plain paper, there are lots of cute things you can do with it. Crumple a sheet up around a yummy treat, or shred several pieces and put them in an empty tissue box. You can also experiment with making paper shapes, like chains or snowflakes. If you’re feeling creative, you can even try your hand at paper origami.

Safety

There are lots of other things you can make for your furry buddy. Many wood, wicker, and cardboard items can make great playthings! Just be sure to never give your cute pet anything that is covered with varnish, stain, glitter, or dye. Items with small parts, sharp edges, or hanging threads should also be avoided. Do you have any questions about pocket pet care? Contact us here at Fairfield Animal Hospital, your Cy-Fair animal clinic, today!