08 December 2023 , 14:36
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Nearly half of organised pet owners (48%) reckon they have already found the perfect present – for their cat or dog this Christmas, a study has found.
A survey of 2,000 people with animals found that four in five consider their furry friend to be a part of the family – and like to treat them as such, by making sure they have their own gifts under the tree on the big day.
Dog owners are likely to spend up to £25 on their pooch this festive season, with popular presents including chew toys, a new snuggly blanket, or their own turkey dinner to enjoy on Christmas Day.
Meanwhile, cats will be treated to the tune of £19, on average, and are most likely to be gifted new toys, or a scratching post.
It also emerged that 72% feel that Christmas celebrations are made more special when you have a pet to share them with, and to include in the seasonal traditions.
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And those who will be buying presents for their dogs or cats this Yuletide will spend more than half an hour choosing the perfect item – while one in three will even buy a pet stocking.
The research was commissioned by John Lewis, which had sold out of its dog advent calendars by mid-November this year.
But animal lovers will spend more money on presents for dogs - an average of £25, compared to £19 for cats (SWNS)Sophie Burton, pet gifting buyer at the department store, said: “Pets are set for a “pawsome” Christmas this year, as sales of gifts are up 19%.
“It really reveals just how besotted we are with our four-legged friends, as so many want to make them a big part of their festive traditions.
“Everything from edible Christmas cards and chew toys, to litter robots and DIY Cross Stitch collars, has been flying off the shelves this year.
“All throughout the year, we have so many pet parents coming into our stores looking for that perfect gift for their cats and dogs – and we are always delighted to help find that special something for them.”
It emerged cats are the harder pet to buy for, with just 10% saying that finding gifts for their moggies is easy – compared to 35%, who reckon it’s a walk in the park getting pressies for their pooch. That said, 35% think there are more “luxurious” gifts available for toms.
However, cats are also more likely to end up on Santa’s naughty list this Christmas, with 11% saying their behaviour has been less than ideal – whereas just 8% of dogs will find themselves on this list.
Some of the efforts made to include pets at Christmas, are to cook them a special meal (23%), or curling up on the sofa to watch festive flicks with them (16%).
Meanwhile, when it comes to festive family favourites, a Christmas Eve movie night is a must for many families, as well as the trend of matching family pyjamas – which John Lewis has reported a 29% increase in searches for this year.
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And more than a tenth (13%) of those polled, via OnePoll, will wrap up their presents with no tape, so they can unwrap them themselves – while 11% will decorate their sleeping area.
TOP TIPS FROM JOHN LEWIS PET INSURANCE ON HOW TO KEEP PETS SAFE AND HAPPY AT CHRISTMAS:
1. Stay safe around decorations:
- Beware of decorations, ornaments, tinsel, garlands, wreaths, and light bulbs that could be dangerous for your pet – whether they may break and cut their paw, or are at risk of being swallowed and causing digestive problems. Don’t hang these items on low Christmas tree branches, or leave them on low tables
- Be sure to place lit candles in a location where they can’t be knocked over by your pets, or consider using battery-operated candles instead
- Hide electrical wires from lights out of sight, so your pet isn’t tempted to play with or chew them
2. Be careful of seasonal festive human treats, snacks, and meals:
- The nuts and chocolate we eat are toxic for cats and dogs, so don’t be tempted to “treat” them
- Raisins and grapes can cause renal failure in dogs and cats, so don’t leave any lying around
- Don't give your pet turkey or chicken bones, as they could easily choke – remove the meat for them
- Never give animals alcohol
3. Be aware of Christmas tree and seasonal plant risks:
- Some real Christmas tree carry moulds and can cause allergic reactions in dogs, including respiratory problems
- If you have a real tree, keep the water in the base covered up – your pet might try to drink this, which could make them sick
- Seasonal plants like holly, poinsettias, and mistletoe are toxic to pets – if you think they’ve ingested some, look for symptoms like vomiting or breathing problems, and seek veterinary help ASAP
4. Watch out for salt on the roads:
- Cold weather means icy roads, and the salt used to de-ice these roads can be poisonous to pets such as cats and dogs
- If pets like the salt from their paws or fur, even ingesting a small amount can be toxic and very dangerous
- It's important to thoroughly wipe your pet’s feet, and the fur on their legs and tummy, after a walk or time outside. If they’re showing signs of discomfort after possible exposure, use a mild, pet-safe shampoo and warm water, to wash the affected areas
- If you think there's a chance that your pet might have ingested rock salt, then take them to the vet immediately
5. Don't forget your dog's exercise needs:
- While pet owners might be tempted to stay inside, keeping warm and cosy over the festive period, it’s important that dogs stay active – even if they would rather snuggle by the fire and snooze all day
- It's crucial to make sure your pet maintains a regular exercise routine to keep them healthy and happy