Pet owners spend more on dogs at Christmas leaving cats short-changed

Dogs are set to have 27% more spent on them this Christmas than cats, research has revealed.

A poll of more than 2,000 pet owners found moggies will typically receive £19 worth of gifts while pampered pooches will benefit to the tune of £25.

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Chew toys top the Christmas list for dogs this year, with many likely to get a new snuggly blanket and their own turkey dinner to enjoy on the big day.

Whereas cats are most likely to receive new toys and scratching posts under the tree.

Eight in 10 owners believe their pets deserve presents because they are part of the family.

And one in three will be buying a pet stocking this year – and spending more than half an hour seeking out the perfect pet present.

Sophie Burton, pet gifting buyer at John Lewis ,which sold out of its dog advent calendars in mid-November, 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 stories looking for that perfect gift for their cats and dogs – and we are always delighted to help them find that special something for them.”

It emerged cats are the harder pet to buy for with just 10 % saying they are easy to shop for.

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.

But with the Christmas shopping season well under way, 48% reckon they’ve already bagged the perfect gift for their pet.

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.

Despite this, 72% think having a pet makes the Christmas celebrations more special – with many sharing festive traditions with them.

Almost a quarter (23%) will be cooking them a special meal and 16% will curl up on the sofa to watch festive flicks with them.

A Christmas Eve movie night is a firm favourite for many families, as well as the trend of matching family pyjamas grows – which John Lewis has reported a 29% increase in search for this year.

More than one in 10 (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.

How to keep pets safe and happy at Christmas

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 electric wires from lights out of sight so your pet isn’t tempted to play with or chew them

Careful of seasonal human festive 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

Be aware of Christmas tree and seasonal plants risks

• Some real Christmas trees 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

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 lick 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 fur on their legs and tummy after a walk or time outside. And 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

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