Thoughtful Christmas Gifts You Can Make for the Pets in Your Life

Christmas isn’t just for the humans in your family, it’s a magical time for our animal companions too. 

Whether your loved ones have cats, dogs, rabbits, guinea pigs, or feathered friends, handmade gifts add a personal touch that shop-bought items just can’t match. 

Thoughtful, budget-friendly, and wonderfully festive, these creations show genuine care for both pets and their owners.

Here are some charming homemade gift ideas that are safe, practical, and guaranteed to delight any pet this Christmas.

1. Cosy Pet Blankets

A soft blanket is always appreciated, especially in colder weather.

Use fleece, which is warm and doesn’t fray.

Choose Christmas patterns — snowflakes, tartan, or adorable reindeer prints.

Cut two pieces, stitch them together, or simply knot the edges if sewing isn’t your strength.

Perfect for: dogs, cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs.

2. Homemade Pet Treats

Edible gifts are a hit — just be sure to tailor the recipe to the animal.

For dogs

Try simple baked biscuits using oats, peanut butter (xylitol-free), wholemeal flour, and a little water.

For cats

Use tinned fish, egg, and a touch of flour to make small savoury bites.

For small animals

Rabbits and guinea pigs love baked hay treats mixed with grated carrot and mashed banana.

Package them in a festive tin or jar for an extra Christmassy touch.

3. DIY Catnip or Herb-Stuffed Toys

Cats adore catnip, and many small pets enjoy dried herbs such as parsley, chamomile, or mint.

Sew a simple shape (star, stocking, or gingerbread man) from cotton fabric.

Fill with toy stuffing and catnip or pet-safe dried herbs.

Add a small bell inside only if the pet isn’t likely to chew through it.

These make brilliant stocking fillers.

4. Simple Rope Tug Toys for Dogs

If you’ve got spare cotton or fleece fabric, you can braid your own tug toy.

Cut long strips of old T-shirts or fleece.

Braid tightly and knot at both ends.

Make sure the final toy is sturdy and free of loose threads.

It’s eco-friendly, inexpensive, and dogs love them.

5. Personalised Feeding Mats

Turn a basic non-slip mat into something special.

Use non-toxic fabric markers or stencils to decorate with the pet’s name.

Draw festive pawprints, baubles, or snowflakes.

Finish with a quick spray of pet-safe sealant.

It looks charming under their food bowls and is very practical for owners.

6. Homemade Bird Feeders

For those who keep garden birds (or who simply love wildlife), handmade feeders bring joy well beyond Christmas Day.

Use pinecones coated in peanut butter and rolled in birdseed.

Tie with a festive ribbon and hang outdoors.

For aviary birds, craft millet garlands or safe wooden perches.

It’s a lovely gift for nature lovers.

7. Cardboard Maze for Small Pets

Guinea pigs, hamsters, and rabbits enjoy mental stimulation, and cardboard is an inexpensive material.

Use delivery boxes to build tunnels, hideouts, and simple mazes.

Decorate with non-toxic markers.

Add hay, treats, or chew toys inside.

It’s a brilliant enrichment gift.

8. Pet Photo Ornaments

This gift is more for the owners — but still celebrates the pet.

Print a favourite pet photo.

Mount it on sturdy card, add decorations, and punch a hole for ribbon.

Create one each year as a growing Christmas tradition.

It’s heartfelt and beautifully personal.

Tips for Safe Homemade Pet Gifts

Always use non-toxic materials.

Avoid small parts that could be swallowed.

Keep food treats simple and species-appropriate.

When in doubt, check with the pet’s owner about allergies or sensitivities.

Homemade pet gifts are a wonderful way to spread Christmas cheer. They’re thoughtful, sustainable, and often far more meaningful than something purchased in a hurry. 

Whether you’re crafting a warm blanket, baking treats, or creating toys from leftover fabric, your effort shows just how much you care.

This Christmas, bring joy not just to friends and family, but to their furry, feathered, and be-whiskered companions too.

Twelve Dog Days of Christmas? Buying Christmas gifts for your pets is not unusual

Love them, can’t leave them – why 60% of pet owners always spend Christmas with their pets.

Spending Christmas away from home, either with family or friends or perhaps an Airbnb for a change of scene, is a growing trend and with it comes the opportunity to bring a beloved pet. 

A new survey by Animed, the online pet care retailer, shows 70% of pet owners want to spend Christmas with their pet and 60% couldn’t imagine of leaving them behind.

With Airbnb reporting a 30% increase in searches for pet-friendly properties, it seems like British pet lovers want their furry friends with them over the festive period. 

This is reflected in increased sales of canine and feline advent calendars, Christmas stockings and baubles, up a staggering 115% on last year. 

“We love our pets and they give us such a lot throughout the year in terms of companionship so it’s not surprising that we don’t want to leaves them behind at Christmas”, Animed vet Jess Simmonds told That's Christmas 365. 

“Instead, we want to involve them in the festivities, from buying a Christmas stocking to a special Christmas lunch. It’s our way of saying thank you”.

 Here are the 12 ways we Brits spoil our pets at Christmas:

1. 76% buy their pet a gift

2. 72% curl up and watch a Christmas movie together

3. 69% buy a special Christmas toy

4. 45% of pampered pets have their own Christmas stocking

5. 42% include their pet in the family Christmas card

6. 33% buy a novelty jumper or collar for their pet

7. 31% give presents from their pet to family members

8. 32% share a special walk on Christmas Day

9. 29% book a pet-friendly getaway

10. 28% allow their pets to join in with their Christmas dinner

11. 27% indulge their pet with festive-themed treats 

12. 16% would buy a personalised novelty tree decoration of their pet

With all the festive cheer floating around, it’s hard not to go the extra mile with treats and goodies for our furry companions. 

It’s a wonderful way to say thank you for all their love and loyalty over the year and to make them feel the cherished member of the family they are. 

www.animed.co.uk

How to Keep Your Christmas Tree and Decorations Safe for Cats, Dogs and Pet Birds

The festive season is a time of twinkling lights, shiny baubles and all things merry, but if you share your home with curious cats, playful dogs or inquisitive birds, Christmas can also bring unexpected hazards. 

From toxic plants to tempting tinsel, it’s vital to make your Christmas décor as pet-safe as possible while still keeping your home beautifully festive.

Here’s how to create a magical, and safe, Christmas wonderland for everyone in your household, paws, claws and feathers included.

Choose a Pet-Safe Christmas Tree

Real Trees:

Pine and fir trees aren’t toxic to most pets, but the oils in their needles can cause mild irritation or tummy upsets if chewed. The sharp needles themselves can also puncture paws or throats. If you go for a real tree, vacuum regularly and cover the water reservoir at the base — the stagnant water can contain bacteria, fertiliser or tree sap that’s harmful if lapped up by your pets.

Artificial Trees:

Artificial trees can be safer overall, but still watch for chew-happy pets. Make sure the base is sturdy to prevent tipping, and secure the tree to the wall or ceiling if your cat is a climber.

Pet-Proof Your Decorations

Tinsel & Ribbons:

Shiny, string-like decorations are irresistible to cats and can be deadly if swallowed. Skip tinsel entirely, or use it high out of reach. Avoid string, ribbon or angel hair, and choose thicker garlands instead.

Baubles:

Glass baubles look lovely but can shatter into sharp shards. Opt for shatterproof or fabric ornaments instead. Hang delicate decorations high up and use wire or twist ties rather than string hooks to keep them secure.

Lights:

Dogs and cats love to chew cords. Use cable protectors or cover wires with split tubing, and always switch lights off when you’re not home. 

For birds, ensure fairy lights are well out of reach, parrots and parakeets are notorious for chewing cables!

Candles:

Never leave candles unattended, wagging tails and flapping wings can easily knock them over. Battery-operated LED candles create a safe, realistic glow. 

Beware of Toxic Plants

Many festive plants are toxic to pets — here’s a quick guide:

Poinsettia: Mildly toxic to cats and dogs; can cause drooling, vomiting or irritation.

Holly & Ivy: Both are highly toxic and can cause serious illness.

Mistletoe: Very dangerous to dogs and cats; even small amounts can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea or collapse.

Lilies: Extremely toxic to cats – even a small amount can cause kidney failure.

Christmas Trees (needles & water): As mentioned, mild irritation or digestive upset possible.

Tip: Choose silk or artificial versions of these plants to enjoy the look without the risk.

For a full list of common festive plants and their effects on pets, see the PDSA’s Poisons and Hazards for Pets guide

Special Tips for Bird Owners

Birds are especially sensitive to fumes and chemicals. Keep these safety tips in mind:

Avoid aerosol sprays, air fresheners and scented candles, especially those with essential oils — they can be deadly to pet birds.

Skip tinsel and glittery ornaments, as shiny materials can attract birds who might chew or ingest them.

Be careful with non-stick cookware when preparing Christmas dinner — Teflon fumes are fatal to birds.

The Blue Cross Pet Holiday Safety Guide

 includes additional advice for keeping your pets comfortable and secure during the festive season.

Don’t Forget Pet-Safe Treats

Christmas food is rich and delicious — but not always safe for pets.

Avoid sharing:

Chocolate (toxic to dogs, cats and birds)

Christmas pudding, mince pies or fruit cake (raisins, alcohol and spices are dangerous)

Onions, garlic and salty snacks

Instead, make (or buy) special pet-safe treats so your furry and feathered family members can celebrate too.

A Safe and Sparkling Christmas

With a few adjustments, your Christmas home can be both festive and safe. Secure your tree, avoid toxic plants, keep cords and fragile ornaments out of reach, and always supervise your pets around decorations.

Because the best part of Christmas isn’t the lights or the tinsel — it’s spending the season with those you love, both human and animal.

Further Reading:

PDSA: Poisons and Hazards for Pets https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/all-pets/poisons-and-hazards-for-your-pets

Blue Cross: Pet Holiday Safety Tips https://www.bluecross.org.uk/petholiday

RSPCA: Christmas Pet Safety Advice https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/general/christmas

FeatherSnap: Your Window to the Wild This Christmas

If you have avid bird spotters in your life who you are wondering what to buy them for Christmas, then That's Christmas 365 has found you the perfect gift.

Meet FeatherSnap the amazing device that transforms birdwatching into an interactive, tech-powered experience that they and their whole family can enjoy. Key features include:

• Capture stunning high-resolution photos and videos of every bird that visits their garden.

• Offers Real-time motion alerts – never miss a moment, no matter where they are.

• They can Curate their own Bird Book, collecting photos and videos of visiting species.

• Discover fascinating bird facts as they watch.

• AI-powered bird ID to help spot and identify even the trickiest of species.

• Achievement badges unlock as they progress on their birding journey.

• Solar panel roof for extended battery life.

• Built to withstand the elements for reliable, year-round performance.

Courtesy Heather Osborn

Gift Subscription Bundle:

Give them the gift of a year-round birding adventure!

• FeatherSnap Scout – RRP £159.99

• FeatherSnap Wi-Fi Subscription – £5.99/month or £49.99/year

The subscription unlocks full app functionality, including real-time alerts, species ID, and Bird Book collection.

Perfect for nature lovers, tech enthusiasts, or anyone who’d love a window to the wild this Christmas.

Explore more: https://uk.feathersnapcam.com

How to Give Your Pet Bird, Cat, or Dog a Merry Yet Safe Christmas

The festive season is a magical time of year, and as you prepare your home for Christmas, it's important to ensure that your pets can enjoy the celebrations safely too. 

Whether you have a playful dog, a curious cat, or a chirpy bird, a few thoughtful adjustments can help make the holiday season joyful for all. Here are some tips to ensure your pets have a merry yet safe Christmas.

1. Keep Decorations Pet-Friendly

Christmas Trees and Lights: For many, the Christmas tree is the centrepiece of holiday décor, but it can be a source of fascination — and potential danger — for pets. Cats, in particular, love to climb trees, and dogs may be tempted to chew on branches. Secure your tree well to avoid it toppling over, especially if your pets are rambunctious. Avoid placing decorations like glass baubles and tinsel at the bottom where they can easily be knocked off and broken, posing a risk of injury or ingestion.

Lights, especially twinkling ones, can attract pets, so ensure electrical wires are hidden or secured out of reach to avoid curious nibbles. Consider using battery-operated lights to reduce the risk of electric shocks.

Pet-Safe Ornaments: Avoid hanging ornaments made of fragile materials or those that resemble food. Cats might bat at shiny objects, and dogs may think they're edible. Opt for pet-safe, non-toxic decorations instead, and avoid using hooks that can easily come loose. Ribbons and tinsel should also be avoided, as they can cause choking or blockages if swallowed.

2. Watch Out for Toxic Foods and Plants

Holiday Foods: Christmas is a time for indulgence, but many festive treats can be harmful to pets. Chocolate, mince pies, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and certain nuts are toxic to both dogs and cats. 

Make sure to keep platters of food and sweets out of reach and avoid giving your pet any human food unless you know it's safe.

Birds, too, have sensitive digestive systems, so be mindful of what they’re exposed to. While some fruits and vegetables can be safe, others like avocado, chocolate, and caffeine are toxic for them. It’s always best to stick to bird-safe treats.

Festive Plants: While plants like poinsettias, mistletoe, and holly add to the festive atmosphere, they can be toxic if ingested by pets. Cats and dogs are naturally curious and may be tempted to nibble on them. Consider using artificial alternatives or placing these plants where your pets can’t reach them.

3. Provide a Quiet Space

Christmas can be hectic, with lots of visitors, loud music, and unfamiliar faces, which might overwhelm your pets. Dogs may become anxious, and cats might hide for hours. Even birds, accustomed to quieter environments, can become stressed by sudden noises.

Ensure your pets have a quiet, comfortable retreat where they can escape the commotion. A separate room with their favourite bed, toys, and perhaps some soothing music or a cosy nest for birds will allow them to relax and feel secure amidst the holiday hustle and bustle.

4. Pet-Safe Presents

When shopping for your family and friends, don’t forget your pets! However, be mindful when selecting presents for them. For dogs and cats, avoid toys with small, easily detachable parts that could be swallowed or sharp edges that could cause injury. Stick to durable toys designed specifically for pets, such as chew toys for dogs or catnip toys for your feline friend.

If you have a bird, be sure to choose non-toxic, bird-safe toys made of materials like untreated wood or natural fibres. Avoid toys with loose strings or those that can easily break apart.

5. Monitor Candles and Open Flames

Candles add a lovely warm glow to the Christmas atmosphere, but they can be dangerous in homes with pets. A curious cat could easily knock over a lit candle, or a dog’s wagging tail might catch on fire. If you must use candles, place them on high shelves and never leave them unattended. Better yet, consider using battery-operated LED candles to achieve the same effect without the fire hazard.

6. Stick to a Routine

Pets thrive on routine, and the Christmas season can often throw that off. With guests coming and going, irregular meal times, and the disruption of regular walks or playtime, pets may feel stressed or anxious. Try to maintain your pet’s usual routine as much as possible. Feed them at the same time each day, ensure your dog gets their regular walks, and give your cat or bird plenty of attention.

7. Keep Wrapping Paper and Ribbons Out of Reach

Unwrapping presents on Christmas morning is always exciting, but it can also be a hazard for pets. Cats love to play with ribbons and string, but if swallowed, they can cause digestive blockages. Dogs might chew on discarded wrapping paper or plastic packaging, which can also pose a choking hazard.

Be sure to tidy up discarded wrapping paper, bows, and ribbons as soon as possible. Dispose of any materials that could be dangerous to your pets.

8. Travel Safely with Pets

If you’re travelling for the holidays and plan to bring your pets along, ensure they’re safe and comfortable. Dogs should be secured in a seatbelt harness or a crate, and cats should always travel in a well-ventilated carrier. Birds can be transported in travel cages, but ensure the cage is secure and well-padded to prevent injury during the journey. Pack their food, water, and any comfort items from home, such as their favourite toy or blanket.

Conclusion

Christmas is a time for togetherness, and your pets are part of the family. By being mindful of potential hazards and making small adjustments, you can ensure that your cat, dog, or bird enjoys the festive season as much as you do. With a little preparation, your pets can have a merry — and safe — Christmas too!