Cat Gifting Ideas for Nap Time
Presenting a variety of sleeping options for the discerning felines on your holiday gift-giving list.
Everyone knows cats are the world’s most expert nappers. A perfect gift for the cat who has everything is a new place (or places) to snooze, bathe or just loll about.
Here are some unusual items to maximize a cats’ nap time before and after they’ve indulged in holiday mischief-making.
Catastrophic Creations Cat Bridge
This 70-inch wooden bridge has a raised edge so kitty won’t slip off and a 15-inch platform at each end. The platforms mount with brackets. It is available in nine different finishes and can hold multiple cats. Available from www.catastrophiccreations.com.
Spexpet Gray Shark Bed & Great White Shark Cat Ball® cat
This whimsical cave-like shark-shaped bed has a removable cushion and a waterproof bottom. It is also suitable for small dogs. Made by Spexpet, the Gray Shark BEd is available online from Amazon, Sears and others.
If you prefer a less ferocious-looking shark bed for your cat, check out the Great White Shark Cat Ball bed. The bed features two openings—6-in. and 10-in. in diameter—and fits cats up to approximately 18 pounds. Made with all cotton fabrics, the shark cat bed is machine-washable in cold water. Available from www.thecatball.com
Cat Crib Hammock
This comfy hammock fits under most chairs or small tables and lets kitty stay at the center of the action without getting underfoot. It’s machine washable and is available in purple, light brown or black. Holds cats up to 20 pounds. Available from www.catcrib.com.
Akemi Tanaka Curve Wall-Mounted Cat Bed
This sleek and simple space-saving bed comes in a range of fabrics and woods. Mounting hardware is included. The cover of the snap-on cushion is washable. Available from www.akemitanaka.com.
K&H Manufacturing Mod Dream Pod
This unique, modern-looking yet cozy bed zips together and comes in gray, tan or green with black. It is large enough for any cat and includes a washable polyfil pillow. Available from www.khmfg.com.
Perfect Perch Cat Window Seat
This handmade perch is comprised of pine with a removable strip of soft carpeting. Easy to assemble; attaches to most windowsills using Velcro and an Allen wrench. It’s available in natural, light oak or red oak colors. Available from woodpalette on www.etsy.com.
Cat Head Bed
Your cat can get inside his own head with this eco-friendly handmade felted wool cat bed from AgnesFelt. Made to order in five sizes, the cozy and comfortable bed comes in natural grey with natural white; special colors available on request. The bed is handwashable in warm water with wool-safe detergents. Available from www.etsy.com.
KittiBunk
A modern twist on the classic bunk bed, the KittiBunk provides a comfortable tube for your cat to lie in as well as an ultra-comfortable elevated bed for those lazy sun-tanning days. The cushion-lined tube also provides perfect cover for those sneaky ambush attacks.
Cat’s Trapeze
Combining napping and play, this multi-level “bed” features large soft cushions that provide a cozy place for a cat nap. Made of sturdy cotton fabric, the bed is machine washable and comes in two- or three-pillow styles. Available from www.catstrapeze.us
About the Author: Lisa King is a freelance writer living in Southern California. She is the former managing editor of Pet Product News International, Dogs USA, and Natural Dog magazines. Lisa is also the author of the well-received murder mystery novel “Death in a Wine Dark Sea” and the recently released “Vulture au Vin.”
Buying a collar for your dog can often be like hunting for a pair of shoes for yourself—they must be functional, attractive, dependable and comfortable. Of course, you probably have more than one pair of shoes just as your dog will have more than one collar-and-leash set, but you’re going to have a favored pair you wear every day.
If you have a dog with a long neck (such as a whippet or greyhound) or a generally big dog (such as a rottie or pit), you’ll want a sturdy collar that is extra wide. This helps decrease the amount of pressure on the windpipe and throat when he or she is on leash. I prefer the enduring quality of nylon. It’s strong, long-lasting and soft enough for my big bully dog to wear every day. 
one of my favorite designs (I went with the extra-wide martingale design and it’s held up for more than 2 years). You can choose from premium solid brass or silver hardware. The silver slides are nickel-plated solid brass and the D-ring is nickel-plated welded steel. Starting at $35, they are a bargain as they hold up for a very long time and always look great on a dog.
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The first is made from recycled bicycle tires, the 
The second comes from Planet Dog. It offers a beautiful collar made from hemp and is lined with fleece. While my dogs love the 
The best costume is one your pet doesn’t even notice. These collars do the trick. Made from soft nylon, they are strong, long-lasting and feature adorable designs that you never have to worry about. One of our favorites is the Sleigh Ride Collection from 
Looking for something a little more formal? These 
If you’re into beadwork, not only are the hand-beaded collars from 
Inspired by Planet Dog’s local romping grounds in Portland, Maine, the Orbee-Tuff® Buoy dog toy is designed to be tossed, tugged, fetched, stuffed and floated. Its buoy shape makes for delightfully unpredictable bounces, while the rope allows for easy fetching when on land or at sea. The nontoxic, made-in-the USA dog toy also features a Treat Spot for interactive treat-dispensing fun. Available in red/blue or red/glow, it stands 5-in. high and is rated “4-out-5 chompers” on Planet Dog’s Durability Scale, making it suitable for most chewers. 
P.L.A.Y.’s (Pet Lifestyle And You) new Leeloo Cat Scratcher is designed to spoil your furry friends with multiple angles to scratch and lounge. The stylish cat retreat was created with the fiercest scratchers in mind. Made with FDA-certified corrugated recycled paper, its fiber patterns offer extra durability and prevent excessive fiber shedding. The Leeloo cat scratcher has a reversible, infinity shape to entice your kitty to play or lay, while adding some pizzazz to your home space. Available in two colors: Savannah Gray and Savannah Brown. 
Created as a topping for dog food kibble, Frenchie’s Kitchen’s new Tasty Toppers for Dogs are made with whole food ingredients to provide an added boost of natural vitamins and minerals to a dog’s diet without adding a lot of calories. The toppers are sold frozen and are available in two varieties: Chicken and Veggies Stew, and Grain-Free Turkey and Veggies Stew. As with all Frenchie’s Kitchen products, the toppers are additive- and preservative-free. 
Want to provide your cat with a unique toy and help conserve wildlife at the same time? Then check out this Felted Wool Snake cat toy from the Snow Leopard Trust. Handmade from scraps of felted sheep wool by families in rural Mongolia, the toy helps save snow leopards by providing income to local communities and offering them an alternative to poaching. Available in several color schemes, each snake is approximately 12-in. long and weighs only a few ounces, making it a great toss and bat toy. And, as the hand-processed wool retains the rich fragrance of the sheep’s natural lanolin, no catnip is required. The product is Certified Wildlife Friendly. 
With the holidays fast approaching, you can help your cats get into the festive spirit with these adorable toys from West Paw Design. The Holiday Field Mouse is made from faux fur and features red ears and tail. Filled with USDA-certified organic catnip, it has an engaging bell to keep your cat(s) perpetually entertained. The Holiday Big Sky Mouse’s super soft faux suede comes from bright-red Big Sky Blanket remnants and is also filled with organic catnip and a securely sewn-in bell. 
The 
Based on the CHI human brand, the new CHI for Dogs brand features an array of salon-quality shampoos, conditioners, sprays, wipes and grooming tools. The ergonomically designed tools feature nonslip handles for a comfortable grip. The bath and styling products incorporate ionic technology to seal the hair cuticle, reducing frizz and leaving a shiny coat. The comprehensive line includes Deep Moisture Shampoo, Oatmeal Conditioner, Deodorizing Spray, Ergo Soft Grip Brushes, nail clippers and undercut rakes, to name just a few of the 36 CHI for Dogs products currently available exclusively from 
The Command™ Auto Close Custom Fit Gate is an ideal solution for safe pet containment in extra wide or odd-shaped areas. It can be drilled into the wall (hardware is included), used as a freestanding barrier or converted into a pet yard (with the use of additional extensions). The two-way door features a dual-magnet system that automatically draws the door closed and guarantees it locks with every use. The 30-in. extra wide door also has one-hand operation and a Hold Open Feature that secures the door until it is pushed closed. All panels, including the door section, are interchangeable and can be placed anywhere within the layout of the gate. 
Li’l Chicks are the newest critters to join West Paw Design’s family of cat toys. Filled with organic catnip and a captivating bell, kitty cats will go crazy bouncing and batting these adorable little creatures around. The USDA-certified catnip is grown in the United States, free from synthetic herbicides, pesticides and fertilizers, and 100 percent pure—no fillers. Measuring 2-in. across, the fuzzy little chicks come in assorted colors (hot pink, turquoise, bright yellow, black and light green) and, as with all West Paw Design products, are made in the USA. 
Crazy Dog presents all-new category of dog treats. Walkies Fit Bites are formulated to help keep dogs fit and active with ingredients that benefit heart health and movement. Key ingredients include taurine to support heart health; chicken-cartilage as a source of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate to aid mobility; and L-carnitine to promote weight control and lean muscle preservation. Appropriately shaped like a foot, the treats celebrate the importance of walking and the essential benefits dogs and their owners receive from it. Walkies Fit Bites come in three tempting flavors: Bacon, Beef and Chicken. 
Midwestern Pet Foods’ PRO PAC® Ultimates™ Deep Sea Select™ cat food brings only the finest of fish protein to indoor cats and kittens. High in fiber, it helps meet the unique needs of indoor cats by aiding in the control of hairballs. The grain-free whitefish meal formula is fortified with vitamins E and C along with nutrient-rich natural vegetables and fruits (peas, chickpeas, apples, blueberries, carrots, spinach and cranberries) to help support good digestion and intestinal health. It is also has balanced ratio of omega-6 and -3 fatty acids to help support healthy skin and coat. It is available in 5- and 14-lb bags. 
pawTree® pet stain removing products quickly eliminate stains and odor. Urine Eliminator™ features a special enzymatic formula that breaks down urine proteins, cleaning all the way down to the subfloor, while its unique bacteria blend neutralizes even the toughest odors. , Oxy Shot™ has a powerful oxy formula that penetrates deep and fast to remove permanently the toughest pet and household stains and related odors. Both products are effective on both old and new stains, help prevent repeat marking and are safe to use on carpets, upholstery, hard surfaces, cement and all other water-safe surfaces—they also smell great. 
These new-to-market treats are made with cannabidio (CBD), which is the non-psychoactive part of the cannabis plant. While studies of CBD are just officially beginning, preliminary testing indicates that it can help manage chronic pain and decrease anxiety in pets. 
Glucosamine and chondroitin, which help support joint health, are now routinely included in a variety of pet treats and chews. Engage-ables from 
Bedtime Bones™ are an organic, chamomile bedtime treat for your dog. Chamomile can have a calming effect on pets (just as it does for humans). These crunchy treats come in 30-day boxes, one for each evening. They also make a great gift for small dogs. And for extra environmental consciousness, the packaging is made from recycled materials that are made with wind power.
Arm & Hammer Dual Scrubbers Nubbies dental treats feature “nubbies” and ridges that help scrub away plaque and tartar from a dog’s teeth. Their shape and texture also acts as a tongue scraper, providing dogs with great benefits when it comes to their favorite treat. Just like the original Nubbies, Dual Scrubbers are made with baking soda and chlorophyll for a more complete clean and extra fresh breath. The treats are highly digestible and available in chicken and peanut butter flavors at 
Messy Mutts Silicone Double Feeders for dogs and cats
Orbee-Tuff® Nooks from Planet Dog feature a whimsical shape and a nook, which is perfect for stuffing it with tiny treat bits, peanut butter, cheese or any favorite filling. Available in Yellow Smiley Face, Green Peace sign and a Red Heart, the Nook’s 2.5-inch size also makes the toy a perfect fit for the Orbee-Tuff Snoop® or Wood Chuck®. As with all Orbee-Tuff products, the new dog toys are durable, bouncy, minty and made in the USA. 
Petlinks’ Flitter Fly™ offers a new take on motion cat toys. The whirl-and-catch wind toy blows colorful butterflies and lightweight feathers around a clear bowl with a gentle fan that’s safe for cats. Cats delight in poking a paw through the top opening, trying to catch the swirling butterflies or flying feathers. The variable speed fan speeds up, slows down and occasionally stops to keep cats entranced, and the timed auto-shutoff feature helps preserve the life of the included replaceable batteries. Sprinkle in a bit of the complimentary Pure Bliss™ organic catnip into the bowl to ramp up the excitement of playtime. 
Richell USA’s new Flip To Play Pet Crate is an ideal way to provide your dog with a crate as well as a separate playpen area. As a crate, the Flip To Play offers a secure area with a built-in wire top and lockable doggy door, which can be secured with a latch to stay open at 180 degrees. To use the play area, simply flip the top outward for a separate playpen. You can also close the doggy door to create a divider between the crate and play area. The new crate comes with a sliding tray that is easy to take out for cleaning, and a stopper keeps it in place when your dog is using the crate. 
Give your cats something to swoon over with Pioneer Pets Nip Nibblers. The deceptively simple-looking cat toys combine irresistible catnip with a fun texture to captivate cats’ attention. The durable, 5-inch-long nylon pouches release just the right amount of catnip when chewed, squeezed or kicked. Safe and nontoxic, the Nip Nibblers come three to a pack. 
Beco Pets’ eco-friendly cat toys are made from recycled plastic bottles, stuffed with alluring catnip, double stitched for extra durability and look adorably cute. Whether your cat prefers Bertie the Budgie, Millie the Mouse or Freddie the Fish, the toys can provide hours of chasing and cuddling fun. 
Chuckit! offers a new way to play with your dog. The Ultra Sling is a versatile fetch device for long or short distances—its range is adjustable for small yards or open parks. There are four Ultra Dart styles—Spin (included with the Ultra Sling), Speed, Rugged and Float—and one Ultra Wing. The Spin and Speed come in three colors—blue/white, orange/white and green/white—and the Rugged and Float come in high-visibility orange. 
Feline Yogi’s Yoga Cat Mat is a great, no-mess place for cats to scratch and sharpen claws as well as lounge around while showing off their most sophisticated yoga poses. Handmade from traditional human yoga mat material, the mats have an attached sisal rope with a catnip-filled natural twine ball at the end to help keep cats from becoming bored. The mat can also be used to serve catnip and treats without messing up carpets or floors. Measuring 17x 24x ¼-in., it is water-resistant and wipes clean easily. 
Tiger Seamz stuffed dog toys from Outward Hound feature flat, striped seatbelt seams, extra-strong Kevlar-reinforced stitching, mega-soft stuffing and Invincibles squeakers that keep squeaking even when punctured. These adorable toys could become your best friend’s favorites; they are durably designed in an engaging array of shapes, sounds, textures and shapes—squirrel, gator, elephant, fox, tiger, duck and owl. 
P.L.A.Y.’s Purr & Pounce cat tunnel combines fun and luxury. The tunnel’s durable fabric incorporates crinkle paper and features a super-soft plush interior, a whimsical peephole for spying on humans and an interactive hanging mouse with a catnip pouch that will leave cats purring for more. The tunnel is light, portable and collapsible for easy storage and comes in two colors: sepia/espresso and ash gray/chocolate. 
Richell’s Easy-Clean Pet Crate helps make cleaning up after your dog easier than ever. The crate comes with a sliding tray that can be removed for an easy wipe down. Additional features include a specially designed sliding door that opens smoothly for easy pet access and tension locking-system to keeps your dog secure in his/her crate. A wire top is also included for extra safety. The crate has enough space for a bed, training tray and/or toys, and comes in two sizes: small for pets up to 17.6 lb. and large for pets up to 44 lb. 
Sureflap’s® Surefeed Microchip Pet Feeder is designed to control access to a cat’s feeding bowl and keep pet food fresh. The feeder’s lid seals over the food bowl and only opens when it recognizes and identifies the cat who is trying to access the food. Easily programmed for individual cats, the feeder is customizable via different colored mats and bowls, both of which are removable for cleaning. The feeder is battery powered and will operate for up to six months on four C-cell batteries. 
PetSafe’s new Sliding Glass Pet Door automatically adjusts to fit within your existing sliding glass door for a simple and quick installation with no cutting required. The door is modular and collapsible, making it convenient to carry and transport, and enabling pet owners to take the door with them if they move. Other features include a heavy-duty aluminum frame with tempered glass; weatherstripping; a glass sweep and closing panel for weather resistance; left- or right-sided fitment; and two latches for secure locking. 
Weruva’s Cats in the Kitchen line of canned cat food was inspired by cat owners’ tendency to feed their cats in the kitchen. The carnivore-pleasing, grain-free formulas features all-natural, high-quality ingredients, such as boneless, skinless white chicken breast meat, tuna, mackerel and salmon loins, lean cuts of beef, lamb and turkey, as well as fish oil and the occasional pumpkin to promote healthy digestion. The 10 varieties (all cleverly named) come in 3-oz. cans. For the curious, the name WeRuVa is derived from the founders’ cats: Webster, Rudi and Vanessa. 
The Original PoopBags’ Orange Scented PoopBags epi Rolls are eco- and wallet- friendly. The bags are made with 30 percent post-consumer material that is blended with Totally Degradable Plastic Additives (TDPA®). The mildly orange-scented bags measure 9 x 13 in. and fit dispensers that attach to leash handles. They come 15 pages to a paper-cored roll and are offered in eight-roll packs. 
Stewart® by MiracleCorp presents its Raw Naturals™ Fresh to Home™ Freeze Dried Puppy Formula, a nutrient-rich raw diet for young dogs. Made in the USA with human-grade, wholesome ingredients, the formula is enriched with DHA for brain development, calcium for strong bone development and antioxidants to help build a strong immune system. A wholesome option for all breeds, the Freeze Dried Puppy Formula boasts chicken as the No. 1 ingredient and is available in a 12-oz bag or 3.75-oz trial size. 
New from PetSafe, the Cheese toy offers cats an exciting game of peek-a-boo with two mice that pop out of each side of the Swiss cheese block. For surprise play sessions, you can use the Play While You Are Away mode to keep your cats engaged throughout the day. And during single play sessions, the timer automatically turns the toy off after 10 to 15 minutes. Requires 3 AA batteries. 
JW® Slide ‘N Snacks™ Toys are made of durable rubber and are designed to easily slide treats on and off. This helps to prevent a dog from destroying the toy as the focus is shifted to the treat. The four shapes—Ball, Bone, Jack and Maze—come in one side and in red, blue and green colors. Of course, the toys aren’t complete without JW Slide ‘N Snacks Treats. Made in the USA, the 100 percent all-natural, low-calorie treats contain rice, flour and other natural ingredients and flavoring. They are come in chicken or bacon flavors in a 4.23-oz. bag. Both are available from 
Pioneer Pet presents a fountain that is designed to encourage cats to drink more water and complement a kitchen’s décor. The Raindrop Ceramic Drinking Fountain is made from durable ceramic material; is easy to dissemble for cleaning and maintenance; and comes with a replaceable charcoal filter. Dishwasher-safe, the Raindrop is available in either black or white and can hold up to 60-oz. of circulating water. 
BioSilk® For Dogs line of salon-quality grooming products includes shampoos, conditioners, sprays, leave-in treatment and cleansing wipes. Featuring some of the same classic ingredients and innovative technology as the original BioSilk Silk Therapy line for humans, the grooming products are formulated with silk and enriching vitamins that work together to help restore the moisture balance to the coat for a silky smooth finish. All formulas are pH-balanced and safe for use with topical flea and tick treatments. 
