Much has been written over the years of the danger some toys present to young children and these toys are quickly taken off the market. Animals also have mishaps with some toys and care should be taken. Squeaky rubber toys come in an assortment of shapes and sizes and dogs in particular love to play with squeakers. Be careful that the squeaker cannot be dislodged in play, or by chewing, as it can lodge in the throat. When playing ball with the dog choose a ball which is too large for the dog to swallow - never throw a squash or golf ball.
Dogs love to retrieve, but sticks can splinter or impale the roof of the mouth.
Old socks and stockings are great for playing tug of war, but if left lying around and the dog swallows them they may result in the dog requiring surgery to retrieve them. Cats like to leap and attack curtain cords and care should be taken to make sure that they cannot become caught and hang themselves. Budgerigars enjoy toys in their cages and will climb ladders, ring bells and admire themselves in a mirror for hours on end. Make sure that the toys do not have sharp edges. Budgies also invent their own games and learn to open the door of the cage.