What do pet owners plan to give their furry friends for Christmas?

By Grant Bailey, 72Point via SWNS

Eight in 10 pet owners intend to give their furry friends more than just a bone for Christmas, gifting them advent calendars, sweaters and jackets, cooking them animal-friendly festive feasts - and taking them along to meals out.

A survey, of 2,000 cat and dog owners, found 23 percent have bought their pet more presents than their partner this year - totaling an average spend of £31.30 ($38.27).

While 15 percent will research a Christmas meal fit for a king in a bid to spoil their pet with their favorite animal-friendly Christmas meal, alongside their own turkey roast.

A hopeful 13 percent have even bought their pet a festive sweater to wear on the big day, though just 38 percent of these think they will wear it willingly.

And 35 percent think their cat or dog would have some reservations about donning a novelty Santa hat.

Neil Rogers, from M&S Pet Insurance, which commissioned the research, said: "The results of our study show we're willing to go the extra mile for our furry friends.

“Christmas is a time to treat the ones we love, and to show our family and friends how much they mean to us.

“It’s great to see that our pets, who bring us so much joy day-to-day, are included in this special time of the year.”

The research also found 75 percent see their cat or dog as a key member of the family.

While 79 percent get joy out of seeing their furry companion happy and living their best lives.

Other treats pets can expect this Christmas include a new bed, a nice collar and new toys.

Yet, despite wanting to spoil their four-legged companion with wrapped presents and even a pet-friendly tipple, 31 percent do not have pet insurance in the event that anything should happen to their beloved friend.

The top reason for not purchasing pet insurance is the perceived cost of the policy, while others feel they won’t need it.

And 15 percent believe it is too complicated to set their pets up with coverage.

Separate research from the Association of British Insurers revealed the average veterinary bill, for any animal in 2021, cost £848 ($1,036).

The M&S Pet Insurance study found that, in the event of such a bill, just 51 percent of pet owners would be in a comfortable position to pay it.

While 45 percent of pet owners have faced an unexpected pet emergency in the past.

It also emerged the average pet family will have three unexpected vet bills on average over the course of their pet’s lifetime, totting up to £344 ($420).

Neil Rogers added: “Taking out insurance - and selecting a policy that’s right for you and your pet - can provide peace of mind for pet owners.

"This is especially worth considering at this time of year, when there are often more potential pet hazards around the home, like baubles, tinsel, chocolates, candy canes and more.”

TIPS TO KEEP YOUR PET SAFE AT CHRISTMAS:

FESTIVE FOODS TO AVOID

Traditional Christmas treats like chocolate, mince pies, Christmas cake and nuts are harmful to dogs and cats so try to keep them hidden.

The same goes for presents under the tree containing food - even the best-behaved pet can be tempted to investigate.

FEELING THIRSTY?

Don’t let your pet drink the water from the base of the Christmas tree - Fertilizer in the soil means it could be harmful.

PRICKLY PAWS

Real Christmas trees are well known for shedding their needles as soon as you bring them home, check your pet’s paws regularly to make sure no pesky pines have become stuck in there.

FESTIVE FOLIAGE

Many of the plants we bring into our homes at this time of year can be problematic for our pets.

Any poinsettia, holly, mistletoe and ivy should be kept out of your pet’s reach to ensure they aren’t tempted to take a closer look.

LOOK BUT DON’T TOUCH

Our pets are curious creatures and love to investigate things, and not surprisingly, are often tempted to play with tinsel and baubles during the festive period.

However, if ingested, they can cause blockages and make your pet very unwell, so be sure to keep them away from playful paws.

Tips are from Kirsty Cavill, Head Nurse at VETFONE

TOP FESTIVE TREATS FOR PETS:

1. A new toy
2. Some new treats
3. Presents properly wrapped up so they can open them with the family
4. A night cuddled up watching a festive film
5. Eating Christmas dinner as a family
6. A new bed
7. A new collar
8. Cooking them a special, animal-friendly, Christmas dinner
9. An advent calendar
10. A Christmas sweater
11. A new winter jacket for cold walks
12. A Christmas card
13. Pet-friendly tipple
14. A trip away to a pet-friendly location
15. Bringing them to a Christmas meal out