Kongs are not safe. I would never recommend them.
Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Dog Brick Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy, Intermediate https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0711Y9XTF/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_D4KCY8D4RJDVM4M4DPZF
Pet Zone IQ Treat Ball – Adjustable Dog Treat Dog Ball & Treat Dispensing Dog Toys (Dog Puzzle Toys, Dog Enrichment Toys, and Interactive Dog Toys in One) Great Alternative to Snuffle Mat for Dogs - 3" https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OZOQN3U/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_B3SM8QYJYH6Z2QFDKMPP
Dog Puzzle Toys,Dogs Food Puzzle Feeder Toys for IQ Training & Mental Enrichment,Dog Treat Puzzle(Blue) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RY2YRFG/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_210V52ECBYE5GY0Q4C2W?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Dog Twister Interactive Treat Puzzle Dog Toy, Advanced https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0719Q89X8/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_HD3R64Q87VS2B02E092M
Hey there! Our guy just turned 6 months and has all the same obsessions, particularly with sticks and shoe / hoodie strings. Here’s what w ground worked best:
This ramen themed string toy has shoe string “noodles” with fabric pockets of “veggie / meat” that you can stuff treats or kibble into. Our bernedood loves this so much, he plays with it even when no kibble is left in it. I’d recommend hot gluing the bundle of strings to the bottom of the ramen casing so it doesn’t get separated
To replace outside sticks that can splinter, we give out boy Dogwood from Petstages in the small size
For general nose and paw work when feeding, we also use this puzzle toy that requires him to paw at the levers to access each portion of kibble. Great mental stimulation and he still plays with it without food involved when he’s bored!
Using Amazon links for examples. Use the store of your choice!
Dog puzzle toys (especially easier ones) can also work for cats. You can use pieces of kibble instead of treats.
There are many types of solo toys. Some require a little baby proofing. catnip mice can have swallowable tails/ears. So, cut those off to avoid a vet bill. Plastic toys may have sharp edges. You can use a nail file to soften them.
Foil balls are so cute pieces can break off and get swallowed 0/10.
Laserpointers are not a top choice. I don't like how crazy it makes them.
I crochet simple cat toys 10/10 uses leftover yarn. (Can give pattern if you know how to crochet)
Some more expensive options are mats that move or tower of spinning balls
Of course! I found links for both Amazon and Chewy for some, but I’m sure you can search elsewhere if you prefer shopping somewhere else!
Snuffle Mat (Amazon) // Snuffle Mat (Chewy)
Spinning Puzzle (Amazon) // Spinning Puzzle (Chewy) - his least favorite one I think lol