Looking for holiday pet gift ideas under $25? Discover 10 paw-some presents for dogs and cats that will bring joy without breaking the bank.
Holiday Pet Gift Ideas Under $25: 10 Best Gifts for Dogs & Cats
The holidays aren’t just for humans – our furry friends deserve some festive fun too! In fact, most pet parents give gifts to their animals during the holidays, with one survey showing about 70% of people typically buy their pets gifts (some even spend over $100!). Another poll found 95% of pet owners have bought a Christmas gift for their pet – talk about pampered pets! Thankfully, you don’t need to spend a lot to make your dog or cat happy.
This article will share 10 holiday pet gift ideas under $25 that are sure to get tails wagging and cats purring, all while keeping your budget intact. We’ll cover affordable toys, treats, and goodies for both dogs and cats, and even include a side-by-side comparison to help you pick the best option. Grab a cup of cocoa (and maybe a dog biscuit or catnip toy for your companion), and let’s explore some purr-fectly affordable pet gifts!
A happy pup eagerly awaits holiday surprises. Even a simple gift can bring big joy to our pets.
10 Best Holiday Pet Gift Ideas Under $25 (Budget-Friendly & Fun)
Holiday shopping for pets should be fun, not stressful. Below are ten of the best pet gift ideas under $25 – from toys that get them moving to treats that keep them smiling. Each idea is a physical product you can find easily (many on Amazon or at local pet stores) and works for either dogs, cats, or both. We’ve noted which pets will love each gift and included some tips on making the most of them. Let’s count down some great gift ideas for your furry family members!
1. Personalized Pet ID Tag (Safety & Style)
Why It’s Great: An ID tag is a small gift with big importance. It keeps your pet safe by ensuring they can be identified if they ever wander off. You can find personalized pet ID tags with cute designs for under $10 on sites like Amazon or Etsy. Engrave your pet’s name and your contact info – it’s both a thoughtful and practical present.
Who Will Love It: Dogs and cats alike should always have identification. Choose a durable tag that suits your pet’s personality (there are bone-shaped tags for dogs, fish-shaped tags for cats, etc.). Many come in fun colors or with shiny enamel that adds a bit of style to your pet’s collar.
Example: A stainless steel bone-shaped ID tag (about $7) or a glittery cat-shaped tag can be customized with your pet’s info.
- Glittering Elegance: Our pet tag offers unparalleled luxury with 15 captivating colors in glitter and non-glitter option…
- Crystal Clear Readability: Laser engraved on a dazzling, mirror-finish surface, our tag ensures impeccable legibility, e…
- Personalize in Style: Unleash your creativity. Customize your tag with up to 4 lines of personalized text (18 characters…
- Rich and vibrant color with gorgeous sparkling glitter. Available in many adorable colors to match your dog’s collar or …
- Excellent quality, stylish, extremely cute and beautiful. Tag is light weight, strong, durable and thick material. Hard …
- Engraving by io tags. Name and contact info are laser etched in large print on the back panel. Text is easy to read.
- DEEP and Durable Stainless Steel Pet ID Tags
- High Quality Deep-Cut Engraving (For your pet’s health and safety, we don’t use any toxic laser chemicals, ink, chrome p…
- 0.050″ Long-Lasting Stainless Steel Tags
- Made of stainless steel with high polished finish, it is resistant to rust and is ideal for long-lasting tags, It won’t …
- These pet tags can be engraved both side with back engraving options, the front will be your pet name and the back engra…
- It Includes 2 different sizes of stainless steel split rings so you can easily attach the tag on your pet’s collar.
Tip: When gifting, attach the new tag to a comfy collar in holiday colors for an extra festive touch!
Tip: Ensure the tag text is clear and include at least one phone number. It’s an easy way to keep your pet safe while also giving them a little bling.
2. Interactive Treat Dispenser Toy (Mental Stimulation)
Why It’s Great: Pets love toys that reward them with treats! An interactive treat-dispensing toy (like a puzzle feeder ball or wobble toy) engages your pet’s mind and keeps them occupied. They have to roll or chew the toy to get the treats out, turning snack time into playtime. This mental challenge can prevent boredom – perfect for curious cats or high-energy dogs. Surveys show that food or treats are the top gift for pets (given by 68% of owners)industryintel.com, and this toy combines treats and play for double the fun.
- 【PRODUCT SIZE】10 inch*10 inch*1.3 inch.
- 【3 WAYS TO PLAY, UPGRADE SLOW FEEDER】Our dog mental stimulation toys have a unique squeak button in the middle, which ma…
- 【FUNNY STIMULATING TOYS】All kinds of dogs and cats love the puzzle game of Spin & Slide and the Seek & Hide with their s…
- 【Upgrade Dog Puzzle】Our dog puzzle toy is moderate level with more challenging ,difficult than level 2, not only easy sl…
- 【Dog Puzzle Toys for Smart Dogs】 The dog brain game toy is designed bigger size than other dog puzzle toys, multiple ste…
- 【 Mental Excecise & Boredom Buster】 Kinds of dogs and cats love the puzzle game of Spin & Slide and the Seek & Hide with…
- RUBBER MATERIAL: HIPPIH treat dispensing dog ball is made of extra-tough rubber with good elasticity, good for your swee…
- STRONG TOOTH: HIPPIH blue dog ball can effectively help strong their teeth and won’t hurt pets gums. The green one can p…
- IMPROVE INTELLIGENCE & IQ TRAINING: HIPPIH dog toy ball can easily attract your pet’s attention, help pets intelligence …
- Smart Toy for Every Breed: This interactive dog puzzle is a stimulating essential for your pet’s development. Perfect fo…
- Remote Play for Fun & Training: Featuring a remote range up to 80 feet, this automatic feeder also serves as a training …
- Customizable for Engagement: Record your voice to call them to play or eat, creating a personal touch. You can switch be…
- 2 Levels in 1 Toy: start your pups off with a level 1 puzzle, add some treats in the base compartments and watch your do…
- Slow Feeder: The large capacity top transparent granary saves you the hassle to refill dog food frequently. The product …
- Not Easy to Tip Over: 4 non-slip rubber mats and weighted base hold the dog puzzle toy firmly in place when dogs eat and…
Who Will Love It: There are designs for both dogs and cats. For dogs, you might try a durable rubber treat ball that slowly releases kibble. For cats, consider a treat puzzle or a ball that dispenses cat treats as it rolls. Both species will enjoy the game and the yummy reward!
Example: The “KONG Wobbler” or similar treat ball (around $15-$20) is highly rated for dogs – they nose it around to get kibble to fall out. Cats might enjoy a treat maze or a rolling treat dispenser designed for felines. Tip: Use a portion of your pet’s regular kibble or healthy treats to avoid overfeeding while they play.
Tip: Start with small treats that come out easily so your pet learns how the toy works. Supervise at first and cheer them on – your encouragement makes it even more fun!amazon.com
3. Cozy Pet Blanket or Bed (Comfort & Warmth)
Why It’s Great: Every pet appreciates a soft, cozy spot to curl up, especially during the chilly holiday season. A plush pet blanket or a small pet bed can cost under $25 and makes an excellent gift. It gives your dog or cat a new favorite nap spot and can protect your furniture by luring them to their own blanket. Many pet blankets are machine-washable (a bonus for you!).
Who Will Love It: Both dogs and cats love a comfy place to snooze. For a dog, you might get a plush blanket to put in their crate or a cushioned bed for the living room. For a cat, consider a fluffy fleece blanket or a cat bed cave style where they can hide. Choose a size that fits your pet – a larger dog might just get a blanket on sale (some nice dog blankets are ~$20), while a small dog or cat could get a whole donut-shaped bed in that price range.
- SELF HEATED CAT BED TECHNOLOGY: The unique plush self-warming material captures your pet’s body heat and radiates the wa…
- NO ELECTRICITY NEEDED: Heated cat bed safely and naturally keeps your pet warm using their own body temperature to creat…
- VERSATILE: Soft, plush, reversible sides to match any décor; measures 21″ x 17″ that easily fits on furniture, on your p…
- Cuddler bed and blanket in one – attached pet blanket creates a den-like retreat for cats and small dogs who like to bur…
- Round donut shape calms and soothes; raised bolsters support your pet’s head/neck and create a sense of security for dee…
- Ultra soft faux fur interior creates a luxurious self-warming haven; microfiber exterior is as durable as it is chic
- 100% Waterproof Protection – This waterproof blanket is designed to fully protect your bed, mattress, or couch from spil…
- Oeko-Tex Certified & Premium Fabric – Made with high-quality materials that are certified safe for you and your family. …
- Easy to Clean & Machine Washable – No stress when it’s time to clean. This Waterproof Blanket for Adults and Dogs is ful…
Example: A 30-inch faux sherpa pet blanket (around $15) can be great for covering a couch spot. Alternatively, a cat cave bed or small dog cuddler bed can often be found for $20-$25. Look for post-holiday sales too. Tip: Pick a color or pattern that matches your home decor – it’ll look nice and be a cozy holiday addition to your living space.
Tip: Rub the new blanket or bed on your pet’s current bedding or your shirt before gifting it. Familiar scents will encourage them to use it and feel at home on their new cozy gift.
4. Durable Chew Toy (For Dogs Who Love to Chew)
Why It’s Great: For dogs that are chewers, a tough chew toy is a must-have. You can find plenty of durable dog toys under $25 that will keep pups busy and satisfy their natural urge to chew. Look for toys made of rubber or nylon that can withstand some gnawing. Not only do chew toys provide entertainment, they can also help keep your dog’s teeth clean and jaws strong.
Who Will Love It: This one’s mainly for the doges. Aggressive chewers (like many puppies or breeds such as Labs and Pitbulls) will benefit from a high-quality chew toy. Make sure to choose an appropriate size – small toys for little dogs, larger for big dogs – to avoid choking hazards. (Cats typically aren’t big chewers, so they might sit this one out, although some cats do enjoy batting around dog chew toys on occasion!)
Example: The KONG Classic is a famous choice – a medium KONG (red rubber toy you can stuff with peanut butter) is about $13reviewed.com and known for its durability and fun bounce. Nylabone chew toys (nylon bones) are also popular and come in flavors like chicken or bacon, usually well under $25. Tip: If you stuff a KONG toy with a bit of dog-safe peanut butter or treats and freeze it, it can keep your dog occupied even longer – a great trick for excited pups on holiday mornings!
Tip: Always supervise your dog with new chew toys. Even “indestructible” toys can wear down over time. Check the toy regularly and replace it if it’s starting to break apart – safety first!
5. Catnip Toys (For Playful Cats)
Why It’s Great: If you have a cat, you probably know the magic of catnip. Gifting your kitty a couple of catnip-filled toys is an inexpensive way to bring them tons of joy. Catnip toys often come in cute holiday shapes (like candy canes or little stockings), but they’re fun year-round. When a cat plays with a catnip toy, you’ll see them kick, chase, and roll around happily – it’s highly entertaining for both of you! Plus, catnip is a natural, safe herb that many (though not all) cats love.
Who Will Love It: Cats are the target here. Kittens and adult cats that are sensitive to catnip (about 70-80% of cats have a reaction to it) will get the zoomies and enjoy a good play session. Even older cats often become kitten-like when catnip is involved, encouraging exercise. Dogs won’t care about catnip, but you might keep Fido away while the cat plays, so the small toy doesn’t become the dog’s chew.
Example: A pack of Yeowww! Catnip toys (famous for strong catnip) might include a banana or fish shape for around $5-$10 each – well under $25. You could bundle a few different shapes. Other ideas are catnip mice or kicker sticks. Tip: Store unused catnip toys in a sealed bag with extra dried catnip to keep them potent, and refresh the toys with new catnip over time to maintain the excitement.
Tip: Monitor your cat’s energy – after a big catnip playtime, cats often tire out and might nap. That’s a great time to snuggle them in their new blanket (gift idea #3!) for a post-play nap.
6. Tasty Treat Assortment (Edible Delights)
Why It’s Great: Treats are a classic gift that never fails to get pets excited. You can put together an assortment of tasty pet treats under $25 easily. For dogs, think of a variety bag of biscuits or soft training treats. For cats, maybe a collection of different flavored cat treats or freeze-dried meat snacks. It’s like making a mini “treat basket” for your pet. Treats are also perfect for training and rewarding good behavior throughout the holidays. Given that 68% of pet owners give food or treats as giftsindustryintel.com, you’ll be in good company – it’s truly a popular choice.
Who Will Love It: Both dogs and cats – just be sure to get species-specific treats (dog treats for dogs, cat treats for cats). Also consider any dietary needs: for example, grain-free or single-ingredient treats if your pet has a sensitive tummy. If you’re gifting someone else’s pet, it’s a kind gesture to ask the owner about any allergies or preferences (like some dogs can’t have beef, or some cats might only like crunchy treats).
Example: For dogs, you could buy a few packs of treats: maybe dental chews (to keep those teeth clean), some soft training treats (chicken or peanut butter flavor), and a holiday-themed cookie treat – all totaling under $25. For cats, you might pick up a bag of crunchy treats, some squeeze-up lickable treats, and some dried bonito fish flakes. Tip: Present the treats in a little stocking with your pet’s name on it for a festive touch. On Christmas morning, they might even learn to pull their own treats out of the stocking with a little help!
Tip: Use moderation – with all the excitement, it’s easy to indulge your pet with too many goodies. A few treats a day (depending on size and calorie count) will keep them healthy and happy. You can even use new treats as training rewards to show off your pet’s tricks to family guests!industryintel.com
7. Grooming Glove or Brush (Spa Day for Pets)
Why It’s Great: Many pets enjoy a good petting session, and a grooming glove makes it even better. This gift is essentially a glove with soft silicone or rubber nubs that lets you pet your dog or cat while gently removing loose fur. It’s like turning a grooming task into a massage session – a win-win! Regular brushing keeps your pet’s coat healthy and reduces shedding around the house. Under $25, you can get a quality grooming glove or a nice brush (like a slicker brush or de-shedding tool on sale). It’s a thoughtful gift to help your pet look and feel their best.
Who Will Love It: Both – Dogs often enjoy the glove because it feels like getting pets, and many cats adore being brushed (though a few divas might disagree!). If your cat is one that loves face and back rubs, they’ll likely purr away when you use a grooming glove. For dogs, especially short-haired breeds that shed, a glove can catch fur easily. Long-haired pets might need a more specialized brush, but there are affordable options for those too.
Example: The HandsOn grooming gloves or similar cost around $12-$20 and come in pairs (one for each hand). A popular de-shedding brush brand is FURminator – the smaller versions for cats or small dogs sometimes go on sale for under $25 and are incredibly effective at removing loose fur. Tip: Introduce the grooming tool slowly – let your pet sniff it, then use gentle strokes. Reward them with a treat after grooming so they associate it with good things.
Tip: Grooming your pet regularly not only keeps their coat shiny, but also provides bonding time. Make it a relaxing ritual – perhaps a gentle brushing session in the evening while watching holiday movies, so your pet gets used to the routine and enjoys it.
8. Laser Pointer or Teaser Wand (Interactive Play for Cats)
Why It’s Great: Cats are natural hunters, and nothing triggers their chase instinct like a laser pointer dot zipping across the floor! A simple laser pointer (usually just a few dollars) can provide endless entertainment as your cat pounces and races after that little red dot. If you prefer a physical toy, a feather teaser wand (a stick with feathers or ribbons on a string) is equally engaging for interactive play. Both of these options are cheap (well under $25) but offer priceless fun and exercise for your feline. They’re great for year-round indoor play, especially on cold winter days when your cat has extra energy.
- Interactive Fun between Cats and Humans: With the hanging rope design, you can simply hook the bird to a cat wand (not i…
- Self Play for Cats: Every time your feline touches this cat kicker toy, the automatic built-in motion sensor kicks into …
- A Sandpiper That Chirps: Make play fantastic with the fluffy sandpiper, which makes lifelike chirping sounds once playti…
- [Trending Interactive Entertainment]: Potaroma’s new indoor cat toys provide an engaging, stimulating play experience fo…
- [Advanced Electronic Irregular Motion]: Powered by a smart motorized system, this electric cat toys deliver irregular mo…
- [Multi Modes for Indoor Fun]: Features a range of captivating movement modes that stimulate cat’s natural instincts to c…
- 1. KEEP CATS VERY ENTERTAINED : Cats are crazy about chaser games! Combine string and feather into a great cat toys for …
- 2. CLASSIC PRACTICAL INTERACTIVE CAT TOY : This cat wand toy can really get your cats to do a lot exercise while enterta…
- 3. CAT TOYS INTERACTIVE FOR INDOOR CATS : Pack includes: 2PCS Cat Wand + 9PCS Feather Worms Replacements + 2PCS Extra St…
- Self-Play for All Day: when cats are left alone, they could be bored. The 5 pcs toys are designed for hanging over the d…
- Cat’s Favorite: catnip contained inside and bells provide diverse attractions for your kittens. Catnip can get lounging …
- Adjustable Height: you can freely adjust the toys to a proper height that your cat is comfortable with thanks to the kno…
Who Will Love It: Cats will have a blast. Kittens, in particular, will go wild for lasers and feathers, but even older cats often can’t resist. Some dogs might also chase a laser dot, but be careful – a few dogs could get frustrated since they can never “catch” it. Generally, this gift is designed with cats in mind, while dogs might prefer actual fetch toys.
Example: A basic red laser pointer for pets might cost $5 or $10. There are also affordable interactive electronic lasers that spin the light around automatically (some under $25) if you want to spoil your cat. Feather wands or cat dancer toys are usually under $10; you can even get a set of assorted teaser toys for under $20. Tip: When playing with a laser, occasionally toss a small treat or toy where the laser was, so your cat feels like they “caught” something – it prevents them from getting too frustrated by the elusive dot.
Tip: Safety note – never shine a laser pointer in anyone’s (pet or human) eyes, as it can harm vision. Also, store it out of reach when not in use. Cats have been known to drag a laser pointer around trying to make it work – smart kitties!
Curious kitty investigates the holiday decor. Engaging your cat with interactive play (like a laser pointer or feather toy) can keep them out of the gift boxes!
9. LED Collar Light or Reflective Gear (Night-Time Safety)
Why It’s Great: Winter days are short, and if you walk your dog in the evening, a LED collar light or reflective accessory is a fantastic gift for safety. These small gadgets clip onto your pet’s collar or there are collars and leashes that actually light up. For under $25, you can get a blinking LED tag or an entire LED collar that makes your pet visible in the dark. This protects both of you by alerting drivers and helping you keep an eye on your pup during nighttime potty breaks or walks. It’s a thoughtful present that shows you care about your pet’s well-being.
Who Will Love It: Primarily dog owners (and dogs, indirectly!). If your dog accompanies you on evening walks or camping trips, you’ll appreciate this. Cats who go outdoors (or adventure cats on a leash) can also benefit from a reflective collar or tiny LED charm so you can spot them in the yard at night. Even for indoor cats, a soft reflective collar could be useful if they ever sneak out. But this gift is especially useful for dogs that go out after dusk.
Example: A pack of clip-on LED collar lights (often 2 in a pack for ~$15) can hang on any collar or harness. They usually have different settings like steady glow or blinking. Alternatively, a USB-rechargeable LED dog collar runs about $20 and you can cut it to size. There are also reflective vests (small ones under $25) if you have a dog that will wear one. Tip: Check that any light-up device is weather-resistant if your dog will romp in the snow or rain. Many are water-resistant for outdoor use.
Tip: Make evening walks fun by incorporating the new gear – turn on your pup’s “glowing necklace,” then enjoy a safe stroll to see the neighborhood lights. You’ll be visible and festive, and your dog might love the extra attention they get from admirers of their blinking collar!
10. Snuffle Mat or Slow Feeder (For the Foodie Pet)
Why It’s Great: A snuffle mat is basically a feeding mat with lots of fabric flaps or nooks where you can hide treats or kibble, turning mealtime into a fun sniffing game. It’s an enrichment toy that encourages your pet’s natural foraging instincts. Similarly, a slow feeder bowl has maze-like ridges that make dogs or cats eat more slowly. Both are beneficial if your pet tends to gobble their food or if you just want to give them a stimulating activity. They’re terrific for mental enrichment and can help prevent gulping down food (which can cause tummy upset). Best of all, you can find these feeding games for under $25 quite easily.
Who Will Love It: Dogs with high energy or fast eaters will benefit greatly – it tires out their brain to sniff out every last kibble from a snuffle mat. Many dogs adore snuffle mats (you can practically see their tail wagging the whole time they “work” for their food). What about cats? Yes, cats can enjoy them too! There are snuffle mats and puzzle feeders made for cats that hide treats to hunt. Food-motivated cats will paw and search for kibble much like a dog. Just be sure the mat or feeder you choose is appropriate size: a big dog might need a larger mat; a cat would prefer a smaller one or a slow feeder bowl with shallow grooves.
Example: The AWOOF snuffle mat for dogs (a popular one) is often around $20. It’s basically a fleece mat with bunches of cloth “grass” to hide treats in. There are also slow-feed dog bowls (plastic or silicone) typically $10-$15 that come in fun spiral or flower designs to spread out the food. For cats, you might find an interactive feeder tower or an egg-shaped slow feeder for under $25 as well. Tip: Always supervise at first to make sure your pet doesn’t try to eat the mat or bowl. Most pets will understand it’s for finding food, but a very determined chewer might need a sturdier feeder toy instead of a cloth mat.
Tip: Make the snuffle mat into a special holiday game. Hide your pet’s favorite treats in the mat and let them “open” their present with their nose! It’s adorable to watch and gives them a satisfying challenge. Over time, use the mat to serve regular meals for added enrichment in their daily routine.
Side-by-Side Comparison of Top 10 Pet Gifts Under $25
To help you decide at a glance, here’s a quick comparison of the ten gift ideas above. We’ve noted whether each gift is suited for dogs, cats, or both, and highlighted the key benefit of each item. This way, you can easily match the gift to your pet’s personality and needs:
| Gift Idea | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Personalized Pet ID Tag | Dogs & Cats | Safety & identification in style |
| Interactive Treat Dispenser | Dogs & Cats | Mental stimulation with rewards |
| Cozy Blanket/Bed | Dogs & Cats | Comfort and warmth for lounging |
| Durable Chew Toy | Dogs (mostly) | Satisfies chewing urge; long-lasting |
| Catnip Toys | Cats (mostly) | Encourages play using catnip appeal |
| Tasty Treat Assortment | Dogs & Cats | Delicious rewards; great for training |
| Grooming Glove/Brush | Dogs & Cats | Reduces shedding; feels like a massage |
| Laser Pointer/Feather Wand | Cats (mostly) | Interactive exercise and play |
| LED Collar Light/Gear | Dogs (mostly) | Night-time visibility & safety |
| Snuffle Mat/Slow Feeder | Dogs & Cats | Enrichment during mealtime; slows eating |
(All of these gift ideas are under $25 and widely available. Remember to consider your pet’s size and preferences when choosing the perfect gift.)
As shown above, each gift has its own special purpose – whether it’s keeping your pet safe, entertained, comfortable, or healthy. You can’t go wrong with any of these budget-friendly ideas. Some pet parents even choose a couple different gifts since they’re so affordable (for example, a fun toy and a cozy bed).
Conclusion: Making the Holidays Special for Your Pet
The holidays are a time to show love to our family, and that definitely includes our pets. You don’t need an extravagant budget to make your dog leap with joy or your cat purr with contentment. Often, it’s the simple things – a new toy, a cozy blanket, or a yummy treat – that delight our pets the most. Plus, the time you spend playing or cuddling with them using these gifts is what truly makes the season bright. As one pet industry expert noted, people love including pets in holiday festivities because it creates wonderful bonding momentssofi.com.
By choosing any of these holiday pet gift ideas under $25, you’re giving your furry friend not just a present, but an experience – be it a game to play, a comfy spot to rest, or a tasty snack to enjoy. These gifts can be enjoyed year-round, so your pet’s tail will keep wagging (or kitty will keep pouncing) long after the holiday decorations are put away. And if you’re brainstorming presents for your human family members too, you can find plenty of creative ideas to brighten everyone’s holidaylamppostshop.com. The spirit of giving should touch all members of the family, four-legged ones included!
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Happy holidays to you and your pets! May your home be filled with love, laughter, and the sound of paws scrambling to open gifts. With these budget-friendly ideas, you can make this holiday memorable for your pet without breaking the bank. After all, seeing our beloved animals happy and safe is truly the best gift of all
