How to Choose Safe Blankets for Pets
Warmth isn't the only consideration when picking a blanket for your furry friend. Safety and practicality also play an important role in your decision. Keeping these tips in mind when shopping for pet blankets will help you make the best choice.
Stay Away from Loose Weaves, Knits, and Embellishments
You may enjoy a chunky knit or crocheted blanket, but loosely woven blankets can pose safety issues for pets. It's easier to tear a nail or injure a leg if a paw gets caught in the blanket's weave.
Loosely woven blankets also pose other hazards. A determined pet can pull a thread, fiber, or piece of yarn from the blanket. If your pet swallows the thread or fiber, choking or potentially life-threatening intestinal blockages can occur. The intestines may bunch together when pets swallow strings and long fibers, according to the American Kennel Club.
Take a look at the edges of the blanket. Is the stitching tight? Does it look like the stitching would unravel easily? Does the blanket include tassels, buttons, ribbons, fringe, or other elements that could be swallowed? If so, the blanket might not be the right choice for your dog or cat.
Choose Non-Toxic Blankets
Since pets tend to chew on their blankets, picking a non-toxic blanket is a must. Blankets treated with flame retardants or other chemicals aren't a good choice. Unfortunately, it isn't always easy to tell if a blanket has been coated with a toxic substance simply by reading the label. If the blanket has a chemical smell or any other strange odor, keep shopping.
If you purchase a blanket from a pet supply store or website, make sure the description mentions that the blanket is safe and non-toxic.
Consider Size, Type, and Condition
Select a pet blanket based on your dog or cat's size. The ideal blanket is long enough to allow your pet to stretch out on it, but not so big that it tangles easily or trails on the floor. Avoid heavy, oversized blankets, as your pet could become stuck underneath and struggle to breathe.
Wondering if your pet would enjoy a weighted blanket? PetMD recommends avoiding these blankets, as they can trap or injure pets. It also recommends using heated blankets only under close supervision. A serious injury or even death could occur if your pet chews on the cord or becomes overheated.
Don't give your pet a second-hand blanket without first examining it thoroughly. Make sure the blanket is free of holes, loose threads or weak spots that could rip easily. Although it may be tempting to share an old blanket with your pet, a blanket used on your bed will be much too big for your pet. Replace any blanket, new or used, when it shows signs of wear.
Think About Warmth and Comfort
Your pet probably doesn't like a scratchy blanket any more than you do. Look for warm blankets that feel soft and comfortable. Fleece and microfiber blankets are good choices. These fabrics are also difficult to tear or shred.
Make Sure It's Washable
Pet blankets must be washed often to keep them looking and smelling fresh. Look for blankets that are machine-washable and dryable. Laundry detergents with strong fragrances can cause skin irritations or trigger allergies in pets. Use unscented, dye-free laundry products to prevent these health issues. Detergents specially formulated for pets are available at pet supply stores and online stores.
Whether you have a question about your pet's health or need to make an appointment for your furry friend, we're here to help you protect your pet's health. Contact our office to schedule a visit.
Sources:
American Kennel Club: Bowel Obstructions in Dogs: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention, 2/23/2026
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/bowel-obstruction-in-dogs/
PetMD: Blanket Safety for Pets, 10/26/2023
https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/blanket-safety-for-pets
American Kennel Club: Do Dogs Benefit From Blankets? Choosing the Right Dog Blanket, 1/28/2026
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/home-living/dog-blankets/
The Chicago Tribune: The Best Blanket for Dogs, 1/10/2020
https://www.chicagotribune.com/2020/01/10/the-best-blanket-for-dogs/
Fetch Pet Insurance: Do Dogs Like and Need Blankets, 2/28/2022