When purchasing toys or accessories for your pet, the material used is more important than you might think. Whether it’s a chew toy, a bowl, or a collar, choosing the right material makes all the difference in terms of durability and safety for your pet. In this guide, we’ll review the most common materials used in pet products and help you understand which ones are best suited for different uses and species.

1. Rubber and Thermoplastic Rubber (TPR)

Rubber and TPR are commonly found in chew toys, balls, and treat dispensers. They are flexible, slightly bouncy, and often safe for your pet’s teeth. TPR is a newer material that combines rubber with plastic to give better shape memory and resistance.

Why it’s used:

• Tough enough for medium to heavy chewers
• Water-resistant and washable
• Gentle on gums

Things to consider:
Not all rubber is created equal. Low-quality or overly soft rubber can break apart and become a choking hazard. Always choose pet-safe, BPA-free rubber products.

2. Nylon and Fabric Materials

Nylon is used in everything from collars and harnesses to plush toys and leashes. It’s strong, lightweight, and inexpensive, making it a go-to for many everyday items. Some toys also combine nylon with cotton or polyester blends for added softness.

Why it’s used:

• Easy to clean
• Durable for light to moderate chewers
• Flexible for making adjustable gear like harnesses

Things to consider:
Fabric can fray or tear over time, especially if your pet chews or pulls a lot. Always check seams and avoid toys with stuffing or squeakers for unsupervised play.

3. Silicone

Silicone has become popular in items like lick mats, collapsible bowls, and slow feeders. It’s soft yet strong, food-grade safe, and very easy to clean.

Why it’s used:

• Flexible and foldable
• Heat-resistant and dishwasher-safe
• Doesn’t absorb odors or bacteria easily

Things to consider:
Chewing pets may tear thin silicone, so it’s best for food-related products rather than active toys.

4. EVA Foam and Lightweight Materials

EVA foam is used in soft toys, floating fetch toys, and pet mats. It’s light, shock-absorbing, and gentle for puppies or small dogs.

Why it’s used:

• Soft and quiet when dropped or thrown
• Safe for teething pets
• Often used in water toys because it floats

Things to consider:
Not meant for chewing. Foam-based items can be torn apart quickly by larger or more aggressive dogs.

5. Natural Fibers: Cotton, Hemp, and Wool

These eco-friendly materials are often found in rope toys, tug toys, and organic collars. Natural fibers are breathable and generally safe if chewed in small amounts.

Why it’s used:

• Biodegradable and chemical-free
• Gentle on teeth and gums
• Suitable for light indoor play

Things to consider:
Moisture can lead to bacterial growth if not dried properly. Also, durability is lower compared to nylon or rubber.

6. Hard Plastics (ABS, PP, PC)

Hard plastic is used for food dispensers, puzzle toys, crates, and clickers. These plastics are shaped using molds, which makes them useful for interactive items or structured accessories.

Why it’s used:

• Holds shape well
• Easy to wipe clean
• Can include moving parts like sliding lids or buttons

Things to consider:
Make sure it’s BPA-free and designed for pets. Some plastics become brittle over time and can crack. Not suitable for chewing unless specifically labeled for it.

7. Faux Leather and Real Leather

You’ll find leather mostly in collars, leashes, and training gear. Faux leather offers a vegan alternative that’s often lighter and more water-resistant.

Why it’s used:

• Durable and long-lasting
• Comfortable when broken in
• Classic look and feel

Things to consider:
Leather should never be used for chew toys. It can pose a choking risk if broken into pieces. Also, it needs occasional cleaning and conditioning to prevent drying.

Choosing What’s Right for Your Pet

When picking a material, think about your dog or cat’s behavior. Do they chew everything? Are they sensitive to certain textures? Will they be using it indoors or outside? Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

Pet Behavior / Product Type	Good Material Choices
Heavy Chewer	Rubber, TPR, tightly-woven nylon
Light Chewer or Licker	Silicone, EVA foam, cotton rope
Outdoor / Travel Use	Waterproof nylon, silicone, hard plastic
Eco-Friendly Preferences	Cotton, hemp, wool
Food-Related Accessories	Food-grade silicone, BPA-free plastics

So

Materials aren’t just about aesthetics: they also influence longevity, safety, and the experience your pet will have with them. Whether you’re buying a fetch toy, a feeding mat, or a new collar, understanding the properties of each material can help you make better choices for your pet’s daily life.

Start by understanding your pet’s habits and needs, then choose products made from suitable materials. It’s a simple way to avoid waste, prevent accidents, and allow your pet to play and have fun.