Pets buying guides
Different pets need different kit. Start with the problem you are trying to solve, whether that is an awkward body shape, an escape artist, a very muddy walk or a cat in a small flat, rather than a generic top ten.
Most pet kit is sold by size label, but labels rarely describe the dog or cat in front of you. A medium harness that fits a Labrador can slip straight off a whippet, and a "space-saving" scratching post can wobble the first time a cat stretches against it.
These guides start with one specific animal or situation, then compare named products on fit, security, cleaning and how they work in a real home. Where welfare charities such as Cats Protection and Battersea publish guidance, we use it as the baseline.
19 guides in this section.
Dog harnesses
Fit for unusual body shapes, escape artists and long days on the trail.
- What's the best dog harness for cocker spaniels? Start with the Ruffwear Front Range for everyday walks. If standard sizes never fit, try the modular PerfectFit. Check…
- What's the best dog harness for dachshunds? Start with the PerfectFit modular harness if standard sizes never sit comfortably; consider the Ruffwear Flagline for an…
- What's the best dog harness for escape-prone dogs? Start with the Ruffwear Web Master: its third strap sits behind the ribcage. Compare the lighter Flagline, and add a…
- What's the best dog harness for hiking? Start with the Ruffwear Flagline for rough ground: its handle helps over stiles. For long, easy trails, the low-profile…
- What's the best dog harness for whippets? Start with the Ruffwear Flagline: its belly strap stops a whippet backing out. The Ruffwear Web Master adds more…
Dog coats and drying
Coats cut for deep chests and long backs, plus kit for muddy returns.
- What's the best dog coat for dachshunds? For wet walks, start with the Ruffwear Sun Shower; for cold days, the Hurtta Expedition Parka. Check the belly strap and…
- What's the best dog coat for greyhounds? Start with the Hurtta Expedition Parka for cold walks, or the Ruffwear Vert for an insulated coat with leg loops. Fit…
- What's the best dog coat for whippets? For rain, a sighthound-cut raincoat or the Ruffwear Sun Shower with leg loops; for cold, the insulated Ruffwear Vert…
- What's the best dog drying coat after muddy walks? For the car or doorstep, start with the Ruffwear Dirtbag. For drying at home, a microfibre robe like the Soggy Doggy…
Leads and walking kit
Leads and bags for small dogs, hands-free walking and wet countryside.
- What's the best dog lead for small dogs? Start with the Ruffwear Hi & Light: light webbing and a small, lockable clip suit small dogs. Avoid heavy clips that…
- What's the best dog walking bag for muddy country walks? Start with the Ruffwear Home Trail Hip Pack for everyday walks. For hands-free walking, the Kurgo RSG Utility Belt; for…
- What's the best hands-free dog lead for walking? Start with the Ruffwear Roamer: it works hand-held or round the waist. For regular runs, the Ruffwear Trail Runner Belt…
Cats
Carriers, litter trays, scratching posts and fountains for flats and multi-cat homes.
- What's the best cat carrier for small flats? For most small flats, start with the Ferplast Atlas Open in the size that genuinely fits your cat.
- What's the best cat carrier for train journeys? Choose a rigid, securely closed plastic carrier with a stable base. Start by comparing the Ferplast Atlas Open in the…
- What's the best cat litter tray for small flats? For most cats, choose a generously sized open tray and make room for it deliberately. The Ferplast NIP 30 is a good size…
- What's the best cat scratching post for multiple cats? Buy two or more well-positioned, stable scratchers before spending the whole budget on one giant tree.
- What's the best cat scratching post for small flats? For most small flats, buy a tall, narrow, heavy-based sisal post, such as the Feandrea 85 cm pole, and put it where your…
- What's the best cat water fountain for multiple cats? For several cats that enjoy moving water, start with the PetSafe Drinkwell 360 Stainless Steel, which lets cats drink…
- What's the best cat water fountain for quiet bedrooms? The Catit PIXI is a sensible quiet-bedroom starting point, provided you maintain the pump and water level.