You spent three weeks knitting your dog (or cat) a perfect little sweater, only to have him freeze up like a statue the minute you put it on. Or maybe that’s just cats. Maybe that’s what they mean when they say “If looks could kill.” You’ve probably experienced something like that if you’ve ever tried to knit clothes for your pet. But cardigans aren’t the only game in town. Knitting for animals can be far wackier and a lot more fun than that. So let’s step outside the box and see the crazy things we can do!
For Basset Hounds, Spaniels and Other Drooly Dogs
Who hasn’t wondered why basset hounds are so good-looking but also ridiculously messy eaters? Their floppy ears seem to dip into dinner plates every night. No matter how you train, that tongue always gets in the way – unless you make them a snood. Think of a snood as a ribbed cowl that pulls those ears back and out of the fray. It’s not too hard to make but does take some time. For a Knitting Kit, visit www.woolcouturecompany.com/collections/knitting-kits
For Cats
Next up, why buy plastic cat toys from the supermarket when you could knit something with texture and variety instead? Think cotton or hemp yarn, which will give your cat’s paws something to dig in, with plenty of holes and nubs to catch the claw. You might try making a bunch of “catnip kicker” sticks with nice chunky cotton yarn in a garter stitch pattern, which has lots of rows to provide grip and traction. Then stuff them with fluffy fibrefill (not wool) and your most pungent catnip.
For Backyard Chickens
No surprise, some chicken owners knit for their girls too! For chickens, we’re not talking high fashion or anything. We just want to keep them cosy during that molt cycle or for those cold winter mornings. Enter the humble “chicken jumper”, basically a little vest with holes for the wings. How cute is that?
Paws & Purls Safety First
Just a note about knitting for pets: Please use yarns that breathe and can be washed easily – cotton, organic or otherwise treated wool and the like. Do yourself a favour and steer clear of anything with a long fringe, sequins or even buttons or toggles, as these can be gummed, nibbled and swallowed.
Don’t think knitting for animals is a war waiting to happen. Just keep your projects simple and fun. Plus, who doesn’t love a good afghan? Seriously, it’s the gift that keeps on giving for any creature large or small.
