Before starting any search for pet gifts, scout out what pets are at home. You want to start your gift hunt on the right paw. And stretch your gift hunt to accessories for the pet lover. You could pick up a gift that celebrates their favorite animals on the planet (like a game of Bird Bingo).

A pet-themed gift sounds like an easy gift for your friend or cousin. You know she has a pet — but you can’t remember whether it’s a guinea pig or gerbil (and it makes a difference in choosing a more thoughtful, specific gift). Take a peek on Facebook — as she’s probably shared a pet post or two.

Find out if your pet-loving friend already donates to any animal charities — like the ASPCA or the Humane Society. It’s safe to assume her spouse would know since they do taxes together (charitable writeoffs.) That way you can help her give back to a cause she loves — helping animals.  

Snoop around to find out whether there’s a pet bed at home, whether it’s old or brand new, or whether their bunny has free reign of the house and sleeps nestled in a bunny hut in the kitchen. If you gift a pet bed, you’ll also want to match its size to the pet.

Look into whether she likes to proudly shout out her pet love to the world. Is your niece driving around a car with 10 spirited bumper stickers? Does your mom redecorate her fridge with photos? Think on printable gifts to call attention to her favorite pets.

There’s a whole market of fancy treats for the gourmand pet. Before scooping up that organic, peanut butter doughnut-shaped dog treat, make sure you know whether the pet has any food allergies. Many pets can only eat certain brands and specific foods for their diet, so check in with your pet lover (or peek in their pantry cupboard, if you’re shooting for a surprise).

Head to your local pet store knowing which type of pet you’re shopping for (cat, dog, gerbil, parrot, bunny) and then scope out fun toys as pet gifts. Pets can always use more toys (like children), and you can’t go really wrong in the toy department.

Get a lead on great gift ideas:

Don’t Bark Up the Wrong Tree: 7 Tips for Dog Gifts

How to Find Gifts to Purrrfectly Please Your Cat Lover