Wondering how to play with a cat without cat toys? Sometimes you might not have your kitty's favorite plaything handy or you may simply want to mix things up and add some much needed variety to their day – and yours!

The good news is that there are so many fun games and activities you can play with your feline friend that don't require toys. While having a few of the best toys for indoor cats around for those times when you're too busy to play is a great idea, there are plenty of ways to play with your cat that don't cost money.

Cat play has so many benefits for your feline. Not only does it offer them that all important physical and mental stimulation, it's also brilliant for preventing destructive or unwanted behaviors. And when it comes to ways to bond with your cat, nothing beats a good play session!

To fill you up with inspiration on how you can play with your cat without toys, we turned to expert vet Dr MacMillan who was only too happy to share some great ideas with us. Plus, she reveals the ideal length for a play session and what to do if your kitty doesn't seem interested in toys. Let's dive in...

How to play with a cat without cat toys

When it comes to the best cat toys, we really are spoilt for choice these days with more and more great options lining the shelves. But sometimes, the sheer variety of toys available can feel overwhelming, not to mention that the cost of constantly buying new toys can quickly add up.

Thankfully, when it comes to how to play with a cat the right way, there's nothing in the cat owner handbook that says you have to use toys. There are plenty of other amazing ways that you can give your cat's brain and body a good workout each day.

Here are a few ideas to get you started...

1. Fetch
Can cats play fetch? You bet they can! While not all kitty's will enjoy this game, some breeds are particularly known for their love of fetch, including the Devon Rex, Cornish Rex, Manx, Siamese, and Japanese Bobtail just to name a few.

"Crumpled-up paper balls make great low-hassle toys," says Dr MacMillan. "Try throwing these for your cat and rewarding them if they bring it back."

2. Hide-and-seek
When it comes to our favorite fun games to play with cats, hide-and-seek is definitely at the top of the list.

"Try calling your cat or rattling the treat tin – then run and hide!" Dr MacMillan advises. "Hide somewhere your cat can easily access, such as behind the curtains, behind an open door, or under the bed. Give your cat a reward when he finds you."

3. Create a cardboard box playground
Looking for ways to use up all those delivery boxes that end up accumulating in your house until trash collection day? Dr MacMillan suggests saving them up and placing them around a room randomly.

"Cats love boxes!," she says. "Your cat can play hide-and-seek, climb on them, pretend to be a jack in the box or just curl up for a snooze. If they need a little encouragement, make sure the boxes are completely open and place a few treats inside."

4. Make a DIY puzzle feeder
Yes, you can absolutely buy a cat puzzle feeder, but making one is easier than you might think.

"This could include stacking rolls of toilet tubes on their sides in a pyramid formation. Placing treats randomly in different holes.," Dr MacMillan says.

"Your cat will have to use a paw to get them out! Or you could try cutting an egg carton up to make individual cups you can place over the top of a treat that needs knocking over."

5. Teach them a trick
When it comes to how to teach a cat a trick, many of us shy away from this because we feel like it's going to be overly complicated. But believe it or not, it's actually quite simple. And the best part is, you can do it without a single toy in sight.

"It’s possible to train your cat to do tricks during play sessions such as high five, sit and stay," explains Dr MacMillan. "Keep training sessions short, use a clear command word and use positive reinforcement such as treats and praise to reward them."

For inspiration, check out these great tricks to teach your cat.

6. Use a cat-friendly app on your phone
Want a game that will keep your kitty occupied and let you relax at the same time?

"You could try downloading a cat-friendly app where your cat must use their paws to tap at moving objects," Dr MacMillan suggests. "Don’t forget that cats view screens differently from us though, so don’t feel annoyed if your cat doesn’t want to engage."

7. Blow bubbles for your cat to chase
“Try blowing bubbles for your cat," Dr MacMillan suggests. "The random movements of the bubbles will encourage your cat to get moving and chasing. You can even buy flavored bubbles for pets which might stimulate them further."

This one is super fun if you have kids in the house – and equally as fun if you don't. Trust us, your inner child will love it!

How long to play with a cat

Regular play sessions are vital for your cat's mental and physical wellbeing, but how long and how frequent should these sessions be? Here's what Dr MacMillan has to say:

"Cats need 20–30 minutes of activity each day, depending on their age and health status. However, for most cats, this is broken up into several short play sessions rather than one big long one.

“Play is important for cats as it keeps them both physically and mentally fit. Play helps your cat to bond with you, as well as allowing them to express natural behaviors. In my experience, increasing playtime is one of the best things you can do to help cats suffering from boredom, boisterousness, or destructive tendencies."

While playing with your feline friend is important for strengthening your bond, there will always be times when you're too busy to engage. In those instances, we recommend having some of the best automated cat toys on hand that your cat can play with independently.

How do I get my cat interested in toys?

Some cats are more playful than others, but all cats can benefit from play – it can just take a bit of experimenting to find the sort of toys, games and pace that your cat responds best to.

"Try a variety of different toys with your cat," Dr MacMillan suggests. "While some might go mad for a fishing rod style, others prefer crinkle balls or a kickeroo. When purchasing your toys think about the ones that most resemble prey, with random movements or sounds to encourage interaction.

"Have a toy rotation system too, so that you keep things fresh and interesting for your cat. You can help encourage them to play by rewarding their efforts with a small treat or lots of verbal praise. Catnip can work wonders for some cats too. This natural stimulant can persuade some cats to chew or roll around on their toys."

Looking for more ways to entertain your feline? Learn how to play with a cat and how to play with a kitten. Or, read more advice on how to entertain a cat that doesn't like toys.

Edited by Megan Milstead.

Can dogs play with cat toys? It's a question you may have found yourself asking if you have both a canine companion and a feline friend in your family. And while it may make sense to kill two birds with one stone and let both of your pets play with the same toys, cat toys do pose some risks to dogs.

The best cat toys for indoor cats are, according to expert vet Dr Rebecca MacMillan, usually much smaller in size than dog toys and there's a chance that your pup could swallow one of these items and end up choking. Cat toys also aren't as robust and are designed to tap into a cat's natural hunting instincts.

Still, while purchasing cat toys for your dog isn't advisable, what about if you already have them in the house? Is it okay for your pup to play with them from time to time? And what happens if they accidentally eat one? We asked Dr MacMillan for her advice. Here's what she had to say...

Can dogs play with cat toys?

If you live in a multi-pet household with both dogs and cats, all the different items they need can quickly add up. So it's no surprise that you may have come up with a clever way to cut costs and have your fur friends share their toys. But is letting your dog play with your cat's toys a good idea? Dr MacMillan says most vets don't recommend it.

"While it might be good mental stimulation to play with new items now and then, cat toys could be problematic," she explains. "Generally, the bigger the dog, the more likely it is to accidentally swallow the toy or destroy it through chewing. Cat toys are often small in size leading to choking in dogs or have other bits on them like feathers or string, which they can easily chew off.

The good news is that there are some toys that are designed to be used by both cats and dogs and Dr MacMillan says it's best to purchase these or to try and encourage them to play with their own items.

What is the difference between a cat toy and a dog toy?

Walk into any pet store and you'll no doubt come face to face with rows and rows of different dog and cat toys – but surely they're pretty much the same, right? Well, according to Dr MacMillan, not exactly.

"The best cat toys are designed to stimulate natural feline hunting behaviors such as stalking, pouncing, and grabbing," she explains. "These movements often require fine motor control and precision. Cat toys are often small, and some have random prey-like actions.

"Dog toys on the other hand are designed for rough-and-tumble games like tug, fetch, and chewing. Dog toys tend to be larger, heavier, and more suited to your pet’s size. These toys are also more robust as they are designed to withstand the strength of a dog’s jaw and the intense way that they play."

So while they may often look similar, it's always advisable to buy your pup the best dog toys that have been designed to meet their specific needs rather than giving them your cat's toys to play with.

What happens if my dog eats a cat toy?

"If your dog eats a cat toy then there is a risk of it causing a blockage in their stomach or guts, depending on the size and shape of the toy. In some cases, a swallowed toy could cause choking," Dr MacMillan explains.

If you think your dog has eaten a cat toy, then you must call your vet for advice. Your vet might suggest an injection to induce vomiting, but some pets can require endoscopy (a camera to retrieve the item from your dog’s stomach) or surgery.

“Left untreated, a foreign body could make your dog seriously unwell, causing vomiting, diarrhea or constipation, abdominal pain, and damage to the digestive tract. It is always best to get your dog checked out rather than waiting for symptoms to develop."

Is it safe to give dogs catnip toys?

A substance that drives many cats crazy, catnip is found in many feline-friendly toys but is catnip safe for dogs or does it pose risks that you need to be aware of? Well, according to Dr MacMillan, both fresh and dried catnip are not toxic to dogs and shouldn’t have any adverse effects.

"Catnip doesn’t tend to have the same effects on dogs as it does on cats, but you may notice some mild sedation," she explains. "If your dog consumes a very large amount of catnip, then the plant material may lead to a few tummy troubles.

"Problems are actually much more likely to occur if your dog ingests the toy containing the catnip, however. If swallowed, a catnip toy could become lodged in your dog’s stomach or intestines, acting as a dangerous foreign body."

Read next: The dos and don'ts of dogs and cats living together.

Edited by Megan Milstead.

Are you wondering, 'How to entertain a cat that doesn’t like toys?' This is something I get asked surprisingly often in practice. It’s easy to assume that all cats love a good play session with a toy mouse or a tinkling ball, but the truth is, not every cat is motivated by traditional toys.

If your feline friend isn’t interested in the usual offerings from the pet shop, don’t worry. There are still plenty of ways to keep them engaged, happy, and mentally enriched.

I'm a small animal vet with more than 13 years of experience, and I’ve worked with countless cats, each with their own unique personality and preferences. Some cats are naturally playful, while others prefer a quieter, more observational lifestyle. The key is to find what sparks your cat’s curiosity and build enrichment around that.

Below, I explore why some cats don’t like toys, how to tell if your cat is under-stimulated, and – most importantly – share lots of simple, practical ideas for enriching your cat’s life without relying on toys. And if you’re still on the hunt for the right toy, don’t miss our guide to the best cat toys for indoor cats.

How to entertain a cat that doesn’t like toys

Not every cat enjoys batting around plastic balls or chasing feather wands. If toys aren’t your cat’s thing, try one (or several!) of these alternative enrichment ideas:

1. Create a window perch for bird watching
Cats are natural hunters, and even if they’re not the type to chase a toy around the house, they’ll often enjoy watching the world go by. Set up a comfy window perch or cat hammock by a secure window where they can watch birds, squirrels, or even just the neighbors coming and going. Bonus points for adding a bird feeder outside to make things even more interesting!

2. Offer cardboard boxes and paper bags
Sometimes the simplest things are the most fun. Cardboard boxes and paper grocery bags (with the handles removed for safety) can provide hours of entertainment. They’re perfect for hiding, pouncing, and exploring, plus, they appeal to your cat’s natural instincts without needing fancy toys.

3. Use scent-based enrichment
If your cat isn’t into movement-based play, try tapping into their sense of smell. Sprinkle a little dried catnip, valerian root, or silvervine on a soft blanket or scratcher. Some cats love rolling in it, sniffing, and rubbing their cheeks. Check out our guide to the best catnip toys, too.

4. Make mealtimes more interesting
Feeding routines can double as mental stimulation. Try scattering kibble around a room, hiding food in toilet roll tubes, or using one of the best puzzle feeders and lick mats. This encourages natural foraging behaviors and gives your cat something to “work” for.

5. Try clicker training
Clicker training isn’t just for dogs! Cats can learn simple tricks and behaviors using positive reinforcement. Start small, like teaching your cat to sit, touch a target, or jump onto a stool. It's an excellent way to bond, build confidence, and stimulate their brain. You might also want to read our guide on how to teach a cat a trick.

6. Rotate environments and rearrange furniture
Changing your cat’s environment, even slightly, can reignite their curiosity. Move a cat tree to a new location, swap out bedding, or create a new hidey-hole under a chair. Environmental novelty can be just as enriching as toys - if not more so. Just be careful to gauge your cat’s reaction, as moving things around too much may stress your cat out.

7. Encourage interaction with you
Some cats are more people-focused than toy-focused. Simply sitting on the floor, talking to your cat, gently stroking them, or letting them rub against you can be enough stimulation for certain individuals. Don’t underestimate the power of quality one-on-one time and focused attention.

Is it normal for my cat to not play with toys?

Yes, some cats just don’t like toys, and that’s completely normal. While play is an important behavior, not all cats express it in the same way. Some cats prefer watching rather than doing, especially as they get older or if they’ve never been encouraged to play as kittens.

Breed and personality also play a role. For instance, highly active breeds like Bengals and Abyssinians are usually toy-driven, whereas quieter cats like Persians might prefer to snooze and observe rather than chase. As long as your cat is otherwise healthy, content, and getting enrichment in other ways, there’s no need to worry.

Just be aware, if a cat suddenly stops playing or becomes withdrawn, it’s worth checking in with your vet, as this could be a sign of pain, illness, or stress.

How do I tell if my cat is under stimulated?

Cats who aren’t getting enough stimulation can develop behavioural or emotional issues. Here are a few signs your cat might be understimulated:

• Excessive sleeping or lethargy: It’s normal for cats to sleep a lot, but if your cat is only sleeping and never showing bursts of energy or curiosity, they could be bored.
• Destructive behavior: Scratching furniture, chewing wires, or knocking things over may be signs your cat is trying to create their own fun in the absence of stimulation.
• Overgrooming or other stress behaviors: Cats who feel unfulfilled may resort to overgrooming, pacing, or even aggression. These behaviors can be both a symptom of boredom and stress.
• Meowing excessively or demanding attention: A cat that constantly meows or seems clingy may be trying to tell you they need more engagement, just not in the form of a squeaky mouse toy!

If you suspect your cat is understimulated, try gradually introducing some of the enrichment techniques mentioned above, and monitor how they respond.

Not all cats are captivated by traditional toys – and that’s perfectly okay. Every feline has their own unique preferences and personality. The key is to think outside the (toy) box and explore alternative ways to keep them mentally and physically engaged, whether through interactive feeding, environmental enrichment, or bonding time with you.

With a little patience and creativity, even the most toy-averse cat can find joy in stimulation that suits their individual style. If you are ever worried, remember your vet is always there to help if you’re unsure about your cat’s behavior or wellbeing.

Read next: I tried ‘nosework’ with my cats and it’s transformed our bond and what to do if your cat won't play. Or get more expert tips on how to play with a cat without toys.

Edited by Megan Milstead.

When you’re watching your cat play with some catnip you sprinkled on the floor, it’s pretty common to wonder, "does catnip get cats high?”. After all, the way cats roll around and act silly looks just like it – but is that how catnip works?

When I was a veterinary student, I fostered cats for a local charity. It was a great way to gain experience with my feline patients and I learned loads about their quirks. I especially loved trying them with catnip – although, disappointingly, half of my charges didn’t react to it, even with the best catnip toys.

After graduating as a vet, I even worked in feline-only practice for a time – I truly appreciate cats and their quirks, both medical and behavioral. So, you can imagine I was all too excited to write this article about catnip!

Does catnip get cats high?

The million-dollar question – is catnip a drug for cats? Does it get them high? Well, let’s first define a ‘high’. For the purposes of this article, we’ll say it’s a feeling of extreme wellbeing and happiness – a ‘euphoric’ reaction.

In this case, I think we can safely say catnip gets cats high. After all, their reaction is definitely euphoric, with initial excitement and hyperactivity followed by a relaxed and happy state.

Some people associate a ‘high’ from drugs with hallucinations, but there’s no evidence that cats have this reaction. And, unlike drug highs in humans, a catnip high for cats doesn’t seem to have negative impacts.

In fact, when cats smell catnip it releases a lot of endorphins – it’s quite similar to the ‘natural high’ humans get from exercise. It’s thought that cats have evolved this reaction because the endorphin release causes behaviors like rolling, which increases the contact of the cat with the catnip, improving their protection against mosquitoes and other insects.

The endorphins released when cats sniff catnip work on the opioid receptors. ‘Opioids?’ I hear you say – yes, these are the same receptors that opioids like morphine and heroin act on, which definitely adds weight to the idea that catnip gives cats a high!

What is a catnip ‘high’ like for cats?

When cats smell catnip, their body reacts to a natural compound in the plant called nepetalactone by releasing lots of endorphins. These endorphins act on opioid receptors in the body, causing feelings of pleasure and relaxation.

Not all cats respond to catnip (studies show that about one in three don’t!) but for those that do, the response is very fast. Cats initially sniff and chew the leaves, then become excited within seconds, rolling in the scent and sometimes running about from room to room.

The effect wears off after about 10 minutes. The cat won’t then respond to catnip for a couple of hours, but during this time they may be sleepier than usual.

Can cats overdose on catnip?

The good news for our catnip-crazy felines is that it isn’t possible for cats to overdose on the smell of catnip. Once the initial excitement has worn off, the cat becomes uninterested in the catnip for a couple of hours.

Even if they were to then sniff the catnip and have another high, there is no harm in this – it’s all natural and caused by their endorphins.

That said, catnip can be bad for cats if they eat too much of it, so if your cat tries to eat catnip as part of their reaction you may have to prevent them from eating it. It’s not toxic as such, but it can cause an upset stomach if they eat a lot.

Can cats get addicted to catnip?

One of the major concerns with human opioids and human highs is over-reliance and addiction. Since the last thing we want is a crazy catnip-addicted moggy, it’s worth exploring whether cats can get addicted to catnip.

Luckily, there’s no evidence that this is the case. Even cats who are used to regular catnip highs don’t seem to have withdrawal symptoms when it’s removed, and because it uses natural endorphins, it’s less likely that any sort of addiction could be created.

That said, some humans get addicted to the natural endorphins from exercise, so it’s possible that some cats would miss the catnip reaction and come to crave it, it’s just that we don’t recognize these behaviors as addiction.

How does catnip compare to a human high?

When humans seek a ‘high’, they’re wanting to experience intense feelings of pleasure and relaxation, sometimes alongside ‘out of body’ experiences and hallucinations.

They seek the drugs most likely to give them this feeling. Since the feeling is very pleasurable, it becomes something people want more of and, for some drugs, their body becomes used to the drug, meaning they need to take more and more often to get the same effect.

Catnip isn’t like that. Firstly, as far as we know, cats don’t crave catnip or don’t go looking for catnip as a way to get high. They probably aren’t thinking “I fancy a high, where’s my catnip?” – it’s a more natural, instinctive reaction than that. The smell of catnip sets off a chain reaction – not dissimilar to the way the smell of your favorite food might cause you to salivate.

Secondly, cats don’t usually become immune to catnip or seek it out in greater and greater amounts. If a cat reacts to catnip, they usually react to it for the rest of their lives (bar the couple of hours after the excitement phase, where they seem to have no interest in it).

Catnip does become less potent over time though, so if your cat seems to be becoming immune to their catnip, try buying some new catnip.

Lastly, there’s no evidence that cats have hallucinations or out-of-body experiences while on catnip. Although some pet parents report that cats run from room to room and assume this is hallucinations, it might just be a way of cats burning off extra energy and excitement.

In my opinion, the answer to “does catnip get cats high?” is yes, but it depends on how you define a high. Since my definition is “feelings of intense pleasure and relaxation”, and this seems to be what cats feel when they sniff catnip, I think cats do get a ‘high’ from catnip.

That said, it’s important to remember that this is a ‘natural high’ stimulated by the cat’s own endorphins. The good news is that there doesn’t appear to be anything harmful or addictive about catnip, so you can safely let your cat play with their favorite catnip (or silvervine!) toys.

Read next: What does catnip do to cats? or Can kittens have catnip? or Can cats eat catnip?

Edited by Megan Milstead.

Valerian for cats has recently gained popularity as a potential alternative to catnip, but just how effective is it, and is it safe for your feline friend? If your cat doesn’t respond to catnip, you might be wondering if valerian could be a suitable option to use.

As a vet with over 13 years of experience working with cats, I’ve seen first-hand how different cat attractants affect feline behavior. While catnip is the most well-known stimulant, valerian offers a unique alternative that can provide similar effects. Some cats love it, while others may have a different reaction.

If you’re looking for a fun way to engage your feline with the best cat toys, valerian-infused products could be a great option. You can also explore some of the best catnip toys too.

In this feature, I’ll explain everything you need to know about valerian, how cats react to it, and whether it’s a safe and beneficial choice for your pet.

What is valerian?

Valerian (valeriana officinalis) is a flowering plant known for its strong, distinctive scent and its calming effects in humans. It is native to parts of Asia and Europe. While it is commonly used as a natural sleep aid for humans, it has a different effect on cats.

Valerian contains an active compound called actinidine. This compound stimulates cats and triggers a euphoric response similar to catnip. After sniffing valerian, cats will often start rolling around, rubbing themselves on things, purring loudly, and becoming very playful!

Cats can experience valerian in various forms, including:

• Dried valerian root: Often used as a stuffing for cat toys.
• Valerian-infused sprays: Can be applied to scratching posts or bedding.
• Valerian powder: Sprinkled onto toys or surfaces to encourage play.

How do cats react to valerian?

Cats react to valerian in a way that is similar to catnip, but the effects can vary. The active ingredient, actinidine, acts as a stimulant in some cats, common responses include:

• Increased energy and playful behavior
• Drooling/hypersalivation
• Rolling, rubbing, and purring
• Temporary euphoria or excitement
• Some cats may become overly excited or aggressive

Pros of using valerian for cats:

1. It can act as a natural stimulant
Very similar to catnip, valerian contains compounds that can trigger playful and energetic behavior in cats. This makes it a good enrichment tool, especially for cats that don’t respond to catnip.

2. It may help to reduce stress and anxiety
While valerian initially stimulates many cats, it later has a calming effect, which may help with stress-related behaviors such as excessive grooming, hiding, or aggression.

3. It can be useful for encouraging healthy exercise and play
Some cats become more active after exposure to valerian, making it a helpful way to encourage play in less active or overweight felines.

4. It may act as a potential sleep aid for restless cats
The sedative properties of valerian may help some cats settle down, particularly those prone to nighttime hyperactivity.

5. It may act as a natural alternative to synthetic calming aids
Valerian is a plant-based option for cat owners looking to avoid synthetic calming sprays or medications.

Cons of using valerian for cats

1. Not all cats respond to it
Just like catnip, some cats are indifferent to valerian and may show no reaction at all.

2. It can cause overstimulation which may lead to hyperactivity
While valerian has a calming effect on some cats, it can make others overly excited or agitated. This can result in excessive unwanted bursts of energy or even aggression.

3. It has a very strong odor
Valerian has a pungent, earthy smell that some people may find unpleasant. If used in toys or sprays, the scent may linger in your home.

4. It may cause digestive upset
If a cat ingests large amounts of valerian root, it may cause mild gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea.

5. It is not suitable for all cats
Valerian may not be ideal for cats with certain medical conditions, such as heart disease or kidney issues. Always check with a vet before introducing valerian to a cat with health issues.

6. It can be unpredictable
Unlike catnip, which typically stimulates cats for a few minutes before they become calm, valerian can have a more prolonged or unpredictable effect.

Is valerian safe for cats?

Yes, valerian is generally safe for cats when used in moderation. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Always use it in small amounts: Too much valerian can cause your cat mild digestive upset.

2. Always supervise your cat: As mentioned above, some cats can become overly excited or slightly aggressive when exposed to valerian.

3. Avoid valerian supplements for humans: These may contain additional ingredients that aren’t safe for cats.

The safest way to introduce valerian is through cat-specific products, such as valerian-filled toys or powders designed specifically for feline use. If your cat has any pre-existing health conditions, consult your vet before using valerian for the first time.

Does valerian affect all cats?

No, not all cats react to valerian. Just like catnip, the response to valerian is controlled by genetics. The BMC Vet Research Journal suggests that around 50-70% of cats have a sensitivity to catnip, and a similar percentage may respond to valerian.

Kittens under six months old and senior cats are less likely to react, as the sensitivity to valerian (and other cat attractants) is linked to a cat’s genetic makeup and age.

If your cat doesn’t respond to valerian, you might want to try other alternatives like silver vine or Tatarian honeysuckle, both of which have been shown to stimulate cats that don’t react to catnip.

Is valerian stronger than catnip?

Valerian and catnip both have stimulating effects on cats, but valerian is often considered stronger and longer-lasting than catnip. It can be difficult to gauge as the reaction varies between individual cats. Some may respond more intensely to valerian, while others prefer catnip.

Here are the key differences:

• Active compounds: Catnip’s nepetalactone triggers a brief euphoric reaction by stimulating sensory neurons. Valerian contains actinidine and valerenic acid, which can either energize or relax cats.
• Effects on cats: Catnip typically causes playful rolling and rubbing for five to 15 minutes before fading. Valerian’s effects last longer and vary – some cats become hyperactive, while others relax.
• Sensitivity: About 50–75% of cats react to catnip, while valerian affects a different group, including some that don’t respond to catnip.

Alternatives to valerian

Silver Vine (Actinidia polygama) is considered even stronger than both catnip and valerian. It contains multiple active compounds, including actinidine and dihydroactinidiolide, making it effective for up to 80% of cats, including many that do not respond to catnip.

Tatarian honeysuckle (Lonicera tatarica) also has effects similar to those of silver vine, but fewer studies exist on its efficacy. Most vets recommend silver vine because it is generally reported to affect the highest percentage of cats. It tends to produce a more consistent, balanced response.

Valerian can be a great alternative to catnip for cats that respond to it, offering similar stimulating and playful effects. While not all cats react to valerian, those that do may experience a euphoric, energetic response followed by relaxation. Understanding these herbs and how they work can enable cat owners to choose the best option for their furry friend.

Read now: What catnip does to cats and is catnip bad for cats?

Edited by Megan Milstead.

This page was last updated in April 2025 by Emma Chandley.

The Amazon Big Spring Sale officially launches tomorrow, March 25th, so you can imagine our surprise when we saw the Yaheetech Large Cat Tower on sale for 40% off!

There are so many benefits to having a cat tower in your home. Firstly, it will cut down on the amount of equipment your cat needs around the house. You can combine a scratching post with a place for them to climb and hide away if they need a break.

We voted this model as the best overall option in our guide to the best cat trees and it's easy to see why.

If you're trying to keep the peace in a multi-pet home, you'll find this cat tower particularly helpful. There are enough perches and hiding spaces for multiple cats to play on without crowding each other.

The scratching post is made from sisal, a super strong material designed to help keep cats' claws healthy and in good shape. We also love the dangling rope on this cat tree, which is perfect if you're looking for ways to build more fun into your cat's routine.

The only downside to this cat tree is that is larger, so if you are short on space you may find it too big. But never fear, we also saw the smaller version of this cat tree is on sale as well! The smaller size stands at 42" tall compared to the bigger model, which is 63" tall.

If you're still on the fence about buying this cat tree, check out these fun DIY cat trees, that you can put together yourself.

However, if you're not a handy pet parent, this cat tree at this great price so now’s the perfect time to invest!

Why do cats like hair ties? It's a question you may have found yourself pondering if you regularly find your feline friend playing with the colorful bands you use to fix your luscious locks in place.

As pet parents, most of us spend a lot of time researching and purchasing the best cat toys to keep our beloved bundles of fluff entertained and out of mischief. Yet cats being cats, it's often simple things like hair ties and cardboard boxes that they find the most captivating.

Hair ties look so uninteresting to us humans, so we were curious to find out what it is about them that makes them so enticing to cats. To help us out, we turned to expert vet Dr. Rebecca MacMillan who was more than happy to share her thoughts with us.

Below, she reveals why cats like hair ties. Plus, she explains why these small, seemingly innocuous items can be so dangerous to cats and how you can stop your kitty from playing with them.

Why do cats like hair ties?

When it comes to funny things cats do, playing with hair ties is definitely on the list. If you're anything like us, you may be wondering what it is about those colorful elastic bands you put in your hair that your feline friend finds so appealing, so we spoke to Dr. MacMillan to find out! Here's what she had to say...

1. Curiosity

One of the ways cats learn about the world around them is to investigate different objects as they come across them. In order to decide whether something is safe or unsafe, they'll use their paws to pick it up, pat at it or swat it.

"Cats are curious by nature and discover the world through play," explains Dr. MacMillan. "Kicking a hair tie around helps them to learn more about this object."

2. Texture

Have you invested in several of the best interactive cat toys only to find that your feline friend prefers playing with a hair tie? Blame it on the texture!

"Cats seem to like chewing on the elastic material of a hair tie," says Dr. MacMillan. Some hair ties are soft while some are crinkly, these textures are all exciting for a cat to explore!"

3. Movement

While we may have welcomed them into our homes and our hearts, domestic cats still have strong hunting instincts leftover from the days when they needed to stalk and kill prey in order to survive.

Even though you likely feed your kitty plenty of the best cat food each day, those survival instincts remain strong, which is why you'll so often see them engaging in predatory behavior with toys.

"The small, quick movements of a hair tie being batted around tap into your cat’s natural hunting instincts," Dr. MacMillan confirms. "The hair tie mimics the motions they would expect to see in their prey."

4. They're comforting

One of the little known facts about cats is that they have more than 200 million odor senses in their noses – compare that to us humans who have just five million. This means that their sense of smell is 14 times better than ours, so while we may not be able to smell our scent on a hair tie, our feline friend certainly can.

"For some cats, it may be because the hair tie smells of their owner, or perhaps they like the elastic smell," says Dr. MacMillan. "We can’t know for sure, but what we do know is that cats have a very keen nose and there is something about hair ties that particularly appeals to them."

5. Because they're fun

While things like texture, movement and familiar smell could explain why cats like hair ties so much, as Dr. MacMillan says, it could also be down to the fact that pawing at them and tossing them about is an enjoyable way to pass the time.

"Many cats just find them good fun to play with! They can be chewed, stretched, and easily thrown about. Playing is your cat’s way of keeping boredom at bay."

Is it OK for my cat to play with hair ties?

While our feline friends may adore playing with hair ties, Dr. MacMillan says it's important as pet parents that we don't encourage them.

"Hair ties can be extremely dangerous if swallowed, potentially obstructing your cat’s digestive tract. This could lead to your pet requiring life saving surgery," she explains.

"From cases I’ve seen in practice, it is rarely just one hair tie that a cat swallows but multiple, often unnoticed and over a period of time. This is how blockages can occur. It is not worth taking the risk so please keep hair ties well out of reach or safely stowed away."

How to stop a cat playing with hair ties

According to Dr. MacMillan, the simplest way to ensure your kitty doesn't play with your hair ties is to keep them out of reach.

"Try keeping them in a dedicated drawer or a jewelry box, so that your cat can’t see them," she suggests. "Make sure that all your family members know not to leave hair ties lying around. The same goes for any elastic bands too."

Make sure that when you remove the hair ties you replace them with plenty of kitty-safe toys for your fur friend to play with. Cats get bored just like we do, so if you notice that they're grooming incessantly, vocalizing excessively, scratching the furniture or fighting with other cats, these are all signs your cat isn't getting what it needs to be happy.

"You must engage in regular play sessions and provide your cat with plenty of positive attention, to keep boredom at bay," Dr. MacMillan confirms. We recommend two play sessions a day of around 15 minutes each and for those times when you're too busy to engage with your kitty, having a few of the best automated cat toys– on hand can be a real lifesaver.

You might also want to read about the importance of cat play and how to play with a cat. Or, learn why cats sit on their toys

Edited by Megan Milstead.

When you’re a cat parent, it can be tempting to want to spend money on your cat. Of course, having pets does cost money, and you’ll need to buy things like food, toys, and treats fairly regularly.

However, while it’s a great idea to buy some of the best cat toys or best cat treats now and again, it’s not always the best idea to buy the most expensive interactive toys, gadgets, and pieces of furniture. They won’t always work the way we think they will, and we’ve all seen cats ignore fancy new toys in favor of the cardboard boxes they arrived in!

Certified cat behaviorist Saba Sayyed, known as A Cat Behaviorist, has explained why the most glitzy and expensive products aren’t always the best – to help us save money and keep our cats happy and healthy at the same time!

1. Diffusers and calming sprays aren’t magic: “They can help for a short time, but they don’t address why your cat is stressed,” explains Sayyed.

If we really want to help our cats, it’s best that we get to the root cause of their anxiety or frustration. Otherwise, we’re just papering over the issue.

2. Cats aren’t bothered about price tags: As Sayyed puts it, and as many of us cat parents know, “Your cat isn’t impressed by expensive toys – they’re happy with a crumpled paper ball or a simple wand toy. What they really need is ways to exhaust their physical and mental energy without causing chaos in your home.”

3. It’s better to understand than guess: The more you understand your cat’s behavior, the less you need to guess what the issue is.

“This means fewer unnecessary vet visits and fewer products gathering dust in your home. You will know what works and what does not work for you once you decode their personality,” Sayyed explains.

4. Marketing gimmicks fool us: “Food labels, litter claims, and gadgets all sound promising,” she continues, “But what your cat truly needs is often simpler and far less expensive – quality food, a stress-free environment, and the behavior training from you!”

We always bear this in mind when writing our buying guides to the best products – we try to test as much as we can ourselves, so that we can really give you the best recommendations.

5. Prevention will save you money: When it comes to issues like anxiety, aggression, and problems using the litter box (such as your cat peeing outside the litter box), it’s better to prevent it in the first place. The more clued up you are on cat behavior, the more you’re likely to save on vet bills and expensive fixes.

6. Invest in knowledge: “Cat behavior training equips you to truly understand your cat,” says Sayyed. “When you know what they need, you’ll stop buying unnecessary products and focus on what actually works.”

If you’d like more advice for your feline friend, here are some common cat behavior problems solved and tips for training a cat. We also have rounded up some weird cat behaviors that you might be worried about.

If you've ever questioned, “What is silver vine?”, then you're not alone. Although most people have heard of catnip, it actually only affects two in three cats. This means some kitties don’t seem to get the same reaction from smelling catnip or playing with the best catnip toys. So, could silver vine be a good alternative?

I’ve been a vet for eight years, and I’ve fostered many cats in my time. Most of them responded to catnip, but it’s always a bit disappointing when they don’t.

Although silvervine has been used in cats for decades, it has only recently become more widespread – probably thanks to the internet! In fact, it’s so popular now that there are even studies investigating its use.

Below, I've explained what silvervine is, how it’s used, and whether it’s safe for cats to use.

What is silver vine?

Silver vine (Actinidia polygama) is a fast-growing climbing plant that’s related to kiwi fruit. It grows in mountainous areas of Asia, particularly Korea, Japan, and China.

In traditional Chinese medicine, silver vine has many uses and is also called matatabi, but it’s also known as cat powder because of its effect on cats. This was first documented in 1906, when the silver vine plant was imported to Harvard Arboretum and the observed effect on local cats was published in the journal Science.

Silver vine is more popular than catnip in Japan, where cat owners have probably been using it for its euphoric effect for centuries! Don’t be surprised if you haven’t heard of it before though – most Australian and US vets haven’t either! In fact, it’s only because I spend so much of my time writing and researching that I’ve come across it – it’s very new to the Western world!

What does silver vine do to cats?

Like catnip, the smell of silver vine can make cats react strangely, causing them to roll and rub their cheeks and faces. While we don’t know exactly why, it’s thought that natural plant chemicals related to nepetalactone (the compound in catnip) are the cause.

Since these chemicals are natural insect repellents, cats may have evolved to behave like this around silver vine because the behavior spreads the chemicals on their fur, helping them prevent mosquito bites. Another possibility is that these chemicals mimic scents used by cats to communicate.

Silver vine and catnip are good enrichment for cats – they improve a cat’s welfare by providing them with a different scent that they seem to enjoy. When cats respond to these smells, they can cause an increase in positive behaviors like cat play.

Which cats is silvervine good for?

There’s no information about which cats are more likely to react to silvervine – they seem to react equally whether they’re male or female, young or old.

Most cats do respond to it, especially if they don’t respond to catnip, so why not give it a go? If your cat doesn’t respond to silver vine or catnip, you might want to give up. While there’s a small chance they’ll respond to Tatarian honeysuckle or valerian root, only 3% of cats that didn’t respond to catnip or silvervine did respond to one of these two (according to this study).

Is silver vine stronger than catnip?

While catnip only produces one iridoid compound at a high level, silver vine produces several related compounds, especially when the leaves are damaged. This combined smell seems to be more exciting to cats, and cats respond more strongly to silver vine than catnip in this study.

Another study also found that cats responded more intensely to silver vine. In this study, they tested 100 cats to see which of four plants they responded to best. They found that eight in 10 cats responded to silver vine, while only seven out of 10 responded to catnip.

The study also found that the response to silver vine was more intense. In addition, of the three in 10 cats that didn’t respond to catnip, 70% responded to silver vine, meaning silver vine is a good option for cats that don’t respond to catnip. You might also want to read our feature that answers, 'What does catnip do to cats?'

What about types of silver vine?

The type of silvervine used seems to make a difference. One very small study suggests cats do respond to dried fruits, but only if the fruit was infected with a parasitic insect causing a ‘gall’.

These silver vine fruit galls can make good natural cat toys when dried. Silver vine sticks are less likely to cause the ‘catnip effect’, causing only one in five to respond in the study, likely because they have lower amounts of the necessary chemicals.

The leaves seem to work well, regardless of whether the plant had been grown in Asia (and therefore likely attacked by the parasitic midge) or in the USA.

Is silver vine safe for cats?

Like catnip, silver vine appears to be safe for cats. They don’t get addicted, and continuous use didn’t cause stress changes in the blood, or kidney or liver injury in this study.

While the study population was small, they checked cats over a three-year period and didn’t identify any causes for concern. We also know that silver vine has been used in Japan for a long time and if its use caused problems, we would expect to see higher rates of diseases there.

You might be questioning: Does catnip get cats high? and can cats eat catnip? Or, find out the answer to, is catnip bad for cats? and Can kittens have catnip? For more catnip alternatives, learn about valerian for cats.

When it comes to our cats, we all love to treat them when we can. From tasty treats and catnip to toy mice and feather toys, there are all manner of products out there that we hope will make our feline friends happy!

But while some of the best cat treats in moderation won’t go amiss, nor would a good cat tree, it might not be the best idea to spend a lot of money on expensive cat toys. Certified cat behavior psychologist Saba Sayyed, or A Cat Psychologist, has explained why this might be the case in a recent Instagram post, and it’s certainly worth considering!

“Do not waste money on expensive toys for cats,” Sayyed says. “Instead, put your money on buying good quality cat trees, good quality wet and raw food, and a water fountain.”

She explains that, when you do buy toys, it’s a good idea to buy ones that imitate prey animals like insects, birds, and other small animals. This is because cats are predators, and the way they play often mimics hunting.

And, while we often make jokes about cats liking the box a toy comes in more than the toy itself, there is often some truth there. In Sayyed’s video, she shows her cat, Rya, rolling around in a box that once held Valentine’s Day flowers, but is now full of catnip.

Something you might decide to do for your cat is make toys yourself. Why not make one of these six fun DIY kitten toys to get the creative juice flowing? Or, for an older feline, you can check out these DIY cat toys you can make at home.

You don’t have to be a pro – but you will save some money and at the same time, you can allow your cat to tap into their natural instincts through play with toys targeted right to them.

Play is important for cats, can help you bond with them, and keeps both their mind and body active. But don’t feel under pressure to buy the most expensive toys you see – as long as your cat has good food and a nice cat tree, if you have space for one, it’s best to focus on the function of toys, rather than the price.

And, in short, your cat is more likely to appreciate you engaging in play with them than they are a host of expensive cat toys.

As cat owners, we cherish those playful moments with our feline companions, but are we truly engaging them in a way that satisfies their natural instincts? 

Mastering how to play with a cat isn't just about fun and games – it's a vital aspect of their well-being, providing mental stimulation, exercise, and a chance to express their natural hunting behaviors. 

Feline behaviorist Shani, the owner of Wild at Heart cat behavior solutions, took to TikTok to shed some light on the art of feline play and its significance in keeping our kitties entertained and content.

"If they're not treating their toys like prey, they will absolutely treat you like prey," Shani emphasizes. Understanding and fulfilling a cat's natural instincts are essential in avoiding undesirable behaviors or other signs your cat isn't getting what it needs to be happy. Engaging in play that mimics hunting activities helps channel their energy positively and enrichingly.

Shani holds a CFTBS (Certified Feline Training and Behavior Specialist) Certification from the Animal Behavior Institute. Her expertise in feline behavior has led her to recognize that proper playtime is key to a cat's physical and emotional health.

You can watch her TikTok video below or continue reading to learn her expert advice on playing with cats.

In the video, Shani begins by enticing her 15-year-old cat, Sweetpea, with an energetic chase, mimicking prey behavior. Introducing Sweetpea's favorite wand toy (similar models can be found in our best cat toys roundup), she matches her energy, moving the toy sporadically to pique her interest.

To further engage Sweetpea, Shani incorporates the use of a blanket, using the end of the wand toy to create movement underneath it which she says cats love. Shani shares that her cat Sweetpea enjoys playing under doors and over beds, indicating how essential it is to explore a variety of play scenarios.

During the play session, Shani observes Sweetpea going through the prey sequence, a series of stages cats follow during hunting: staring, stalking and chasing, pouncing and grabbing, and performing a "kill bite." Cats may not follow the exact order of the sequence, but allowing them to go through all the stages, especially the "kill bite," is crucial to satisfying their instincts.

Shani advises not making the toy too easy to catch, as it diminishes the fulfillment of the prey sequence. She recommends finishing the play session with a meal, some of the best dry cat food or best wet cat food, mirroring the hunting experience in the wild. In the wild, cats hunt, kill, and then eat, and incorporating this ritual into playtime offers a more satisfying and complete experience for our domesticated pets.

Understanding your cat's play style and preferences is essential for an enjoyable play session. Shani stresses the importance of offering a variety of toys and switching them up during playtime to keep cats engaged. 

"If your cat is bored with a toy have two to three ready on hand to re-engage your cat," she explains, "Because you want them to be super excited and you want them to have that energy output so they can relax and calm down and get those predator instincts out of their system".

Ultimately, investing time in purposeful play with a cat allows them to exercise their predatory instincts, expend excess energy, and develop a stronger bond with their owners.

The best cat toys play a huge role in your feline’s health and happiness, which is why it’s a good idea to have plenty to hand. Not only do these boredom busters keep your cat mentally stimulated, but they also help them to release pent-up energy and stay fit.

We understand that every cat is different, which is why we’ve tested a variety of toys to suit each preference, narrowing it down to just six below. If you’ve got an active cat, then they’ll love pouncing after the Frisco Teaser Wand, which we voted as our top pick overall.

For felines that enjoy mental stimulation, we’ve included a puzzle toy that will keep their brain ticking, as well as a tunnel for those curious kitties. Or, if you’ve noticed your cat is feeling a little more anxious than usual, the catnip option is great way to relax them while promoting exercise.

We've also got a guide on the best toys for indoor cats if your furry friend doesn't venture outdoors, and the best automated cat toys for independent play. Here's what we recommend:

The quick list

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The best cat toys we recommend

The best cat toy overall

This teaser toy is a great way to keep your furry friend fit and active – they'll have hours of fun chasing the colorful ribbon, which is available in two colors. Not only does it encourage their natural instincts to hunt and pounce, but it’s also a fantastic chance for a bonding session.

The toy comes highly recommended by our tester Julie Johnson and her pets, Holly and Max. She suggests it for all cats, especially those who are older, kept indoors, or just need a little bit more exercise.

Julie says: “My cats both love pouncing on anything slinky that moves. I flip it around on the bed and sling the ribbon over the edge, and they jump up to attack it.”

When buying a new cat toy, durability is key. Julie was pleased to find that this one lasted well through testing and appeared to be well-made. While we also tried the Ethical Pet Feather Dangler Wand and the Multipet Lamb Chop Wand, the Frisco Teaser was by far the most durable and didn’t pose safety concerns like the other ones did.

This is the best cat toy overall, thanks to its high-quality design and how effectively it grabs a cat’s attention, encouraging them to play and stay fit. Plus, it's a total bargain for under $6!

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The best catnip cat toy

If your kitty loves catnip, they’re going to adore the Catit Groovy Fish – I’ve never tested anything quite like it. My cats usually lose interest in these kinds of toys within a couple of days, but thanks to the refillable catnip pocket in this one, my cat Chilli keeps coming back to it and doesn’t seem to get bored. It also comes with a tube of catnip, which has lasted me for months and is really handy to top it up.

When the stomach is tapped or bitten into, the fish flips from side to side, mimicking the movements of prey and triggering your cat’s natural hunting instincts. While the manufacturer says there are three different movement modes to choose from, the fish appears to move in the same way every time for me, but this isn't a problem.

In the last edition of this guide, I voted the Pioneer Pet Catnip Toy Nip Nibblers and Planet Pleasures Spiral Cylinder as the best catnip toys, but I found that the catnip wore off over time. Since the Groovy Fish has a refillable pocket for the catnip, it has lasted me so much longer in comparison.

The fish makes a slightly annoying noise when it's moving around, but it doesn't stop me from using it as I love how happy it makes Chilli. If this bothers you, you can manually turn off the automated feature and give it to your cat as a regular plush toy. It comes with a USB-C charger and the battery life is pretty good, lasting up to 250 rounds.

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The best puzzle cat toy

If your cat has never tried a puzzle before, the Buggin' Out toy is a great one to start with. There are eight compartments to hide their treats in, and they'll have to spin the pegs and leaves to retrieve them.

My cat Chilli hasn’t always been the biggest fan of puzzle toys, so this is a great easy option for beginners like him; he used both his nose and paws to claim the food. I store the toy in my guest room, and now and then, he’ll seek it out to play with – he's become a huge fan! My other cat, Nala, has loved this toy from day one and whenever I get it out, she follows me around, eager to give it a try.

This toy is made from high-quality materials and feels very durable. The design is BPA, PVC, and phthalate-free, which is always important for toys involving treats. It costs under $19, which I think it's excellent value for money based on the quality, durability and how much my cats enjoy playing with it.

The only drawback is that it moves around on hard flooring, but this can be resolved by placing it on carpet or some type of mat. While the manufacturer says it's possible to adapt the difficulty level, it's still pretty easy no matter how you set it up. That being said, it's never too easy and stimulates my cats each time.

In the previous edition of this guide, I voted the Nina Ottosson Rainy Day Puzzle as one of the best cat toys, but decided to narrow it down to just the Buggin' Out Puzzle, which is suitable for more abilities.

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The best tunnel cat toy

Our freelance writer, Kathryn, voted the Pawaboo Cat Tunnel Tube Toy as her top pick in our interactive cat toy guide, and it's easy to see why. Like most cats, her curious kitty Roxy couldn't resist taking a peek inside and loves hiding in it before she catches her teaser toy 'prey' on the outside.

The tunnel comes with a bell, a ball, and a peep hole in the middle to make things more interesting. If you buy two, you can attach them together, giving your cat even more space to explore.

It comes with additional balls and bells, which the manufacturer claims will keep your cat entertained for hours, but Roxy wasn't too fussed about them. However, she enjoys it when Kathryn waves a teaser toy at the entrance points (you could pair it with the Frisco Teaser Wand recommended in this guide).

Kathryn says she loves how easy it is to assemble and notes that the elastic band it comes with makes it effortless to store away. The tubes pop out easily, though it can be a bit of a challenge to fold them back together again.

The lightweight and compact design is ideal for traveling and makes it easy to store away when needed. You can even pop it out in the car for some on-the-go entertainment!

While the tunnel arrived with a rip at the seam, this may have happened during transit, and Kathryn says it’s holding up well after months of frequent play. For under $24, this is excellent value for money.

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The best cat toy for interactive play

The SmartyKat Bouncy Mouse is my top pick for interactive play and does a great job of tapping into your cat's natural hunting instincts. A fluffy mouse is attached to the end of a bouncy string, and it even has a ring for you to slip your finger into, making playtime more comfortable.

Our tester, Julie Johnson, loves this toy and praised its durability, saying it held up well after lots of play with her cats. Not only is it a great choice for interactive play, but surprisingly, it also works well for solo sessions. Julie hangs it over her cat tree, and her felines enjoy whacking it with their paws.

Since the string is a bit short, it limits the degree of bounce, so you might consider the Frisco Teaser Wand instead which offers a better range of motion. If you're wondering how the two compare, here's a quick breakdown:

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The best cat toy for independent play

If your cat enjoys stalking and hunting their prey, they’re going to love this interactive toy by Pawaboo. It's automated and features a little mouse that runs around, popping in and out of the holes for your cat to swat and pounce on – you can even adjust the speed.

Our tester, Kathryn, was initially concerned that Roxy might get her paws stuck inside but was happy to see that it had a paw-friendly design, helping her feel more comfortable leaving her alone with it. She says it's great for independent play and keeps Roxy busy and engaged for about 10 minutes, encouraging her to release pent-up energy.

Kathryn recommends this toy for independent breeds with lower energy levels, and if your cat prefers to play with people, the Frisco Teaser Toy Wand might be a better option. She also notes that the movements can get a little repetitive after a while.

I’ve tested the Petchain Interactive Cat Toy, another mouse-style toy for cats to chase, but it doesn’t work well on carpets and sometimes gets stuck in corners or under furniture. That’s why I think the Pawaboo is the better choice for independent and automated play.

This might be the most expensive toy in the guide, costing around $30, but we think it's worth the money after giving it a go. However, if you want an automated toy that's a bit cheaper, you might want to opt for the Catit Groovy Fish instead which is around $12.

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Other cat toys we tested

Since this guide was last updated, we’ve continued testing the included products. After reviewing them, we decided to replace the following items, as we felt better options are available.

Nina Ottosson by Outward Hound Rainy Day Puzzle & Play Cat Toy | $19.99 at Amazon

You can't go wrong with a puzzle by Nina Ottosson; they're always entertaining, high-quality, durable, and made from food-safe materials. My cat, Nala, really enjoys playing with their Rainy Day toy, which is an excellent choice for advanced puzzle players like her. However, I found the Buggin' Out toy to be a better option for all abilities, as it's slightly easier to get the hang of.

Pioneer Pet Catnip Toy Nip Nibblers | $7.76 at Amazon

After speaking with certified cat behaviorist Joey Lasvardi, I learned that refillable catnip toys tend to last much longer, as catnip can lose its potency over time. While our tester Norah's cats had lots of fun with the Pioneer Pet Catnip Toy Nip Nibblers, I decided to replace it with the Caitit Groovy Fish which has the refillable pocket.

Planet Pleasures Spiral Cylinder with Catnip & Bell Cat Toy | $8.42 at Chew

Chilli and Nala loved playing with this toy for a month, but they got bored of it very quickly. The Catit Groovy Fish has held their attention for longer, thanks to its automated design and refillable catnip pocket.

Ethical Pet Feather Dangler Wand Cat Toy with Catnip | $7.79 at Chewy

This feather wand is a good way to keep your cat active, with feathers that mimic a bird and catnip to add excitement. Our tester Julie found that her cats enjoyed it, but she noted that it’s not very durable and “pretty easy for them to pull apart.” If you're looking for a sturdier teaser wand with a prey-style toy at the end, the SmartyKat Bouncy Mouse is a better choice – and you won’t have to keep such a close eye on playtime.

How we tested the best cat toys

We scoured the internet for the best cat toys and gave them to our team of testers to try out. Cat play is such an important part of their life – reducing boredom, keeping them active, and providing much-needed enrichment. That’s why we’ve rounded up the top options to ensure your cat stays fulfilled and happy.

Enjoyment: When you're buying a new cat toy, you want them to actually enjoy using it. We ensured the toys were engaging, exciting and fun for our felines. We also included real pictures and videos to prove how much they loved them! Some of these toys have been tested for as long as 10 months, while others have been used for at least a month.

Fit for purpose: If your cat doesn't understand how to use a toy, then it's pretty much useless. We made sure that all of the toys in the guide are easy for cats to understand and do what they say on the tin.

Durability and safety: We asked our testers to include details on the durability and safety of the toys to ensure there are no nasty surprises for you. We tested this by looking for signs of damage after frequent play, like feathers that come off and could pose a hazard. For puzzle feeders, we ensured that they were food-safe and BPA-free, as our pet's health takes first priority. For automated toys, we ensured the motor was covered and safe for paws.

Affordability: Everyone deserves access to the best cat toys, which is why we included a variety of price points within this guide, and some are under just $6!

As a team, we’ve tested countless cat toys over the years, but many didn’t make the cut. We’ve only included the ones we truly believe are worth it.

To learn more about our review process, read our dedicated page on how we test.

Meet our review panel

How to choose the best cat toy

Wondering which toy is best for your cat? Here's what I'd recommend for each personality type:

Before deciding on the best cat toys for your feline friend, you should assess your kitty's personality. How your cat interacts with toys and the environment will help to steer you towards more suitable products. Personality can also dictate the number of toys you need to buy to ensure a cat is suitably stimulated both mentally and physically.

“Cats that don’t have toys to display their inbuilt prey/play behaviors may start directing these behaviors on to people (particularly if owners encourage their cats with fingers or toes) and over time this can develop to be a substantial problem,” says Daniel Warren-Cummings, Cats Protection’s Central Behavior Officer.

“Frustration-related aggression or redirected play aggression can occur when cats are under-stimulated and need an outlet. If an owner’s cat is regularly displaying ‘zoomies’, then it’s a good indicator that they might be under-stimulated and need more toy play in their life.”

1. Watch your cat
By watching your cat and identifying certain behaviors, you can better target your toy buying. For example, if your cat is scratching the furniture, a toy that relieves the urge to scratch would work well. Likewise, if a cat is displaying an urge to chase, a toy which includes an element of hunting is sure to go down well.

2. Offer cats a challenge
“Wild cats would have spent a large part of their day hunting for food, but our domestic cats get it in a bowl twice daily. Filling the rest of their time can be tricky!,” says vet Dr. Joanna Woodnutt. “If your cat spends all their time indoors, consider using a puzzle feeder to help them keep those hunting instincts honed. Some puzzle feeders are designed to be hidden around the house so your cat has to hunt for his dinner!”

3. Feel free to experiment
Most cat toys are inexpensive so it's worth introducing a range of toys and seeing which ones your kitty takes to the most. You shouldn't give up quickly either. Cats are fickle creatures and while they may turn up their noses at a toy today, that doesn't mean they'll ignore it tomorrow. In some cases, cats can ignore toys for months and then suddenly fall in love with them.

4. Go for well-made toys
Finally, on a practical level, ensure the toys are robust, unlikely to fall apart under heavy play, and free of small pieces that could come away and be swallowed. As vet Dr. Joanna Woodnutt says: “A common danger is swallowed string from wand toys – if you allow your cat to ‘catch’ the toy, be sure to remove it before they chew through the elastic.”

Why does my cat not show an interest in toys?

There are many reasons why a cat may not show an interest in toys and much depends on the type of feline you have. Indoor cats often react in different ways to outdoor cats, for example. “Indoor cats need more entertainment than outdoor cats who will often engage in hunting activity or will play with fallen leaves or grass blowing in the wind,” confirms Daniel Warren-Cummings, Cats Protection’s Central Behavior Officer.

Sometimes a cat has the urge to do something but will find there is no way of expressing themselves. “Oftentimes a cat will want to play but does not have an appropriate outlet,” Warren-Cummings continues. “Some cats like to chase a feather fishing rod toy (not just have them dangled in their face), others prefer self-directed play with ping pong balls and others will prefer larger ‘kickeroo’ style toys to display more ‘bunny kicking’ behavior.”

Boredom with toys can also set in so it's your job to ensure they are entertained without being overstimulated. “It’s important to swap toys around regularly to keep them interesting and very short games of one to two minutes are fine,” Warren-Cummings adds. “And older cats will love playing three or four times a day, while younger cats will be happy to play 10 times a day or more.”

When it comes to catnip toys, some felines don’t react to them, so you might want to explore alternatives, like silvervine.

Why do cats put toys in water?

Every now and then, you may wander over to your cat's bowl and find a toy bobbing in the water. Sometimes, you may even find one in the toilet. But why? “The reason is unknown but there are a few theories,” says Daniel Warren-Cummings, Cats Protection’s Central Behavior Officer.

“Some cats may drop their toys into their water bowls in order to fish them out as their own form of playing. Other cats may have been reinforced for the behavior and thus it becomes a learned pattern. As long as the toy being in, or near, the bowl is not deterring the cat from drinking the water, there’s nothing to be concerned about and owners should just enjoy watching their weird and wonderful cats.”

If you want more expert advice, check out our guide on how to play with a cat and why your cat wants to play all the time. Or, for more product recommendations, read about the best automatic laser cat toys and the best DIY cat toys to try at home.

Edited by Georgia Guerin.

To keep your cat busy and happy, you need to stock up on the best interactive cat toys. Interactive toys give your cat the mental and physical stimulation they need to live happy and healthy lives.

Providing your cat with the best cat toys can help curb destructive behaviors by giving them something constructive to do instead. Luckily, there are many options when it comes to interactive cat toys. From balls to puzzles, there are endless great picks to keep your feline friend happy and entertained. But with so many choices, it can overwhelming to decide which one will be best for your cat. So we are here to help you.

Vet Dr. Joanna Woodnutt says, “Interactive cat toys provide a really good way to keep your cat entertained…In the wild, cats would spend a lot of their time hunting. Domesticated cats don’t need to hunt so they spend much of their time sleeping, but this can lead to boredom, behavioral problems, and weight gain.”

Let’s check out our top picks for the best interactive cat toys... spoiler alert, the Pawaboo Cat Tunnel Tube Toy was our absolute favorite.

The quick list

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The best interactive cat toys we recommend

Best interactive cat toy overall

My super inquisitive and playful Burmese cat, Roxy, couldn’t get into this three-way tunnel quick enough when I placed it on the floor — and it’s been a huge hit ever since! Ideal for active breeds who love to hunt, the tunnel features a peephole in the middle and two toys (a bell and a ball).

Roxy isn’t so interested in the toys that come with the tunnel, preferring a teaser wand to be waved about in the various entrance points. Still, she adores the tunnel itself and loves hiding inside and jumping out to capture her ‘prey’. She can be super fussy about what toys she’ll engage with, so the fact that she spends so much time in this tunnel speaks volumes.

As a pet parent, I love how easy the tunnel is to assemble (the tubes pop out in seconds) and it comes with an elastic band that you can use to secure it for storage - although I must admit I found it difficult to fold back up again! It’s also compact and light, so if Roxy is traveling with us, I can pop the tunnel in the car without it taking up space.

The only drawback is that the tunnel arrived with a rip at the seams (which may well be down to the courier). I did question how this would affect its long-term durability (Roxy is not a fan of gentle play!) but even with frequent use and a lot of claws being sunk into it, the tunnel is holding up beautifully two months after receiving it. It's not too expensive either, costing around $20.

Overall, If you have an active kitty who loves to hide, stalk ,and pounce, this tunnel is going to be hard to pass up. It features three entrance points, a peep hole and two toys, offering plenty of enrichment for playful and curious breeds.

If you'd prefer a toy that doesn't need assembly, we recommend one of the the other options in this guide, like the SmartyKat Bouncy Mouse.

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Best interactive cat toy runner-up

Our tester tried out the SmartyKat Bouncy Mouse with her cat and quickly found it to be a huge hit. “I hung it from the top platform of my cat tree, and my cat loves whacking it and batting at it while he's lounging in the hammock just below,” says Julie Johnson.

And we can’t say we’re surprised. Our tester found that the toy has a really realistic furry texture, just like a real mouse, and while the bouncing motion is somewhat restricted by the short cord, it still offers enough movement to bring out the hunter in your cat. If this is a deal breaker, we'd suggest the Go Cat Da Purr Peller Cat Toy instead.

Another thing we feel is really worth pointing out with this toy is that you can use it with your cat or set it up so that they can play independently. If you choose the former, simply slip the ring over your finger and let the mouse bob up and down at the end of the bungee cord. This is a great way to spend some quality time with your cat and strengthen your relationship.

Our tester found this toy to be very durable and states that it’s holding up well. While it may show signs of wear and tear sooner rather than later with very active breeds who like to engage in lots of rough play, on the whole, the SmartyKat Bouncy Mouse offers excellent value for money at under $6.

We also love that it can be used independently for solo play or together with you, which is great for strengthening your bond.

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Best budget interactive cat toy

If you have an indoor cat and are looking for a toy that mimics the prey they’d find in the great outdoors, these catnip-filled mice from Frisco are a real winner. Our pet parent tester, Julie Johnson, tried out this toy with her feline friends and found it got their enthusiastic paws up.

“It's the same size and shape as a real mouse, and my cats love anything that's got catnip in it. They are entirely indoors, so they could use a little exercise, and they love zipping across the floor, batting and chasing this toy.”

Packing triple the fun into one little package (a fuzzy texture to grab and bite, string tails to chase, and an infusion of catnip to go wild over), these mice are a super affordable way to provide your cat with the enrichment and stimulation they need each day to thrive. They're under $10 for 10 toys!

Just be mindful that the tails on these mice do come loose easily, so we recommend supervising your cat when they’re playing to avoid them being swallowed. Also, as Julie discovered, they’re quite small, so be prepared to be fishing them out from under furniture on a frequent basis if your cat loves them as much as Julie’s do!

If your cat doesn't react to catnip but loves chasing mice, try the Pawaboo Cat Toy with Running Mouse instead.

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Best interactive cat toy for independent play

This toy is a real game changer if you’re looking for a few moments of peace and quiet! Roxy isn’t really a fan of independent play, which can be challenging when I’m trying to get work done, but I’ve found popping this on the floor on a slow setting keeps her engaged for 10 minutes, helping to release excess energy.

You can also increase the speed at which the mouse moves too fast, which may appeal to some cats, but I found this setting tended to frustrate Roxy so I’ve stuck to the slower option. She seems to love how the mouse hides and then pops out of the different openings and the way the toy reverses offers a nice dose of unpredictability.

I’m a huge fan of how well this toy works on any surface (we have a mix of hardwood flooring and carpets and many interactive toys don’t do so well on the latter) and it’s very safe to use. I was worried Roxy might get her paws stuck while trying to capture the mouse, but it’s paw-friendly, which means I don’t have to watch her the whole time.

The one downside to this toy is that the repetitive movements didn’t keep Roxy engaged for as long as I had hoped. Because she likes to play with people rather than on her own, this toy didn’t offer enough to hold her attention for very long. If your cat's the same, we'd recommend the SmartyKat Bouncy Mouse instead. However, I do feel that more independent breeds with lower energy levels would really take to this toy.

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Best smart interactive cat toy

When I opened the box, I was surprised to discover just how tiny this smart ball actually is — but then again, most of our feline friends have petite paws and the small design has clearly taken that into account, making it easy for them to touch and bat about.

The Cheerble has three interactive modes — passive, normal, and gentle — which allow for lots of unpredictable fun. You can set it to bounce on contact, have it roll and bounce, or select a slower roll with no bouncing or shaking. This is a great feature that ensures the ball caters to the needs of all cats, regardless of their age or stage.

Soft yet durable, the ball works beautifully on wooden floors but I found it to be ineffective on carpeted surfaces. While the automatic obstacle avoidance feature does work well, you want to use this ball on a fairly uncluttered piece of flooring to save you having to fish it out from tight spaces on a frequent basis. If you want a toy that works on all surfaces, the Pawaboo Cat Toy with Running Mouse is a better choice.

I love that this ball can be charged via a USB cable and even better, that a full charge can be reached in just an hour. Roxy wasn’t a huge fan of the Cheerble ball but I don’t attribute that to the toy not being engaging — she’s simply very picky with what she’ll play with and smart balls don’t make her limited list. But if you have a cat that loves ball toys that offer unpredictable movements (and you have wooden floors), the Cheerble could well be a hit in your home.

Our editor, Georgia, also tested it and was super impressed with how busy it kept her cat, Annie, while encouraging her to run around. She recommends it for playful cats and kittens.

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Best interactive cat toy for encouraging exercise

Bring out the tiger in your cat with this fun toy that features a propeller of feathers that spin when flung through the air. Great for capturing and holding a cat's interest, our pet parent tester, Alisa Partlan, described the Go Cat Da Purr Peller as being one of her favorite interactive cat toys — something her feline friend strongly agrees with!

“With a flick of the wrist, the Da Purr Peller flies like a bird and fascinates my cat. With most wand toys, I have to drag it slowly across the floor or do some elaborate tricks to get her playing, but this one made it easy and fun to play with my cat,” she said.

And if your cat tends to really go for it, you'll be relieved to learn that if the feathers start to look worn and tired, you can swap them out with a brand spanking new attachment. “The toy can detach from the wand, so I was easily able to replace it with another attachment without buying a whole new wand.”

Made from all-natural pheasant feathers, this realistic toy is great for bringing out your cat’s natural hunting instincts, although just bear in mind that the feathers can come off, which our tester felt may pose a choking hazard. She also felt it may not hold up for long periods of time with certain cats. “If your cat is weirdly into attacking the wand itself, which mine is, this style of wand is not the sturdiest. It can break.” If you're concerned about the feathers, opt for the SmartyKat Bouncy Mouse instead.

Those small issues aside, our tester (and her kitty!) felt that this toy was fun, fascinating and definitely a huge hit in her home – especially for under $14!

We also tested

We recently tested the Enabot ROLA PetPal. While this is an AI robot pet camera, it does dispense treats through an app on your phone. The only downside is that to be able to use the treat dispenser, you have to purchase the accompanying attachment which runs about $49 (available on Amazon).

While this is an excellent product, our tester Megan finds it quite expensive, especially given that there are more affordable interactive options available.

How we tested the best interactive cat toys

There's a lot that goes into how we test products. We shopped around for the best interactive cat toys and then gave them to our team of testers to make sure these would be products that a cat would genuinely enjoy playing with. Here's what we took into consideration when we shortlisted these products:

• Durability/safety: Buying toys that are going to be durable enough to be played with multiple times is really important. We looked for products that could hold up to lots of biting and scratching and also assessed whether they were safe enough to be played with independently, or whether a cat would require supervision.
• Budget: Wherever possible, we've made sure that the toys included in this guide fall in the low to medium price category, offering options to suit all cat owners.
• Variety: It's good to mix things up with your cat and offer them a range of different types of playthings to keep them interested and entertained. With that in mind, we made sure to test out a variety of different options.

Meet our testers

How to choose the best interactive cat toy

When selecting the best interactive cat toy, there is one key consideration: your cat. It's important to select a product that will suit your kitty's personality and this means quickly assessing how your cat currently behaves and reacts to toys.

For example, curious and active felines will want toys that will keep them on the go while catnapping kitties will prefer something they can paw at every now and then with minimal effort. You should therefore consider whether or not a toy is fast-moving and eye-catching or slow and quiet while bearing a cat's age in mind – the older a cat is, the less active they are going to be.

Consider a cat's natural instinct, too. Cats like to hunt, climb, scratch, groom, hide, mark their territory and play so opt for interactive toys that tap into one or more of these. Toys which look like a cat's prey will often prove attractive which is why many mimic real-life animals or contain feathers. Sound is important, too. Kitties will usually wander over to anything making a noise.

Of course, you will also want a toy to last. Those made of hard, durable plastic or wood are more likely to withstand a cat's claws and teeth than anything soft. Just make sure there are no small parts which could become loose and potentially be swallowed. A good rule of thumb is to opt for toys from big brands with a track record of delivering high-quality products.

How much interactive play do cats need?

Cats love to have fun so it's vital that you know how to play with a cat. You should also understand why your cat wants to play all the time – often it's because they are bored, lonely, and craving attention. To that end, you're likely wondering how much play is sufficient, particularly if you're looking at how to entertain indoor cats who will naturally rely on your help for mental and physical stimulation to a greater degree than those who are able to roam outside.

According to vet Dr. Joanna Woodnutt, it may take less time than you think. “It’s a good idea to try to encourage your cat to be physically active in several short bursts each day,” she affirms. “For most adult cats, 10 to 15 minutes of play three to four times a day is perfect. Interactive cat toys can help with encouraging this physical activity even when you’re out of the house or busy.”

Of course, much depends on how active, old, and healthy your cat is. If your kitty is struggling to play for 10 to 15 minutes, simply seek to reduce the recommended length of time but increase the number of sessions each day.

How long can you leave a cat with an interactive toy?

It's advisable to stick to the 10 to 15 minute rule. If you allow a cat to play with an interactive toy for much longer than that, then it's likely your pet will become bored or frustrated with it.

Not only does that defeat the purpose of having the toy, you will be wasting money. The idea is to encourage your cat to engage in an activity without becoming overstimulated and you should not see an interactive toy as a permanent substitute for some human-cat playtime.

Want to learn more? Discover your cat's play personality and how to stop cat play aggression.

Edited by: Alexis De Leaver, Megan Milstead and Georgia Guerin.

Satisfy your curious kitty's desire to jump, pounce and stalk with the PetSafe Dancing Dot Laser Toy, now with 19% off this Prime Day. 

Chosen as our top pick in our guide to the best automated cat toys, this perfect plaything offers cats plenty of mental and physical stimulation with fast and rapid laser movements for challenging and unpredictable fun.

Simply place it on a flat surface or hang it from a doorknob and you can sit back and let the toy do its thing. The higher it is positioned, the wider the area the laser will cover and you can either set it for a one-off session or have it fire up automatically every couple of hours. 

• Amazon Prime Day pet deals 2022
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There are two main functional features – “One-Time-Play” and “Play-All-Day”. The first is activated by pressing and releasing the power button and it starts a session lasting 15 minutes.

The second requires you to press and hold the button until it beeps and this ensures that the toy will turn on for 15 minutes every couple of hours.

The 15-minute setting is great for a short burst of laser-powered fun, while the all-day play mode is perfect if you’re leaving your cat on its own for longer periods of time – the laser will turn on for 15 minutes every two hours.

It’s also perfectly safe – like most laser toys it uses a Class 1 laser to keep your feline friend protected from harm. 

Not to mention, it looks pretty fetching too - a fun, rounded design topped by a pair of cat ears and finished with a four-legged stand makes it a stylish addition to any home. Purrfection!  

Life can get busy, which is why having the best automated cat toys can be a real lifesaver. While they shouldn't replace interactive playtime with your feline altogether, they're super handy for keeping your kitty entertained when you have other things to do.

In comparison to the best cat toys, electronic ones can be a little more expensive, which is why it's important to do your research first. As someone who tests pet products for a living and has had cats for over 20 years, I have a great understanding of what makes a good toy and have rounded up my six top picks below for all types of cats and owners.

When curating this list, I looked for toys that stimulate natural behaviors and keep your cat engaged – but without breaking the bank! Below, you'll find a rolling ball for active cats, a mouse toy for high-prey-drive cats, and a teaser toy which is my top choice for all. These toys have been tested by our review panel and received their stamp of approval, so you can feel confident they will be worth your money.

Best automated cat toys

The best automated cat toys we recommend

Best automated cat toy overall

If you're looking for a fun way to encourage your cat to exercise more, the SmartyKat Loco Motion Electronic Cat Toy is our top pick. Most cats love teaser toys, but this one goes a step further by automatically moving around in unpredictable patterns.

This battery-powered device has two different speed settings, allowing you to customize it to your cat's preferences and switch things up if they get bored. You can program it for up to two hours of continuous play, making it a great choice for solo sessions and allowing you to get on with your own tasks while they have fun.

Our tester Janet says: "It usually keeps one or both of my cats engaged while it's moving. It's like an automated wand toy and they interact with it that way, chasing and pouncing the wand which has feathers on the end. Additionally, Rufio likes to detach the wand to play fetch.

"The base of the toy is quite durable. The wand is also fairly sturdy, but the feathers on the end take a beating. There are replacement wands you can get and we are on our third. The noise is a bit like a whirring motor, not loud enough to scare them or drown out the humans' conversations.

"My cats have stuffed mice and crinkly balls and plenty of other toys to keep them busy and entertained, but when I push the button on this one, they typically drop what they're doing to play with it. The toy was a gift from my sister and it is definitely one we appreciate!"

If you think the noise with bother you, the Cheerble M1 Smart Interactive Cat Toy has the option to be quieter if you put it on 'gentle' mode.

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Best automated cat toy runner-up

Our freelance writer, Kathryn, is a huge fan of this toy after trying it out with her cat, Roxy. She says it's been a game-changer for independent play, keeping her cat entertained for around 10 minutes when she needs to get on with other things.

Switch it on, and the little mouse will dip in and out of the toy, encouraging your cat to swat and pounce after it for mental and physical stimulation. Kathryn was initially concerned about Roxy's paws getting trapped inside, but thankfully, it has a paw-friendly design, so you don't have to worry.

There are two different speed settings to choose from to suit your cat's play style, but Roxy likes the slow option best. Unlike other automated cat toys we've tested (like the Petchain Mouse), this one works well on all surfaces, which Kathryn was very happy about.

This toy is heaps of fun, but Kathryn notes that it does get a little repetitive after a while, so if you have a cat who is easily bored, you might want to opt for the Enabot ROLA PetPal instead!

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Best automated cat toy with catnip

Catit Groovy Fish is a motion-activated toy that's sure to keep your cat engaged. When pressed on the stomach, the fish springs into action and wriggles about just like the real thing – perfect for tapping into their natural hunting instincts!

The padded cover is soft to the touch and features a special pocket where you can insert catnip, making it even more irresistible for your kitty to play with. You'll receive a tube of catnip with the toy, which is excellent value for money considering it's under $20! I've been testing this toy for months and still have three-quarters of the tube left.

You won't need to worry about buying batteries – simply recharge it using the USB-C cable that comes with it. The battery life is pretty good, lasting for 250 movement cycles before it needs a recharge, and I think I've only had to do this around two to three times in total.

While the manufacturer says there are three different movement modes to choose from, they all look pretty similar to me, though this certainly hasn't a deal breaker.

The toy is really easy to set up and use – simply turn on the switch, tap the belly, and you're good to go! Sometimes the noise can get a little bit annoying, so I’m happy it has an on/off switch, allowing my cats to enjoy it with or without the automated feature. If this is a deal breaker, I'd recommend the Cheerble M1 Smart Interactive Cat Toy instead, which doesn't make a noise.

My cat Chilli comes back to this toy time and time again – it's definitely the best one I've ever given him. He's the sort of cat who gets bored of toys really quickly, but he plays with this one a few times a week and has had it for months now!

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Best remote control automated cat toy

Enabot ROLA PetPal is a robot companion that does it all. Whether you want to use it as a cat toy, a treat dispenser, or a pet cam, it can do all three – and it even has a two-way talk feature!

To get started, you'll need to download a free app. Once connected to the robot, you can control its movements and actions through your phone. This might sound a little intimidating, but I promise it's easier than it seems (and that's coming from someone who hates reading instructions!)

There are lots of fun features to explore, like a laser for your cat to chase, a treat dispenser, and a camera to watch your kitty play. You have to buy the toy attachment separately, but for $49, I don't think it's worth it and is slightly disappointing that it's not already included. Instead, I recommend DIYing your own toy attachment by tying on a cheaper teaser toy (like this one from Amazon).

When you're in separate rooms, you can talk to your pet using the two-way communication feature, and watch their reaction on the camera. You can even play pre-recorded messages and other noises, like duck squeaks and meows.

While this toy is a bit pricey compared to others, I've had so much fun with it – it truly is a unique purchase. However, if the cost is putting you off, I'd recommend the SmartyKat Loco Motion Electronic Cat Toy instead, which costs considerably less.

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Best rolling automated cat toy

This toy is super convenient – simply charge for one hour using a USB cable and it will provide up to four hours of play.

The ball – given its natural shape – can roll 360-degrees but it does so erratically to keep your cat alert. It has three interaction modes (normal, passive and gentle) and when it's turned on, it will automatically move, shake or bounce depending on the mode it's been set to.

The surface of the Cheerbe cat ball is made of synthetic fiber that's furry to the touch, making it comfortable to play with. There are three modes to choose from and we love that one of them offers 10 minutes of active play and then goes in to rest mode for 30 minutes to ensure your cat has a good play-rest balance and doesn't become overstimulated.

Thanks to the built-in intelligent motion sensor, the Cheerble light up ball is able to reverse itself and move away when hitting an obstacle or tight spots, so you don't need to worry about it becoming stuck, and while we don't recommend it for use on carpets, it works beautifully on wooden flooring.

Our tester Georgia says: "It’s been great for Annie because it keeps her busy while I’m working and serves as a great distraction. She’s been running around all over the place, so I’d recommend this Cheerble for kittens and playful cats.

"It’s loud on hard flooring, but if you’re leaving it out while you’re out of the house then that’s not an issue. It's easy to charge – I love that it’s not battery – with a micro USB as everyone has one of those chargers hanging around."

If you're looking for a toy that works well on all surfaces, the SmartyKat Loco Motion Electronic Cat Toy is your best option.

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Best automated cat toy for high-prey drive cats

From the moment we got this toy out of the box, we were very impressed by its build. Although it uses an abundance of plastic, it's sturdy, well-created and has no sharp edges which makes it a toy that is sure to last while also proving to be very safe.

Our admiration for the Cheese Teaser extended to its use. Although the batteries are not included (which seems typical with many cat toys), once we located a trio of AAs and inserted them, it was clear our cats were in for a good time.

To save battery power and, more importantly, to prevent your kitty from becoming overstimulated and over-familiar with the toy to the point of boredom, each session lasts for between just 10 and 15 minutes. If you decide to program the device, then you can have it set off every couple of hours for that length of time, and we would have no problems leaving a cat unsupervised with this one.

PetSafe has really thought this toy through; the rubber feet prevent it from slipping around when a cat is attempting to claw at the mice. And, since the button needs to be firmly held down to turn on and off, your cat is going to struggle to accidentally activate and deactivate the device, putting you in control of when it gets used.

What's more, none of this comes at a particularly high price (under $27), certainly not when you consider how well it's made. As a bonus, you get a two-year manufacturer's warranty and only if we were being particularly picky would we express a need for a plug option and some sort of smartphone integration. If that's important to you, we'd opt for the Enabot ROLA PetPal instead.

Our tester Allie said: "My cats love watching the mice poke in and out of the toy. It's good for cats] who need more mental stimulation - or cats who are always getting into things, as this toy keeps them nicely distracted. We use it to get them out of rooms they shouldn’t be in - they recognize the sound when we turn it on and go right to it."

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Other automated cat toys we tested

Catit PIXI Spinner
The Catit PIXI Spinner spins in circles and drops treats on the floor as a tasty reward. It features an enticing feather for your cat to chase and a light for nighttime play. While Chilli and Nala had fun with this toy at first, they lost interest over time, which is why I downvoted it from the top six.

Petchain Interactive Cat Toy
If your cat loves to chase after mice, then they'll love playing with the Petchain Interactive Cat Toy. I've been testing this for months, and while it does keep my cats entertained for four minutes or so, the movements get a little bit predictable. I'd love this if it was remote controlled so it wouldn't crash into furniture and move in unrealistic patterns. However, even if my cats don't chase it, it keeps them transfixed.

How we tested the best automated cat toys

To find the best automated cat toys, I spent hours researching different products on the market and consulted our pet parent panel to see if they had any recommendations. After reading customer reviews and checking the toys were from a reputable brand, I gave them to our testers to try out with their cats.

To ensure accuracy and consistency, I asked our testers the same set of questions:

• Does the toy move in a way that keeps your cat engaged?
• How does your cat react to the toy’s movement patterns?
• What is the noise level like?
• How well does the toy handle different surfaces?
• What's the battery life like?
• Is the toy durable enough for repeated play?

I was very particular about what made the cut for this guide, and out of all of the toys we tested, only six made it in. I also updated this page to remove outdated products where I believe there's now a better option.

To learn more about our review process, read our dedicated page on how we test.

Our review panel

How to choose the best automated cat toys

When choosing your automated cat toy there are some important things that you need to consider:

1. Personal preferences
First, it is important to remember that different cats like different things. While some might go crazy for toys that make erratic movements, other cats will prefer the mental stimulation of a hide-and-seek toy. Try and identify what games your cat likes to play with you and see if you can find something similar in an automated form.

2. Toys that stimulate natural behaviors
The best automated cat toys tend to be the ones that stimulate natural behaviors, which for cats means hunting! Cats enjoy toys that act like prey – this means sudden or unpredictable movements or toys that have a hide-and-seek feature. The reward in these games is the ability to be able to catch the prey. Toys that feature lasers can lead to frustration as there is nothing for your pet to physically get hold of at the end.

3. Physical ability
Factor your cat’s age and fitness levels into your decision-making process. An elderly, arthritic, or overweight cat may not be able to get much enjoyment out of a very fast-paced toy, leading to frustration and disinterest.

4. Safety
The other thing you need to consider when selecting your automated toy is safety. Choose a toy that comes from a reputable retailer, is robustly made, and features a secure battery compartment. This should have screws to ensure the compartment never comes open by itself, which is vital when this toy is being used by unsupervised cats.

5. Cost and ease of use
Automated cat toys will have different price points depending on their design and complexity. Equally, some will require batteries or charging, which can run out at inopportune moments. These are all things to think about when making your purchase decision.

If you're feeling unsure of which toy to pick, here's what I recommend for each type of cat:

Will an automated cat toy keep my cat entertained while I’m out?

An automated cat toy can be a useful tool for cats that are home alone. It can provide mental stimulation as well as encourage physical activity, which is important to keep your cat happy.

Cats may not play with their toy endlessly (many cats sleep 15 hours or more a day!), but it does allow them to express natural behaviors should they choose to use it. Remember that nothing can replace the social aspect of playing with you, so make sure you give your cat lots of attention when you are home again.

Are automated cat toys good for cats?

It is generally agreed that yes, reputable automatic cat toys are. Whilst they do not replace you and your interaction with your cat (usually their favorite form of cat play and connection) they provide a myriad of mental stimulation, playful fun and opportunities to keep cats satisfied. They're super handy if your cat wants to play all the time!

Both physical and mental activity are required daily to consistently maintain a happy, stress free and healthy cat. As well as that, automatic toys help to maintain movement, healthy joints, ideal weight and, if they are on a weight reduction diet, support weight loss. They also prevent you from stressing and worrying about them being alone as you work, run errands, and generally live life.

You should tailor the type of toy to your cat's personality too. “It is also important to consider which natural behavior it is encouraging and what your cat prefers." explains Dr. Lily Richards. So, if you cat likes stalking and playing with prey then they may prefer a teaser toy, while cats who like to pounce might enjoy a pop-up toy more.

Dr. Richards recommends keeping a variety of toys on hand too, as "offering a range of toys that encourage different play types, stimulating both body and mind, is a good idea.”

We all love playing with our feline friends, but we can’t keep them entertained all the time. As Dr. Lily Richards explains, “Cats are natural hunters, active, and playful animals but can get bored easily.”

Bored cats are more prone to undesirable behaviors, such as furniture scratching, so keeping their minds and bodies active is a necessity and automated cat toys are perfect for this. They’re also a great way to keep your kitty fit and active, contributing towards healthy weight loss for cats, which can be a struggle for house cats especially.

Do cats get bored of automatic cat toys?

Cats can quickly get bored of doing the same thing over and over, just like us, and this includes playing with the same toys. Automated toys can be more stimulating than regular cat toys, but that won’t stop your furry friend from tiring of their high-tech toys after a while.

Overexposure is the main reason that cats get bored of toys, and while an automated toy might keep them engaged for longer, they aren’t immune to this issue. Dr. Richards notes that an “abundance of prey can lead to a lazy cat”, noting that an automatic toy that’s always available, or too many choices of toys can lead to them feeling overwhelmed or even apathetic.

There are some tricks you can use to keep your kitty entertained though. “Toy rotation is a useful tool to ensure that buying new toys to entertain our feline friends doesn’t get out of hand”, explains our expert vet Dr. Lily Richards. “Simply put away some of their toys and bring them back out a couple of months later, it will be like they are brand new all over again.”

Want more recommendations? Read our guides on the best catnip cat toys, best interactive cat toys, and best cat toys for indoor cats.

Edited by Georgia Guerin.

As a pet writer and lifelong cat mom, I've tested more toys for indoor cats than I can count. From the best automated teaser toys your feline will love to chase to the best puzzle feeders that will keep their brain ticking, I’ve narrowed it down to my top six favorites.

While play is important for every cat, it’s especially crucial for indoor cats who don't get as much mental and physical stimulation throughout the day. They need a rotation of the best cat toys and at least an hour of play every day, which can be broken into shorter sessions of 15 to 20 minutes.

Below, you'll find the best toys for indoor cats, all tried and approved by the PetsRadar testing team. We selected the SmartyKat Loco Motion Electronic Cat Toy as our overall pick for its fun design that encourages exercise.

The best toys for indoor cats

Photos from testing

Videos from testing

Other toys for indoor cats we tested

As a team, we’ve tested hundreds of toys, but not all of them made the final cut. Here are a few other options you might want to consider:

Enabot ROLA PetPal

This robot cat toy has lots of exciting features and doubles up as a treat dispenser. After downloading the app, you can control where it goes and watch your cat’s reaction on the built-in camera. It also plays noises, like meowing or barking, and you can talk to your cat using the microphone.

I thought this toy would be a hassle to set up, but it was actually very simple. It's hilarious watching my cats on the camera, and I think I had more fun than they did! It’s great that you can download the videos and watch them back. It engages my cats, but they don’t chase after it, which is why it didn't select it in the top six.

Read my full review of the Enabot ROLA PetPal.

PetSafe SlimCat Meal-Dispensing Cat Toy

The PetSafe SlimCat Meal-Dispensing Cat Toy encourages your indoor cat to stay active and helps with weight management.

Our tester, Laura, recommends it for cats who eat too much or too fast. She loves that it doubles as a regular ball when you close the holes and thinks the concept is a great idea. However, she struggled to figure out how to open it and said it was too big for her kitten.

She also says: "[My kitten] would push the ball just enough to roll out a piece of food, without having to actually play with it. I think this product is better in theory than in practice. But it still might be good for cats who need food as encouragement."

When it came to selecting the best puzzle toy in this guide, the Catstages Kitty Lickin’ Layers Multilayered Cat Fun Feeder Cat Treat Puzzle proved to be a better alternative.

Cheerble M1

The Cheerble M1 was featured in the last edition of this guide but has since been updated to a new and improved model. Our editor, Georgia, recommended it for kittens and playful cats, saying it was a great distraction for her kitten, who tends to climb all over her.

However, she noted that it didn’t work too well on carpeted surfaces – an issue that’s been addressed in the new M3 edition.

How we tested the best toys for indoor cats

To ensure your indoor cat is healthy and happy, they need to have a good selection of toys to play with. As well as improving their physical health by keeping them active, cat play helps with stress, anxiety, and strengthens your relationship.

With so many options on the market, it's challenging to find the best toys for indoor cats. As pet parents ourselves, we know what that's like – and we also know what you're looking for. We gave each of these toys to our team of experts, who tested them on their cats. Here's what they looked out for:

Suitability: Just like humans, every cat is different. That's why we included a variety of toys to suit different personalities. Whether your cat has lots of energy and loves to run about, or needs a little motivation with food – we've rounded up a great selection to choose from.

Cat approval: What's the point in spending money on toys that your cat won't enjoy? We ensured that the toys were engaging, stimulating, and something that our pets actually wanted to play with.

Affordability: High-quality cat toys don't need to cost the earth, and we're pleased to say that all of these are under $35. We also included some budget options in the mix for under $12.

While we recommend all of these cat toys, there's always room for improvement. Here at PetsRadar, we're transparent about the things that could be better and make sure we include these in our testing notes. That way, there are no unwanted surprises for you.

Here's more information on how we test.

Meet our review panel

How to choose the best toys for indoor cats

Cat toys are relatively inexpensive, so the best way to find them is to just try things out and see what works for your cat and their temperament.

Be led by how your cat behaves. If they enjoy running around your home, something like the Cheerble Wicked Ball M3 is best, as it encourages your cat to sprint and pounce.

You should also think about how much you want to be involved in play. Most vets recommend you play with your cat for 15 to 20 minutes, two to three times a day.

If you don’t exercise your cat daily, this can lead to disinterest and obesity in cats, which can have a detrimental effect on your cat’s physical and mental health. A healthy cat is happier and more affectionate.

We suggest playing with cats yourself as much as possible. As tempting as it is to leave toys lying around the home for them to interact with, cats form better bonds with their owners through play.

Plus, they lose interest in items that they see frequently, so tidying them away, rotating toys, and playing with your cat directly will always be more exciting and rewarding for them than just leaving them to their own devices.

Still feeling unsure? Here's a breakdown of the toys we've tested:

How do you keep an indoor cat entertained?

If you have an indoor cat, you might find it difficult to come up with new ways to keep them stimulated. We asked Dr. Rebecca MacMillan, an expert vet, for her top tips:

1. Give them a scratching post
"It’s normal for cats to want to scratch, not only to keep their claws in good shape but also to scent-mark. An indoor cat won’t have access to trees or a garden fence for this purpose, so make sure they have scratch mats or scratch posts to fulfill these natural behaviors," she says.

2. Give them a cat tree
"Cats also enjoy looking down on their territory and keeping half an eye on it whilst relaxing. An indoor cat should have access to a cat tree or some other way of getting up high, so try and incorporate this into your living space where possible," she says.

3. Mix up the toys
Dr. MacMillan says: "A variety of toys will help to keep an indoor cat amused. Try limiting and rotating which toys are out for your cat at any one time, as this will help prevent boredom in cats.

"Puzzle toys or feeders can be a great way of exercising your cat mentally and physically. Instead of putting treats in them (which can add additional calories and lead to weight gain), [...] use some of [your] cat’s daily kibble allowance in there instead. This helps them work for their dinner!"

4. Provide some outdoor space if you can
She says: "If you can, build an enclosed outdoor space for your cat (e.g. a catio), then this will help greatly with their mental wellbeing. We all benefit from some fresh air and being able to watch the world go by, so it is well worth providing for your cat if you can."

How do I tell if my cat is under stimulated?

Here are the signs that your cat is under stimulated, according to Dr. MacMillan:

• Sleeping more than usual
• Pacing
• Excessive meowing
• Overgrooming
• Destruction of furniture and possessions
• Aggression
• Overeating

She says: "The best way to get rid of a cat’s boredom is to simply spend more time with them. This means engaging in more play sessions, spending time talking to them and petting them, as well as being adventurous and trying a few reward-based training sessions."

Found this helpful? Check out our top picks of the best catnip toys and best interactive cat toys. Or, read our expert advice on how to play with a cat (the right way) and whether it's cruel to keep a cat indoors.

Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis de Leaver.

With less than 24 hours to go until this bumper annual sales event officially gets underway, the cat toys Amazon Prime Day deals are beginning to roll in thick and fast with savings of up to 67% on some of the best cat toys around.

Daily play sessions are vital for your feline friends health and wellbeing, so whether it's flapping fish, one of the best laser cat toys or a fun tunnel, keeping that toy box full and varied is the key to ensuring your beloved bundle of fluff stays physically and mentally fit.

While there are plenty of toys available that you and your kitty can enjoy together, you'll find a great selection of interactive and automated options that are ideal for those days when you're out and about a lot and you don't want your feline friend to get bored.

To help you find the best plaything for you pal, we've rounded up the latest and greatest cat toy deals that are dropping as we get ever closer to the Amazon Prime Day extravaganza. Be sure to bookmark this page and check back regularly to grab the biggest and best deals as they roll out.  

• Amazon Prime Day pet deals: Best deals on pet supplies for cats and dogs
• See all the best Prime Day deals on pet supplies at Amazon
• Nine great Amazon Prime Day dog deals

PetsRadar's pick of the best cat toys Amazon has to offer

When is Amazon Prime Day 2022?

Sale time has come early this year, with Amazon's two-day price plummeting extraveganza taking place on Tuesday the 12th and Wednesday the 13th of July. Woohoo!

With new deals being added every single hour until the Prime Day sale closes, we'll be keeping our pages updated with the latest and best buys across everything from pet supplies to accessories. 

How Amazon Prime Day works

Basically, the Amazon Prime Day sale sees prices slashed across every department, with savings on pet products being as high as 80%. It's the perfect time to bag a bargain on items that might otherwise blow your budget.

Sound too good to be true? We promise it's not, but there's one small catch - you need to be an Amazon Prime member to claim the discounts. You can do that easily by visiting the Prime free trial page and there's zero obligation to continue after the sale ends - try it for 30 days for free and if you're not happy, simply cancel it.

It's worth noting that it's not just the annual sale you'll benefit from as a Prime member. As well as unlimited free delivery on almost any Amazon purchase, you also get access to Prime Video, Amazon Music, Prime Reading and more.

How to get the best Amazon Prime Day pet deals

Keep this page open or bookmark it so you can check it regularly. We'll be updating it continuously throughout the two-day sale to make sure you always have access to the biggest and best deals.

And why not create an Amazon wishlist? Save your most wanted/needed items to your Amazon account in a new wishlist called “Amazon Prime Day Deals 2021” so that you can monitor any price changes to your dream items and quickly move them to your basket for an easy check out when you've finished shopping. 

Make sure you get in quick when you spot something you like as sought-after items with big reductions will sell out quickly. 

Want more great deals? Check out our guide to the best Amazon Prime Day pet deals and these great Amazon Prime Day dog deals.

If you’re a pet parent looking for a fun craft to try, making DIY kitten toys could be a great new hobby. Not only will your feline friend love you for it, but you’ll also have fun in the process of creating them.

Young cats need a rotation of the best kitten toys to ensure they’re getting enough mental and physical stimulation, but this can get expensive if they’re constantly getting bored or losing them. That’s why making your own toys can be an excellent (and rewarding) alternative.

Below, we’ve shared five different toys you can make at home, including catnip macarons, a puzzle toy, a whack-a-mole box, and much more. These crafts are suitable for all skill levels, and some of them take only five minutes to make. Happy crafting!

DIY kitten toy ideas

1. DIY macaron cat toys

These fun toys look like delicious macarons and you can make them in wonderfully bright colours too. They can contain a filling that will drive your cat wild. Just try and refrain from munching into them yourself!

What you’ll need:

• Pastel felt
• Contrasting felt
• Scissors
• Thread
• Hand stitching needle
• Pillow stuffing
• Catnip
• Pencil/pen

Instructions:

1. Use an object to outline four equal-sized circles on a piece of pastel-colored felt, about 3 inches wide. For example, I used the bottom of a wine bottle. Then cut each one out so that you do not see any pen marks.
2. Cut one circle out of a contrasting piece of felt that is about ½-inch or so larger. Note, that it does not need to be perfect because it will be trimmed later.
3. Layer two pieces of pastel felt and thread a needle with a long piece of thread (doesn't necessarily need to be matching thread) and knot the end multiple times.
4. Poke through the top layer only, about 3⁄4-inch from the edge. Pull the thread through so that the knot catches in between the two layers.
5. Make small stitches around the edges of the felt, keeping a 3⁄4-inch distance from the edge and securing the two layers together. Occasionally, pull tightly on the thread to gather it and keep it appearing ruffled as you go. Note, you do not need to pull hard and you do not want to pull hard enough to risk breaking the thread.
6. Keep stitching until you have about one inch left. You’ll notice that pulling the thread may make the piece appear misshapen, but ignore this and keep stitching so that the edges of the circles are together. When you have one inch left to stitch, add about one tablespoon of catnip (if desired), followed by stuffing. Then keep stitching and add more stuffing as needed to fill completely.
7. Stitch until you reach the end, and lastly poke through only one layer and then thread the needle through an existing stitch, loop the thread and pull through to create a knot. Repeat at least twice to secure. You should now have a plush macaron shell. Repeat with the remaining two pieces of pastel felt so you have equal-sized plush shells.
8. Sandwich the piece of contrasting felt between the two shells. Thread the needle with a long piece of thread and double it up to make it stronger. Knot the two ends together.
9. Poke through only the top shell so that the knot is hidden on the underside. Stitch all layers together the same way you stitched the shells, pulling them all together tightly. If possible, try to retrace the stitches you made on the shells originally (as this will look best but is more time-consuming).
10. Stitch until you reach the end and pull all layers together tightly before pressing the needle through only one layer and knotting the thread with a double or triple knot the same way you did before.
11. Lastly, trim the excess 'filling' so that it fits close to the shells, taking precautions so that you don’t trim the ruffles. Then your macaron is all done!

2. Knotty spider

Credit: YouTube: Purina Friskies

Made from felt and a plastic ring from a milk container, this cheap and cheerful lightweight toy is ideal for swatting, biting, and pouncing. It will keep your little bundle of fluff happily engrossed for hours.

What you’ll need:

• Two sheets of felt
• A large plastic ring from a milk container
• Scissors

Instructions:

1. Cut the felt into slim strips maybe 2cm thick.

2. Wrap the felt around the ring and create a knot.

3. Keep tying them until you use all of the felt

3. Kitten puzzle toy

Credit: YouTube: Cat Lessons

It’s never too early to provide your kitten with toys that will stimulate both their bodies and their minds, and this puzzle toy is sure to give their brain a workout. We recommend filling the cavities with a few of the best kitten treats to make this toy even more exciting for your feline fur baby.

What you’ll need:

• A box with a paper injection mold
• A pencil
• Box cutter

Instructions:

1. Remove the paper injection mold.

2. Draw holes with a pencil on the underside of the mold.

3. Cut the holes using the box cutter and smooth the edges.

4. Disassemble the box and draw a frame on the top.

5 Cut the frame and assemble the box.

6. Insert some toys, place the mold back in the box upside down and allow your cat to try and grab the toys from the holes.

4. Feather cork cat toys

Feathers tap into a cat’s natural predator instinct – they associate feathers with birds and small animals. While that may sound a little gruesome, adding feathers to play at least focuses their attention on a toy.

What you’ll need:

• Corks
• Feathers
• Screwdriver
• Hot Glue

Instructions:

1. Drill a hole into your cork using a screwdriver. Be sure it is deep enough to fit the stems of the feathers.
2. Using some hot glue, secure the feathers into the cork.
3. And voila! You have a feather cork cat toy for your playful feline friend.

5. DIY whack-a-mole cardboard cat toy

Credit: YouTube: The Q

Guaranteed to provide you and your feline friend with hours of fun and laughter, this entertaining toy will help to train your kitten’s reaction times and concentration, making it both enjoyable and educational.

What you’ll need:

• Cardboard
• Ruler
• Pencil
• Box cutter
• Wire
• Wire cutter
• Tube
• Some toys

Instructions:

This one is quite a complicated build and it’s far easier to watch the video than to follow a set of written instructions.

How do you mentally stimulate a kitten?

There are so many ways to mentally stimulate a kitten, and the good news is that none of them are too taxing! After all most kittens are highly inquisitive, eager to learn, and want to explore how the world works, so they don’t take much encouragement.

1. Play
Dr. MacMillan says: "The most obvious way to stimulate a kitten is through play. Play is how kittens learn, socialize, and practice natural behaviors like running and pouncing. The act of stalking and anticipating which way a toy is going to move next, really gets their brains whirring.

"Try a mixture of toys such as fishing rods, balls, and kicker toys to keep them interested. They will probably enjoy playing with you the most, but many kittens will also go for interactive or self-powered toys, especially while you are out."

2. Climbing spaces
"Providing your kitten with plenty of places to climb (like the best cat trees) and hide will also keep them mentally stimulated as well as physically active."

3. Puzzle feeders
"Using puzzle feeders [like this one on Amazon] or treat dispensers is a great way to motivate some kittens. Encouraging them to work their brains for a tasty reward will keep boredom at bay."

4. Teaching tricks
"Teaching a cat to do tricks is possible with patience and positive reinforcement. Just keep training sessions short to make sure your kitten stays engaged."

5. Quality time
"Spending time simply stroking your kitten will also be good for their mental well-being too."

6. Cardboard boxes
"If all else fails, give them a cardboard box! Most kittens, and even adult cats, love a cardboard box!"

What toys do kittens enjoy the most?

We asked Dr. MacMillan what the best type of kitten toy is – here's what she said:

"It's best to provide your kitten with a variety of toys while you work out what their favorites are, as each cat is different. There is not one perfect toy for all kittens. Plenty love a feather on a stick to grab or a crinkle ball to bat around, whereas others go mad for a catnip-filled soft toy.

"To stop them becoming bored, try using a toy rotation system rather than having them all out at once. By keeping some of their toys out, then after a few days, swapping them over for others, you will help to keep things fresh and interesting for your kitten.

"As a reminder, if you decide to use a laser pointer toy with your kitten, make sure you give them something to catch as a reward at the end. If they have no physical ‘kill’ at the end of their game, it can lead to feelings of frustration and anxiety."

Enjoyed exploring these DIY kitten toys? You can also try your hand making one of these DIY cat hammocks for felines who love to lounge up high or a DIY cat window boxes you can try at home. Or, once you've made these creations, learn how to play with kitten

The best catnip toys make playtime even more exciting for your feline and encourage them to stay active. While my cats love the best cat toys, there's something special (and hilarious) about their reaction to catnip, and I love seeing how happy it makes them.

However, there is one downside: my cats always seem to lose interest after a week or so, leaving me frustrated and wanting a refund. I was on the verge of giving up on catnip toys altogether until certified cat behaviorist Joey Lasvardi offered a helpful solution...

He says: 'Because the active chemicals in catnip naturally break down over time, the catnip in any toy won't last forever. A refillable toy is a great solution to this because you can just top up the catnip when it seems to lose its potency.'

After taking his advice, I searched high and low for the best refillable catnip toys and put them to the test on my three cats, Chilli, Nala, and Tofu, and found that the Catit Groovy Fish reigned supreme. The PetsRadar testing team also helped me on my quest – here are our top six picks:

The best catnip toys

Photos from testing

Videos from testing

Other catnip toys to consider

Chilli and Nala loved playing with Multipet's Lamb Chop Cat Wand and had a blast chasing it around the house. The wand is filled with little beads, which makes an attention-grabbing noise your cat won't be able to resist. The string is the perfect length, and the fluffy, catnip-filled lamb bounces playfully on the other end.

However, when Chilli was playing with it, he started sneezing, and I eventually realized that it was because the fur comes off when it's bitten. It's a real shame because this would have been the number one catnip toy, but it didn't pass our safety check.

My cats also loved Multipet's Mini Lambchop Toy which is pre-filled with catnip. However, since it's not refillable and the fluff came off easily again, I couldn't put it in the top six.

My cats also enjoyed playing with the Planet Pleasures Spiral Cylinder, which is durable, high-quality, and fun for chasing. However, since it's not refillable, it isn't one of the best catnip toys.

How we tested the best catnip toys

After selecting the best catnip toys on the market, we put them to the test with our team of kitties and critiqued them based on the following criteria:

Cat approval: We checked whether our cats had fun playing with the toys and how they reacted to the catnip. We're not interested in throwaway toys that our cats get bored of after one play, so we've been testing these toys for months to ensure they're long-lasting.

Durability and safety: We assessed whether the toys were safe and durable, looking for issues like loose threads and poor-quality fabric. Your cat's safety is our top priority, so if we felt a toy had any hazards, we removed it from the list.

Refillable: All of the toys in this guide are refillable with catnip, as recommended by cat behaviorist Joey Lasvardi. We explained how easy they were to top up and whether they came with catnip included.

Value for money: We included toys at various price points and evaluated whether they were worth the money based on the quality and how much our cats enjoyed them. No one wants to break the bank over a cat toy, so we're happy to say that everything in this guide costs under $20.

If you want to learn more, read our dedicated page on how we test.

Meet our review panel

How to choose the best catnip toys

These are some of the catnip toys we think are best overall, but you know what your cat enjoys and how it plays. When trying to decide which product to buy, the most important factors are safety, size, and style of play.

Use your knowledge of your cat’s behavior to inform your choice. If you know your cat chews toys, choose one with a simple shape and no small attachments that could come off in their mouth. If your cat rarely picks up a toy to play with on their own, go for one of the best interactive cat toys you can enjoy together.

Once your new catnip toy has arrived, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. First, check the packaging for washing instructions – toys with catnip in their filling are often unsuitable for machine washing and should be washed with a damp cloth to keep them potent and hygienic.

Second, be aware that cats will develop a tolerance to catnip if they’re regularly exposed to it for six months or so. If you can throw the toy away from your cat, putting it away when playtime is over will help them enjoy the effects for much longer.

Dr. Godfrey says: "You can choose a toy already containing catnip, or add your own catnip to a toy. However, it’s important to know for sure that it’s catnip you’re adding – never give your cat an unidentified substance. The same rules apply to cat toy safety, whether or not the toy contains catnip.

"There should be no small parts or sharp edges and the toy should be robust and not easily breakable. Avoid materials like wood that could splinter and fabric which could unravel and cause health problems if swallowed."

Still feeling undecided? Here's what I recommend for each type of cat:

Are catnip toys good for cats?

Is catnip bad for cats? No, catnip toys are safe for your cat to play with and can help encourage play, burn energy, and fight boredom, according to Dr. Godfrey.

She says: "Where a soft mouse toy might fail to keep your cat’s attention, a soft toy stuffed with catnip should have them running around, pouncing, kangaroo kicking, and playing in no time.

"While it might seem like a ‘high’ similar to when humans take recreational drugs, catnip is not addictive or dangerous and the behavior changes caused by catnip are short-lived and temporary."

Can I give my cat a catnip toy every day?

Catnip has unusual effects on our feline friends, which might leave you wondering if it's safe to give them every day. However, Dr. Godfrey assures that it's perfectly safe and harmless to do so.

She adds: "You might find that the more they are exposed the less they react. Therefore, giving them a catnip toy a couple of times a week or less might give a better result. You might also notice that your cat becomes resistant to the effects of catnip after 10 minutes or so, but this resistance is temporary."

Why do cats love catnip?

What does catnip do to cats? And why do they love it so much? We asked Dr. Godfrey to find out!

Dr. Godfrey says: "Nepeta cataria is the scientific name for the plant commonly known as catnip. Catnip contains the active ingredient nepetalactone, which is detected by the receptors of the olfactory bulb (which is responsible for a cat’s sense of smell).

"It’s this active ingredient that, when smelled, causes the behavior changes associated with catnip exposure, including rubbing, rolling, grooming, playing, vocalizing, and generally being more active."

If you're questioning, 'Does catnip get cats high?', 'Can kittens have catnip?', or 'Can cats eat catnip?', these expert guides have the answer. Or, if your cat is one of the few that don't react to catnip, you'll want to read about silver vine and valerian for cats as alternatives.

Edited by Georgia Guerin and Alexis de Leaver.

The best automatic laser cat toys are very sought after, and for good reason. Over time, they have proved to be the perfect tool for keeping your car engaged and free from boredom, offering hours of amusement for those times when you can't be with them.

Just like us humans, cats can suffer from anxiety and depression, which can be caused by them not getting enough physical and mental stimulation. Cats who spend the majority of their time indoors are at particularly high risk of this.

You will likely find automatic laser cat toys in the best toys for indoor cats. This is because unlike their active outdoor peers, these cats don't have as many opportunities to tap into their natural instincts to run, jump, chase, and pounce. A good automatic laser cat toy solves that problem by offering them the chance to do all of the things they love.

In order to help you select the best automatic laser cat toy for your cat, we have collected together seven of our favorite devices. Collectively, these encompass a range of options to suit every age, stage, and budget.

The best toys for indoor cats 2026

How to choose the best automatic laser cat toy

Firstly, a word about lasers: a lot of cat laser toys come with warnings. It’s important to read the instructions carefully because if you or kitty look directly at the source of the laser, you could sustain irreparable eye damage.

That said, laser toys by reputable brands are designed not to cause damage – which is why you should ensure you get your cat’s laser toy from somewhere you trust.

A big reason for getting an automatic laser toy over a manual one is that you can get on with your day while your pet is entertained. However, it’s worth thinking about where you are and what you’ll be doing, because you should be supervising any play involving lasers and kittens – and cats in general if you don’t want all your stuff chewed and broken.

Then there’s the noise issue: if you’re planning on getting some work or reading done while the toy is on, you’ll want to choose something a bit quieter. Some of the motorized toys can be fairly loud and repetitive, which can drive some people crazy.

You’ll also want to think about the type of flooring you have in your home: some automatic laser chasers work better on hardwood than carpet, especially thick carpets or rugs. If you do, you’ll be better off choosing something that sits on a higher-up surface such as a table, and projects the laser down onto the floor, than something with wheels.

Wondering, 'Why do cats chase lasers? and 'Are laser pointer bad for cats?'' This feature has the answer. Or, discover the best cat toys.

Making DIY cat toys can be a rewarding and fun experience for the whole family – and it can save you a lot of money in the long run. If you’re a feline parent, you’ll know how quickly cats get bored of their toys, so making your own is a good way to avoid splashing out on hundreds of options.

Cats need an hour of play every day, which can be broken up into smaller sessions of 15 to 20 minutes. So, in order to ensure your kitty stays happy and healthy, you’ll need plenty of the best cat toys to keep them occupied – whether they’re handmade or store-bought.

Below, we’ve shared four DIY cat toy ideas that are perfect for mental and physical stimulation, including a toy tower for climbing and a mouse for chasing. Vet Dr. Rebecca MacMillan has also explained her top tips for making sure they’re safe to play with. Have fun!

DIY cat toys

1. Felt emoji cat toys

These emoji felt cat toys are just so darn cute! And your kitty will love them, not just because they're super soft, but they're also filled with catnip, so playtime is sure to be extra fun with these toys in the house.

What you'll need:

• Free printable patterns Smiley Emoji and/or Heart Emojis
• Yellow, black, white, pink and red felt
• Matching embroidery floss
• Needle and scissors
• Catnip
• Freezer paper and hot iron (optional)

Instructions:

1. Print your free patterns on office paper or freezer paper.
2. Cut the copy paper patterns out and trace or apply the freezer paper patterns with a hot iron.
3. Stitch the pieces onto the felt large, yellow felt circles with matching floss. Use your patterns to help guide you with placement of each piece. You can always use a smidge of glue if you’re having a difficult time keep your felt pieces in place while you stitch. Just add a dab of glue to the center and it will stay perfectly in place!
4. When a face is complete, using yellow embroidery floss, stitch the top circle to another yellow felt circle using the blanket stitch. Leave a gap of about 1-1.5 inches open.
5. Using a piece of paper and tape or staples, create a funnel and transfer catnip into the inside of your emoji through the gap you left open.
6. These are fairly large cat toys so each will take about 0.25 ounce to get a nice, even fill.
7. Finish the blanket stitch to close up your gap and these guys are done!

2. DIY soda box cat toy

This is such a great cheap and cheerful fun that will cost you peanuts to make but will provide your cat with hours of entertainment.

What you'll need:

• 12-pack cardboard soda carton
• Scissors
• X-acto knife
• Glue (or hot glue gun)
• Bamboo skewers
• Crafting feathers
• Decorative or duct tape
• 2 pipe cleaners
• Paper towel tube

Instructions:

1. Remove soda cans from the shorter side panel. Once empty, re-glue the panel back together.
2. Using an X-acto knife or scissors, cut out one of the longer side panels.
3. Make a support post by cutting a cardboard paper towel tube to the height of the box. Apply glue to both ends and place in the center of the box.
4. Using your X-acto knife, cut out circles from the top of the box, avoiding the support post.
5. Time to make your toys! Tape both ends of the bamboo skewer to make sure there are no sharp ends.
6. Take both of your pipe cleaners and fold them in half. Bend to create about an inch-long tip that points upward, perpendicular to the skewer.
7. Wrap the pipe cleaners around the skewer, and secure the loose ends with tape.
8. Glue features to the part of the pipe cleaners that sticks up (so that your feathers end up sitting perpendicular to the skewer).
9. Play! Maneuver the skewer up through the holes of the box to entice kitty!

3. Easy toy mouse 

There are lots of patterns available for toy mice, but they can often be a bit daunting if you don’t have much experience with sewing. If you’re looking for a simple mouse that you can put together in well under an hour, this is the one for you.

You will need:

• Piece of fabric at least the size of your hand – felt, fleece and cotton (including old t-shirts and shirts) all work well
• Scissors
• Sewing needle
• Thread – black, pink and the color of your fabric
• Stuffing – soft toy filling, cotton wool, fabric scraps

Instructions:

1. Cut out a squat teardrop shape from your fabric – the size is up to you, just make sure it’s big enough that the finished mouse won’t be a choking hazard.
2. Cut out a much smaller teardrop for the first ear, then use it as a template to cut out a second ear. Snip the pointy end off of both.
3. Using black thread, sew a few small stitches on each side of the large teardrop to create a pair of eyes.
4. Fold the large teardrop in half and sew along the edge from the nose, leaving a gap at the back for stuffing. You have two options – either fold the fabric so the eyes are on the inside, then sew along the edge and turn the mouse inside out (giving you a neater finish as the stitches will end up on the inside); or just fold the teardrop with the eyes on the outside and sew it up.
5. Push your chosen stuffing through the gap at the back, packing it in until the mouse is a good shape.
6. Position your pink ribbon or yarn so that at least half an inch is tucked into the body of the mouse. Sew up the gap at the back, making sure your needle goes through the tail several times before tying off the thread. Give the tail a tug to make sure it’s securely attached.
7. Using pink thread, sew a few stitches across the point of the body to create the mouse’s nose.
8. Fold the blunt end of one of the small teardrops so that the corners meet, then sew onto the body. Repeat on the other side with the second ear. Tug both ears and add extra stitches if needed.

4. Toy tower

Up for a bigger challenge? This tower is simpler than it looks, and can be customized to suit your cat’s favorite ways of playing and the materials you have to hand

You will need:

• Wood – pieces for the uprights, and pieces for the base and platforms
• Saw nails or screws
• Hammer and/or drill
• Soft fabric – carpet, felt, or fleece
• Staples and staple gun
• Carpet offcut or sisal
• Cord wooden beads
• Pet brush

Instructions:

1. Decide how many levels you want, how tall you’d like the tower to be and how large you want each of the platforms. As an example,  the dimensions of our tower are below
2. Choose or cut a piece of wood for the base – it should be large and heavy enough to keep the tower stable.
3. Cut two identical pieces to form the support for the highest platform, and screw or nail them to the base, towards the back but not right on the edge. Attach the top platform.
4. Cut a support for the middle platform and attach to the base. Nail a wooden block to the side of the taller support (level with the top of the new piece) then attach the middle platform.
5. Cut a final piece to support the lowest level. Nail wooden blocks to the three other supports, and attach the platform.
6. Cover each platform with soft fabric, wrap it over the edges, and staple it to the underside.
7. Add toys – we’ve attached a brush for self-grooming, carpet for scratching, and a pom-pom and string of beads for batting.
8. Check all the staples and nails/screws are secure and flush with the wood before letting your cat climb its new tower.

Work around your materials with this one – there are endless ways you can set out a cat tower. You can use thick cardboard tubes instead of wood for the upright pieces, or make platforms from old drawers. Why not add a box, a hammock, or a ladder?

Do vets recommend DIY cat toys?

Dr. MacMillan says: "Vets definitely do recommend DIY cats, as long as a few basic precautions are taken. You must only ever use materials that are non-toxic to cats. Cardboard is a great choice, with tubes, boxes and egg cartons all making fun toys when used in the right way."

Here's what you need to keep in mind:

• Regularly check the toys for signs of wear and tear
• Remove or repair broken items
• Avoid dangerous materials, like long pieces of string that could become detached and accidentally digested
• Supervise your cat when they're using them

Fun for you and your cat

There are endless ways to keep your cat entertained without buying anything new. Get creative and work with what you have – just remember to check that all the parts of your homemade toys are attached securely, and supervise your cat while it plays.

If you’re keen to find more ways to inject plenty of physical and mental stimulation into your cat’s day, here are nine reasons to use a cat puzzle feeder toy. Or if you've got a younger feline, learn how to make DIY kitten toys. Alternatively, check out our guide to the best toys for indoor cats.

Edited by Georgia Guerin.

If you’re a pet parent, you’ve probably wondered, “Why does my cat bring me toys and other gifts?” at least once. Whether it’s their favorite plushie or a dead animal from the garden, some of these presents aren’t always so welcome – even if your feline friend means well!

So, what’s the reason behind this behavior? Well, if they’re bringing you one of their favorite cat toys, it might indicate that they want to play – especially if they enjoy a game of fetch. However, there could be other factors at hand, like wanting to show off their prize or as a sign of love and trust.

Below, Dr Rebecca MacMillan explains all the reasons your cat brings you toys and gifts, plus how to stop them from bringing you dead animals. She’s a vet with more than a decade and a half of experience working with cats and has all the answers you’re looking for.

Why does my cat bring me toys and other gifts?

1. They want to play

It’s the simplest explanation here, but if you’ve been away from the house for most of the day then your cat will likely be starved of attention, and want an immediate top-up. This is usually the case if they’ve bought you a stuffed toy – or even another object that could be used as a toy – and dropped it at your feet.

If you find your kitty is particularly demanding around this, engaging them in 10-15 minutes of cat play is likely to make a huge difference to their behavior. But don't worry if you don't have time to meet their need in that moment because the best automated cat toys can help keep them occupied until you're free to play.

Dr. MacMillan says: "Many cats will bring their owners a toy for one simple reason, they want to play! By bringing you a toy they are indicating that they want to engage with you. Once they know that bringing you a toy gets a positive response they will keep doing it. Each time you respond and start a game this reinforces the behavior.

"If your cat is under stimulated then they may be looking for attention. One way of doing that is by bringing you a toy. If you are finding this a real issue, then look at ways you can improve their environment to keep them busy. You could also try a few interactive cat toys to keep them happy while you’re busy."

2. They see the toy as a trophy

Cats will instinctively hunt, stalk, and catch their prey, because those are the instincts that are embedded into their DNA.

This is why outdoor cats have been known to bring in the grisly relics of their ‘hunt’ – they see what they have caught as a trophy, and are presenting it to you as such, either as a reward for you, or as their means of contribution to the household! In the absence of live prey, indoor cats will use cat toys as a substitute, hence why they are bringing them to you.

In the absence of toys, they may even bring you items of clothing or other objects, possibly as a way of teaching you how to hunt. It may be that you find this behavior endearing and don’t want to discourage it, but if you do, we recommend checking out some of our buying guides to provide them with some alternative means of amusement!

Dr. MacMillan says: "Some cats will present you with a toy because they are showing off as if they were presenting you with a hunting trophy. It’s a way of saying ‘Look what I’ve caught!’. If you react with smiles, praise, and a fuss, this will reinforce the behavior.

"Once they know that boasting gets them a positive reaction they will continue to do it, which is kind of cute actually. It shows they take pride in their abilities and want to share that with you.

"Hunting and bringing prey home is a natural instinct for many cats. In this instance, the prey is a toy, and you are their family. For some cats, their maternal instinct takes over. Not only do they want to provide you with their kill, but they might try to teach you to hunt too!"

3. As a sign of love or trust

If your cat purrs or bumps their head against you before or after dropping the toy off near you, then it’s probably safe to say that they’re doing this as a sign of affection.

As previously mentioned, cats are very territorial, and the fact that they are willing to share their hunting spoils with you is very much intended as a compliment, showing their trust and respect for you.

If you pet them afterwards, it will show them that you reciprocate and appreciate their actions. Similarly, it may even be the case that they trust you enough to look after it, so are leaving it with you for safekeeping.

Some even theorize that cats see humans as poor hunters, unable to care for themselves, and are bringing you this gift as a way to look after you. Either way, if they are bringing things to you, then it’s almost certainly a positive sign for your relationship.

Dr. MacMillan says: "A cat that brings you a toy is showing clear signs of affection. This is one of the subtle ways that our pets tell us they love us.

"Cats may favor one owner in the house, or they may engage with everyone, it depends on their personality. But either way you should feel pleased when your cat brings you a toy, it shows that they trust you."

4. To get you to fix it

If your cat has a favorite toy that's looking a little worse for wear and they're regularly bringing it to you, it's likely that they're trying to point out that their much-loved stuffed mouse is in need of a little TLC.

This is particularly likely if they have a catnip-filled toy that they can't get enough of that's running low on the good stuff. Make sure you repair any damaged toys or replace when they're past the point of fixing, and keep catnip toys well filled up so that they don't lose any of their enticing aroma.

Dr. MacMillan says: "A bonded cat will look to you to solve problems. If their toy is broken or they can’t figure out how to work it, then they might bring it to you for help.

"If a well-used toy smells different or has some loose threads, then they might be feeling a bit confused. Some cats also like you to show them how to play with a new toy, so reward them with a game."

What should I do if my cat brings me dead animals or other inappropriate gifts?

Whether it's a piece of clothing they've stolen off the neighbors washing line or a dead mouse that shows off their hunting prowess, there are some gifts from your cat that you might not be quite so overjoyed to receive.

It's important to remember that your cat is simply being a cat and exercising their natural hunting instincts, so it's important not to scold your feline friend for engaging in normal cat behaviors.

Instead, consider restricting your cat's access to the great outdoors if they're repeat offenders when it comes to bringing in dead wildlife. If you'd rather not do that, try fitting their collar with a bell which will alert birds, mice, and other animals to their presence.

Be sure to play with your cat on a daily basis as this will help prevent boredom and may decrease their desire to go outside and hunt, and feed them the best cat food in wet or dry form to provide them with nutrition they need to stay happy and healthy.

We asked Dr. MacMillan for her top tips:

1. Stay calm
"If your cat brings you a dead animal, it’s important to stay calm. If you react, whether that’s positively or negatively, your cat will be receiving attention for their behavior. Some cats see any attention as a good thing, especially if they are bored! This could accidentally reinforce it and encourage them to repeat it again in the future."

2. Increase play time
"Start by increasing the amount of play time at home, scheduling in regular and predictable sessions. Provide a variety of toys on a rotation system to keep their interest. You can use catnip occasionally to make things extra exciting! Puzzle feeders and battery powered toys might also help to keep them busy when you are out."

3. Neuter your cat
"Neutering your pet can reduce their tendencies to roam which might in turn reduce their desire to hunt. This is also a responsible thing to do as it will stop unwanted pregnancies and reduce inter-cat fighting."

4. Use a collar with a bell
"When I speak to owners in consultations, they have variable success with putting a collar and bell on their cat [like this one on Amazon]. Cat collars must have a safety release clip in case the cat gets caught on a branch or similar while out exploring.

"The idea is that the bird or rodent hears the bell tinkling and runs off before your cat can catch them. However, this isn’t fail safe and many owners get frustrated when their cat loses yet another collar! It might be worth a try though."

5. Make changes in your garden
"Try making a few wildlife friendly changes in your garden, like putting bird feeding stations well out of reach of your cat and any nearby walls or fences. You should also provide birds with enough shrubs and trees to hide in."

She adds: "Unfortunately, hunting is natural cat behavior, and the urge is stronger in some cats than others. But to discourage your cat from bringing home more kills, there are a few things you can try."

Rest assured that your kitty frequently bringing you toys and other gifts is nothing to worry about - if anything, it's a positive thing. Your feline friend is simply choosing to include you in behaviors that would come naturally to them in the wild and that they'd indulge in with other members of their clowder, a huge honor indeed!

A vet answers whether you should intervene if your cat catches a mouse in this feature. Or, learn why cats play at night and why cats sit on their toys

Edited by Georgia Guerin.

The ORSDA Electronic Cat Toy is designed to mentally and physically stimulate moggies when they're only able to have fun alone. Rather than offer a single method of play, this great-looking device adds variety, by not only allowing cats to try and catch a ball that's spinning around a circular track but by also sending a colorful feather out of its side at random moments. When we were putting the best cat toys to the test, it definitely captured our imagination.

The idea is that your cat has to be on constant alert, with the electronic toy tapping into a feline's innate desire to hunt, stalk and pounce. Indeed, cats will be seeking to ambush the feathers one minute and batting at the balls the next. And because there are five different speed modes, it can be adapted to suit any cat while lessening the chance of them becoming bored. 

• Best fish cat toys: Keep your feline friend happy, fit and amused
• Best catnip toys: Amuse your cat with these toys

ORSDA Electronic Cat Toy : Features

Although the premise behind this toy is simple enough, the manufacturer has to be commended for going the extra mile – a hallmark of many of the best interactive cat toys. The company could have made do with one ball whizzing around the track but here you have a choice of two, one of which comes with a built-in bell. This has a couple of benefits: the bell can attract the attention of cats who are not responding to the soundless ball while the latter can give your ears a rest if your cat is playing nearby! Yet that is not all.

The toy also comes with six different feathers. Three of them are multicolored, one is a solid purple, another has a fluffy tail and one resembles a pheasant feather. This is good news for fickle felines since it goes some way to ensuring they won't become too familiar with one type and find their mind wandering away. It's also great to know that replacements can be bought if your cat manages to catch and excessively chew on a feather. It should ensure the toy remains in use for longer.

As we mentioned earlier, there are five speed modes. For kittens, the fastest speed is said to be most suitable while older cats tend to favor the medium settings. In line with lots of the best automated cat toys, however, you can play around, stepping things up and down to see how well a cat takes to the device. The toy can also be slipped into a smart mode so that it will power down after 10 minutes. Four hours later, it will switch on again and hopefully get kitty running over.

Helping to attract a cat's attention is a set of LED lights on top (but imagine if it also fired off a beam of light like with the best laser toys for cats – that would certainly have been cool!). The noise of the unit also encourages cats to investigate and these two things mean you don't necessarily have to do anything to introduce your cat to the toy.

What's more, it's very safe too. The device is made from ABS plastic and it's curved so there are no jutting edges to dig into a cat's paw. As a relatively heavy toy, a cat is also unlikely to knock it across the room. For those worried about entertaining a cat when they're away, this toy could well be a great solution for you.

ORSDA Electronic Cat Toy: User reviews

Cats are curious little things and users find their furbabies tend to immediately wander over to this toy once it starts to move. “From the moment I set it up and pushed the button, this had my cat's curiosity,” affirmed one customer reviewer. “She recognizes the sound of it turning on from another nearby room and races to it.”

Users suggest the device is particularly successful in tapping into a cat's prey drive. “My cat has a large instinct to hunt and this, by far, has been her favorite toy,” a user says. Of course, this means it could encourage some rough play but some are at least thankful that the feathers are sturdily held in place given how strongly cats can get a hold of them. “They're actually threaded on to the actuator arm,” a user explained.

Sometimes, however, the feather gets stuck. “I was able to stick a pen inside one of the holes and push the mechanical arm to get it unstuck but I let it run for about five minutes and lo and behold, it was jammed up again,” a user said. This is likely to be frustrating for both cat owner and cat, but a user reporting this problem did say, “once it started operating properly, my cat instantly became obsessed with it.” 

And that’s the thing. In many cases, it would seem people are more than willing to put up with such niggles. So while, “the mechanical component that makes the feather go in and out is also LOUD”, said one, other suggest the noise helps to attract a cat's attention. Some do wish the manufacturer hadn't put the on/off button on top, though. “Where do cats like to perch on things?,” asked a user. “On top.” D’oh!

Should you buy the ORSDA Electronic Cat Toy ?

There is no getting around the fact that this product has its flaws: the sound, the position of the on/off button and the fact the feathers can get stuck being the prime ones. Yet the good stuff really does outweigh the bad and many users have put most problems to one side because of the most important thing – many cats that get introduced to this toy appear to become totally infatuated with it, to the point where they'll pester their owner to switch it on. To that end, it is one that all cat owners should consider, particularly if you are out and about for much of the day and want to keep your pet stimulated.

Cyber Monday cat toy deals are here and they’ll help cat owners to save huge amounts on keeping their kitty entertained, active and stimulated.

Prices have been slashed on all manner of cat playthings from automatic laser toys, to teaser wands to puzzle feeders and there’s likely to be even more deals released throughout the big day and into next week. That said, we recommend pouncing as quickly as your cat when you see a deal that catches your eye, as stock this year is at lower levels than previous sales periods. We’d also recommend ordering early to ensure your gifts arrive in time for Christmas.

This article contains a range of the best Cyber Monday cat toy deals we could find from big name retailers such as Chewy, Amazon, Walmart and Petco and we'll be updating this guide frequently over the next few days, so make sure to bookmark this page so you can grab yourself all the latest and greatest deals the minute they drop.

Best Cyber Monday cat toy deals today

• PetSmart - Grab a bargain on seasonal toys and everyday pet supplies
• Amazon - Huge selection of deals for dogs, cats, small animals, fish and more
• Petco -  Top deals on pet supplies and pet products 
• Walmart - Shop Walmart's Cyber Monday Pet Supply Deals for 2021
• Chewy - Small prices just got smaller with these great early Cyber deals 

Amazon

Chewy

Petco

Walmart

Cyber Monday deals around the web

The links below will get you straight to the Cyber Monday deal pages of pet retailer's offering cyber weekend bargains. There are already hundreds of discounts available, and you can expect to see many more throughout the week, so it's worth bookmarking them so you can check in regularly.

• PetCo - Browse special Cyber Monday sales for discounts on dog & cat products
• Chewy - Early cyber savings
• Amazon - Huge selection of deals for dogs, cats, small animals, fish and more
• Walmart - Shop Walmart's Cyber Monday Pet Supply Deals for 2021

Knowing how to clean cat toys may not be as obvious as it sounds. In fact, many people simply don’t do it. While we routinely clean bowls, beds, and animals themselves, even the best cat toys can often get overlooked. Which isn't great as they can be potential breeding grounds for germs and all kinds of nasties that could cause real harm to both you and your pet. 

Knowing how often to clean cat toys, as well as the different treatments that different kinds of toys require takes a little bit of thought – which is where this handy guide comes in. 

Making sure your cat toys are kept clean can also prolong their life before you need to throw them away – which saves you money, as well as reducing your environmental impact. There will always come a time when throwing away is the safest thing to do however, so we also cover that in our advice below. 

Keep reading to find out more. 

• Is your cat bored? 10 tips to entertain your moggy
• How to play with a cat: A vet’s advice on keeping your cat active
• Six reasons you should play with your cat right now

How often should I clean my cat toys?

There’s not a one-size fits all answer to this question, since it depends on a number of variables. Don’t worry, you don’t need to clean them on a daily basis, but it’s a good idea to keep a check on your feline friend’s toys – especially their favourites. 

For fabric and catnip toys, you probably want to keep washing relatively light and on a “need to” basis, since high temperatures and very frequent washing can damage them. For toys made from a sturdier material – such as plastic – a more regular cleaning regime can be put in place since it’s much easier – roughly once a week is a good starting point if you can.

How to clean fabric cat toys

You’ll need to take extra care of fabric toys, since frequent washing can cause stitching to loosen, colours to fade and stuffing to lose its shape. Some fabric toys can withstand washing in a machine, but it’s best to check the manufacturer’s information – usually found on the label, or the packaging when you first buy the toy. 

If the toy is unbroken / undamaged, it will probably be safe on a hot wash, so if you want to make sure any germs are removed, then a 40-60 degree wash is recommended. It’s a good idea to put toys like this in with other items – such as towels – so that they’re not rattling around on their own. 

If there’s any loose stitching, or you’re worried about damage, soak fabric toys in the sink with some detergent (dish soap is ideal) before scrubbing away any obvious stains with a sponge, dishcloth or even an old/disused toothbrush. 

Afterwards, it’s important to thoroughly rinse any soap off the toys, and put them somewhere out of your moggy’s way to completely dry. It’s best to avoid tumble drying if you can, instead placing them on/near a radiator or in an airing cupboard is good. 

How to clean plastic cat toys

On the whole, plastic or rubber cat toys are simpler to clean. You won’t want to put these in your washing machine, but you could consider placing them in your dishwasher – hot water will do a good job of sanitizing your toys, but avoid high drying temperatures which could melt or warp your plastic toys. 

You can also use a simple anti-bacterial spray, sprayed onto a cloth before wiping down your cats favourite toys. After you’ve done this, it’s best to rinse off toys with clean water to make sure no chemical residues are left behind. Dry the toy completely with a towel or in a drying rack before giving it back to your pet.

How to clean catnip toys

Any toys that your cat has with catnip inside them need to be treated slightly differently. They’re likely to be made from fabric, but for obvious reasons they’re likely to be chewed on far more than other types of toys. Spot cleaning with a cloth, or soaking in clean water (without detergent), is the best idea for this kind of toy. 

If the toy is the kind that lets you refill it with catnip, you can also take out any catnip holder first, clean the toy thoroughly, then refill it with catnip when you’re ready. Either way, you should avoid using any kind of detergent or chemicals with these kinds of toys, since you don’t want your cat to ingest it. 

How to clean a cat scratching post

Aside from cleaning your kitty's toys, there are also other well-used items that are worth freshening up from time to time. With that in mind, here's how we would recommend cleaning one of the best cat scratching posts or towers:

1) Using a stiff brush, loosen and remove any dirt and/or cat hair on it, using short, heavy strokes.

2) Vacuum the post using one of the long attachments to go over every inch of it. One with a brush on the end is probably most ideal.

3) If there are still cat hairs on it, try using a fabric softener. Alternatively, a damp washcloth or lint roller can be used to pick them up. Once this has been done, try vacuuming it again to remove any newly loosened hair.

4) If a cat has been sick or been to the toilet on it, spray on some cat-friendly disinfectant, leave on for a bit, then wipe off with a damp cloth.

5) In more extreme cases of the cat tower getting messy, a carpet cleaner could be used. Used in conjunction with a steam cleaner, this could be particularly effective. 

How to know when to throw away cat toys

There’s only so much that cleaning can do for your cat toys. There will also likely come a point when you simply need to dispose of older and severely damaged toys to protect your cat’s health. 

Any toy which is made from fabric, fur, feathers and so on which now has loose parts, stuffing hanging out, errant fibres etc could be a potential choking hazard. If you can’t repair the toy, it’s best to throw it away. It’s also harder to clean damaged toys like this, so once it’s passed it’s best, it’s time to get rid. 

For toys made of plastic or hard materials, again, keep a careful eye out for any small/dislodged parts which could be accidentally swallowed by your cat. If the toy is excessively scratched, this can also be problematic for germs – so throw it away should you see lots of deep grooves and scratches. 

Spick and span

Now that you’ve learned about how to clean cat toys you can make sure your feline friend is kept safe when enjoying their playtime. You can also make your toys last longer and keep your home smelling fresh and clean. If you need to buy some new cat toys, check out our guide to the best cat toys you can buy right now.

If you're looking to give your lazy feline a bit of workout, then prepare to rejoice at the very sight of the Nerf Cat Catnip Blaster.

The latest launch from everybody's favorite childhood toy brand takes the concept of firing foam darts, discs or balls to a whole new level by letting you load the toy blaster with catnip discs instead.

The idea is sure to be a smashing hit with pet owners seeking out the best cat toys to enjoy with their furry friends, but it's actually designed with your cat's natural instincts in mind.

Not only can you load it with cat treats, but the blaster also features a built-in laser that projects red LED light to create even more of a chase that's perfect for kittens and for older cats who love to play.

• Best automated cat toys: Keep your cat amused when you have no time to play
• Are cats playful? Six insights into a cat's play behavior

If you find that your cat is particularly prone to zoomies, then you'll be delighted with the range on this toy. The blaster can shoot catnip discs about 10 feet in the air, which is sure to result in more than its fair share of hilarious moments, particularly if your kitty is used to living in your home without paying their dues. Now, your cat will most definitely have to work for their treats!

Not to mention that if you have dogs in your household too, you can always pick up a Nerf dog tennis ball blaster as well for twice the fun.

If you love the idea, you can pick it up over on the Petco website for around $14.99 for a pack of three, so you're sure to be stocked up for when your cat is ready for action.

The PEEKAB Cat Scratching Post with Cat Tracks Toy looks so much fun, it's hard not to wish there was a large-size human equivalent. In many ways, it's a kitty theme park for the home, earning itself an honorable place in our guide to the best cat scratching posts and garnering plenty of fans online. 

For starters, cats can relieve their urge to scratch and keep those claws in shape without troubling your furniture. They can then bat at a ball attached to the 25-inch high post or engage with the colorful trackball toy that is placed around the base.

It's certainly a good looking toy. With its overall beige coloring, it won't look out of place in the corner of many living rooms and it's not too large as to be dominating either. It uses natural materials in the main (the plastic excepted) and, with just four fixings, you'll have it assembled in super-quick time.

PEEKAB Cat Scratching Post with Cat Tracks Toy: Features

This scratching post is not as large as some of the others we've seen. It has a 16-inch by 12-inch base to provide support for the 25-inch post but, ideally, a cat scratcher should be about 31 inches so it does fall a little short. The pedestal is also significantly smaller than the base and it won't be big enough for larger feline friends such as a Maine Coon. All that said, the manufacturer reckons the PEEKAB Cat Scratching Post is suitable for cats up to 12 pounds which covers most domestic breeds and many purchasers say their cats are making fantastic use of it.

It's easy to see why. The scratching post is made of sturdy cardboard covered in natural sisal – the best material to use because it's strong, rough and doesn't catch a cat's claws in the way that posts covered in carpet can do. The ball on top of the post is also sure to be a draw for your moggy, particularly because it has a feather attached, tapping into their predatory instinct to hunt feathery creatures. The fact it's on a removable rotating arm adds to the fun since it can encourage them to chase.

Of course, upping the excitement stakes is the three-tier trackball toy at the base, with the rolling nature of the balls sure to appeal to a cat's curiosity and amuse them for hours. Some users have reported the balls going missing as cats manage to loosen them from the tracks. If this happens and you can't find them, then ping-pong balls are said to work just as well, but it's something to bear in mind.

PEEKAB Cat Scratching Post with Cat Tracks Toy: User reviews 

While the PEEKAB Cat Scratching Post with Cat Tracks Toy isn’t as highly-rated as the SmartCat Pioneer Pet Ultimate Scratching Post, the addition of the toys make it a very attractive proposition. As one reviewer wrote: “Took about a day before one of the kittens discovered the swinging ball on the top of the scratcher. Now it is the best toy in the house.” Another commented: “It took a little convincing for my two 8 week old kittens to figure this out but once they did, it was off to the races.”

It certainly appears that, in a good number of cases, cats are taking well to this scratching post and making use of all of its features. As a buyer said: “My kitten loves the feathers on this and will play forever with it and then, when he’s tired of that, he plays with the balls. And then he will fall asleep on the stand until he is ready for the next round. And he loves the sisal rope, it is saving my furniture!”

The main problem, it would seem (even among those who rate the product highly), is the likelihood of the balls coming away from the track. It's mentioned numerous times which suggests it's a common issue and one that quickly become very annoying, we can surmise. It does, however, suggest that the cats are at least engaging with them and that's rather important.

Not that all cats will enjoy what's on offer. “I've tried catnip to entice, showed her the movement of the balls and she won't go near it,” said one reviewer. Others say the pedestal is too small. “My cat couldn't even sit on it,” one commented. Definitely double check the sizes before making your decision to buy. 

Should you buy the PEEKAB Cat Scratching Post with Cat Tracks Toy? 

In general, cats will flock towards a scratching post with or without toys so don't buy the PEEKAB Cat Scratching Post purely because you think your feline friend is more likely to use it. Do buy it, however, if you want a tidy two-in-one solution: one that will satiate your cat's desire to scratch while providing them with hours of amusement.

It's not the most expensive scratching post on the market and it's generally well-designed. Judging by the reaction of people who have bought it, cats also make good use out of all of its features which is a good indication of how appealing it is to moggies – after all, nobody wants to buy a scratching post that sits abandoned in the corner.

If you've got a fearless feline or two in your home, then it's time to reach for the Pawaboo Cat Tunnel Tube Collapsible Play Tent.

This fun, lightweight addition to a room transforms your floor into a kitty playpen, complete with multiple exits and entrances, ideal for playing the most common games with your cats, including hide-and-seek and treat-based fetch.

The best cat toys are often the most simple and the Pawaboo Cat Tunnel Tube doesn't disappoint in this area: it's hassle-free and doesn’t need batteries, so it's great for pet parents, but just how does it stack up in the feline entertainment stakes?

If you're not sure whether to buy the Pawaboo Cat Tunnel Tube Collapsible Play Tent for your little adventure cats, we'll be weighing up some of the pros and cons of the product, including its durability, size, special features, and most important of all: entertainment value! 

Pawaboo Cat Tunnel Tube Collapsible Play Tent: Features

Featuring spacious tunnels and a sleek black and blue design, the Pawaboo Cat Tunnel Tube Collapsible Play Tent considers both style and convenience.

It's made from polyester taffeta, which holds up to a cat's claws pretty well, even considering its lightweight design. Even kitties with a wild streak will find it difficult to puncture the material. However, the product does suffer a few issues in the durability department. 

The key feature here is that it's collapsible, the tubes pop out and can be folded easily away using the provided elastic band, but its handy convenience also presents a challenge to the design of the play tent.

The wire rings can come away from the fabric with plenty of frequent use, but by and large, the Pawaboo Cat Tunnel Tube Collapsible Play Tent is surprisingly tough for even the wildest of kitties to explore. 

There's some great design choices here. We love the peephole at the top that they can poke their heads out, and there's a real focus on providing a fun sensory experience for cats. The addition of the hanging ball bell toy and the fact that the material makes a rustling noise is a great touch for engaging cats, alongside the simple hide-and-seek functionality. 

With a diameter of 25cm x 35cm, it's also fairly roomy for most kittens and small cats to move and turn around in but it could pose a tight squeeze for tubby or adult cats. 

Pawaboo Cat Tunnel Tube Collapsible Play Tent: User Reviews

Feline fans of the Pawaboo Cat Tunnel Tube Collapsible Play Tent love playing, hiding and generally letting loose inside this handy hideaway. The sensory features are typically praised by pet owners who love seeing their kitty go wild at the sound of the bell and crunching material.

Even kitties who have clawed immediately at their new toy in a furry frenzy have not caused too much destruction to the product's hardy material. 

It's regarded as fairly sizeable for kittens to move and turn around in, but pet owners can find it on the small side for older cats. 

Owners who want to use the product outside have been disappointed with the material not being waterproof. Its design does look akin to the material used on an outdoor tent, but it isn't suitable for use in the backyard. Small animal owners may find use for it inside the home instead.   

Should you buy the Pawaboo Cat Tunnel Tube Collapsible Play Tent?

If you've got multiple cats or kittens in your household, buying the Pawaboo Cat Tunnel Tube Collapsible Play Tent is particularly advisable. There's nothing quite like the sight of many felines popping in and out of their new toy for maximum entertainment value - for owner and kitties alike. 

Elderly cats who prefer a more laid-back lifestyle in their golden years may turn their noses up at this cool cat toy, so we recommend it mainly for kittens and young cats who are likely to get a lot more use and enjoyment out of it.

The product is available in a few different styles, from 3 to 5 tunnels, so be sure to choose the best one for the number of furkids in your home.

The PetSafe FroliCat Cheese Automatic Cat Teaser is a simple pounce toy that aims to arouse your cat's curiosity by having two mice pop out of a couple of holes in a casing resembling a block of cheese. It's a plaything that can be enjoyed while you engage with your moggy but it can be safely activated when you're away as well. To that end, it's a fine example of the best automated cat toys but how well does it stand up to testing by our feline reviewer?

PetSafe FroliCat Cheese Automatic Cat Teaser: Features

On the face of it, this toy appears to offer value for money. It's suitably large, ensuring your cat can't help but notice it, and it's also made out of a robust, shiny plastic which certainly feels as if it would stand up to any rigorous swiping and grabbing from some over-eager paws.

It comes lightly packed too. Although it's wrapped within a protective plastic bag, it's placed within a firm cardboard box. You also get a 36-page instruction booklet but don't worry – this is split across 11 languages and you only need to read two of those pages to understand what you have to do.

First of all, you need to insert three AA batteries which, frustratingly, are not included. From that point on, however, it's just a case of pressing the power button which is easily accessible on top of the device. Since this has to be firmly pushed, it can't be accidentally activated. Similarly, you need to press for three seconds in order to turn it off.

As a nice touch, the underside of the device has a set of three rubber feet which means it's less likely to slip and slide when it's being pawed. We're also impressed that there are no sharp edges. Having run a finger all around the toy, we didn't feel any point that could cut through the skin.

PetSafe FroliCat Cheese Automatic Cat Teaser: How does it fare?

So how well did our cat Nova take to the product? When we placed the toy on the carpet, he barely batted an eyelid – until we turned it on. Suddenly, his ears pricked up, his eyes widened and he quickly got on his feet and began to slowly stalk towards the plastic cheese, assessing what on earth the movement could be.

Eventually, he got very close but veered mainly to one side where the mouse was popping out a hole closer to the ground. He watched with great interest yet seemed to slightly jump back at times when the mouse came further out (it has a couple of lengths which adds some variety). Sadly, he didn't paw at the toy or make any attempt to grab it.

Not to be deterred, we turned the device off (left alone it will continue for between 10 and 15 minutes before powering down itself – a good battery saver as well as a way to prevent your cat from getting used to the movement). We then waited an hour and powered it back on. This time, Nova was presented with the cheese at an angle so that the mouse higher up on the other side was more visible. Again, our reviewer got close but simply watched with interest.

Maybe Nova was being put off by us taking photographs of his endeavor so we tried the Play-While-You-Are-Away Mode. This is easy to set up – it's a matter of holding the power button until it beeps three times. Oddly, the toy begins immediately (we're not away yet!), but after 10 to 15 minutes it turns off, coming back on two hours later. When that play session ends, it resumes once more in two hours.

How do we know? Well, aside from saying so in the instructions, we set up a Blink home security camera to spy on our furry friend and, left to his own devices, Nova eventually engaged and seemed to have great fun trying to get at the mouse. We couldn't help but feel that the toy could be more varied, though: the mice only appear through two holes and a few more could perhaps make it a tad less predictable, although we're seeing this through a human mind.

PetSafe FroliCat Cheese Automatic Cat Teaser: User reviews

There's no doubt that many cats are having a great time with this toy. According to one reviewer who has five rescue cats, “every one of them has spent time today playing with it, watching it, pouncing on it, you name it and they have interacted with it.”

Another pointed out that it's “well made” adding, “the mice pop in and out randomly from each side which amuses her immensely”. 

It would also appear that the younger the cat is, the more curious they are likely to be. “Our three young cats absolutely love this toy,” a reviewer said. “In fact, they like it so much that we have to hide it when not in use or they get it out themselves and try to work out how to switch it on!”.

Should you buy the PetSafe FroliCat Cheese Automatic Cat Teaser?

Cats are curious creatures by nature and seeing our feline reviewer immediately head towards this toy and spend a good while trying to work out what was happening, certainly shows that it piques a moggy's interest. When left to explore the toy alone – which is one of the key features of the product – this interest then turned into greater interactivity and it was a joy to see a toy giving pleasure.

Given how inexpensive the PetSafe FroliCat Cheese Automatic Cat Teaser is, it therefore comes recommended, more so if you have kittens. Not only is it well-built and sturdy, the batteries last for a good while (it's just a shame there's no plug option). It's also very easy to operate regardless of how you're looking to use it. Oh, and there's a two-years manufacturer's warranty as well.

The Dancing Dot Laser Cat Toy is a cute-looking tech device that aims to tap into your kitty's instinct to chase and pounce. By aiming a laser towards the ground and quickly moving the light at random, it not only catches your cat's attention but keeps moggies mentally and physically stimulated for a decent period of time – all with very little effort on your part.

Simply place it on a flat surface or hang it from a doorknob and you can sit back and let the toy do its thing. The higher it is positioned, the wider the area the laser will cover and you can either set it for a one-off session or have it fire up automatically every couple of hours – features that made it our overall pick of the best automated cat toys.

PetSafe Dancing Dot Laser Toy: Features

It's clear that some thought has gone into the Dancing Dot Laser Cat Toy. For starters, as you take it out of the box and remove the protective plastic bag, you'll be immediately struck by its feline-styling – a fun, rounded design topped by a pair of cat ears and finished with a four-legged stand that makes popping it on a shelf or table top very easy indeed.

Such thought also extends to the most important part of the device: the laser pointer. This is located towards the bottom of the toy and it's angled at the ground. Not only does this ensure the light will flit around the floor, it also makes the laser far less likely to suddenly catch your eye. This, as we will discuss in a mo, is important because lasers don't come without caution.

Before you can get to see the toy in action, however, you need to insert some batteries. The device takes three AAA cells which are not included but, to insert them, you have to loosen a tiny screw to remove the battery door then tighten it again when refitting. It's presumably because AAA cells are relatively slim so they're more easily swallowed by children but it was a tad frustrating nonetheless.

Our next hindrance (and this one's on us!) was finding the power button. We looked around the device, having not consulted the manual, and realized that it is located to the left-hand side – the “issue” being that it's the same colour as the casing and fits flush. Once we found it, though, we liked the thinking. It's good that the button blends in well and the location ensures its easily accessible.

But how does it work? Well, there are two main functional features – “One-Time-Play” and “Play-All-Day”. The first is activated by pressing and releasing the power button and it starts a session lasting 15 minutes. The second requires you to press and hold the button until it beeps and this ensures that the toy will turn on for 15 minutes every couple of hours. But, in reality, it's not quite as straightforward as that.

Dancing Dot Laser Cat Toy: How does it fare?

We tried the toy in both of the recommended positions: sitting on a table top and hanging from a door handle using the strap that pokes out of the top of the device. In both instances, it resulted in the exact same outcome which was to shine a nice, bright laser light on to the ground and this certainly caught the attention of our reviewing cat.

Nova, it seems, likes nothing better than to chase a laser around the floor and he followed it with great enthusiasm. The movement felt random as the laser darted here, there and everywhere, ensuring head and paws remained active throughout the One-Time-Play Session. Our cat's focus was entirely on the ground although he did look at once at the source of the light, possibly because we were standing next to it.

This isn't really desirable. Although the toy uses a Class 1 laser which is the least hazardous type, the manual accompanying this product still comes with a warning. It clearly states that there is a risk of exposure to laser radiation and that you should never look into the laser beam or the laser beam reflection, averting your eyes immediately if you catch a glimpse of it.

It goes without saying that you wouldn't want your cat to eyeball the laser either so the manual also says that you should “supervise pet while playing with this product”. This is great advice and yet the product has a Play-All-Day feature which activates a 15-minute session every two hours.

We assumed this feature is designed for use when you're away from home, allowing your cat to be stimulated in your absence. Yet the warning made us think twice about using this mode in such a way and, as such, we'd be more inclined to stick to the One-Time-Play-Session mode. Not that it puts us off from using the product, though.

After all, most of the fun of a laser toy is that you can actually watch a skitty kitty darting around the place, and not having to do the controlling yourself means you can relax as your cat chases and pounces. Restricting sessions to 15 minutes worked well too. It ensured the battery didn't run down as fast and it prevented Nova from getting bored.

That said, we found the noise of the motor inside the toy was a little annoying and it would have been lovely if we could control the device from a phone, tablet or computer – a feature that, granted, would increase the price of the product somewhat. As it is, though, the toy kept our cat occupied for pretty much the full 15 minutes of each session. His inability to tire of the toy was admirable!

PetSafe FroliCat Cheese Automatic Cat Teaser: User reviews

Most users recommend this product. One wrote: “Does exactly as it says, nice random movements so it doesn't get boring, decent speed so kittens can keep up.” Another added: “Hours of fun, my three love it, best laser toy yet”.

But it's not unanimous. There are concerns that laser toys frustrate cats because they can chase and pounce but never actually catch. “If you haven't looked into laser pens and OCD in cats, do so before purchasing anything like this,” a user advised.

Should you buy the PetSafe FroliCat Cheese Automatic Cat Teaser?

If you're looking for a toy that springs into action for 15 minutes every couple of hours while you're out and about, then you may reckon this product is ideal. But then you have to remember that it's best used under supervision so if this is going to be your primary use of the Dancing Dot Laser Cat Toy, then you may want to reconsider.

But that's not to say you should write it off. Having a device that can automatically move a laser pointer around the floor for short-burst sessions proved good fun for both us and our cat. It has also become one of the most used toys in our pet box. As long as you and your cat avoid looking directly at the source and avoid reflective surfaces, this is certainly a recommended product.

In these features, the experts answer, 'Why do cats chase lasers?' and 'Are lasers pointers bad for cats?' Or, check out the best cat toys.

The best fish cat toys will keep your furry friend entertained and amused. They are perfect for giving your cat plenty of physical and mental stimulation. Throw down a fish cat toy in front of them, switch it on and watch your furry friend spring into life! It's no surprise then that one made it into our round up of the best cat toys overall. 

Fish cat toys come in a variety of guises, but they all have a common purpose – to stimulate and entertain. You can choose a battery-powered flipper fish to get your feline friend excited, or perhaps a simpler plush toy, made with crinkle material and stuffed with catnip to stimulate your cat. Although if your cat is big fan of the herb do take a look our round up of the best catnip toys too.

If you fancy introducing your cat to fish in water, you can try battery-powered robot fish. But a more interactive one-on-one play experience can be had with something like the Koi dangler from Hartz. Those who find themselves to busy for feline playtimes should take a look at our guide to the best automated cat toys.

Here you can find our top picks of the best fish cat toys on the market to help you decide what is the best option for you and your cat. 

PetsRadar’s pick of the best fish cat toys

The Beewarm Flippity Fish Cat Toy is a simulation fish toy that looks like a real fish – and this is part of the attraction for cats. It will keep your furry friend amused, stimulated and happy. 

It’s available as a host of different fish types. You can choose from Catfish, Koi, Grass Grap, Salmon and – not quite a fish – Lobster. All have a realistic fish pattern and are made from cotton and short plush. This means they are soft and won’t harm your cat's paws or teeth when they are biting, chewing or kicking the fish cat toy. And, to make sure that your furry friend stays safe and well there are no chemicals or hazardous substances inside the toy. 

To add a touch of realism and fun for your cat the toy swings its tail and flops automatically. This is powered by a rechargeable unit inside the fish. All you need to do is pull open the velcro fastener to get access to it. 

To recharge the unit you need a standard USB cable and a power source. Takes around an hour or two to recharge. Handily the unit is removable so that you can wash the fish cat toy when needed – it is hand and machine washable. Just make sure it's fully dry before you put the rechargeable unit back inside the fish. 

It’s not just the visual stimulation that attracts your furry friend. To get a playful reaction from your feline try adding a sachet of catnip. This is a 100% natural herb that cats typically respond to by sniffing, chewing, licking, head shaking and chin, cheek, and body rubbing. It doesn’t work with all cats – or kittens – but give it a go to add a bit more fun for your cat. 

This is a cat fish toy that keeps your feline friend happy and amused, and has the added bonus of being environmentally-friendly. SmartyKat products are made principally from recycled, reclaimed, renewable and certified organic resources. They come as a set of three – each with its own unique style – and are designed to bring out your cat's natural hunting instincts. 

They are shaped like fish, feature crinkle material and all come with a tail. Each design has slightly different material and extras to help stimulate your cat senses. There is the most basic design which offers a camouflage fish material along with a top fin and a long twirly ribbon to add extra interest. Oddly, there’s a red hunters plaid material fish. Cats are meant to be confused by the colour red and typically see it as a shade of green. But, the design does come with a long feather rather than a fin to help stimulate their senses. The final design in the three pack has a shiny fishing lure orange with crinkle material that is similar to fish scales. This design also has a feather instead of a fin to add to the play fun. 

None of the designs are large, but they are ideally sized for an average cat to bat around and carry in their mouth. 

The SmartyKat toys do not come with any electronics or moving parts – unlike fish cat toys like the BeeASmart – to stimulate your cat. But this does mean you don’t need to worry about charging the Smartykat to get the best out of the toys. They are filled with pure ingredients – that are free from chemicals and pesticides – and catnip which will stimulate and excite most cats.

The TOOGE Electric Moving Fish Cat Toy is similar to the Beewarm Flippity Fish Cat Toy in a lot of ways, but it offers subtle differences and buying options. It is available in three packs of two, with each pack offering two different fish – and slightly varying price points. The packs are named after colours rather than a fish type. Get your hands on the black pack and you get a Catfish and a Koi. Choose the slightly more pricey red pack and you get two salmon. Choose the most expensive of the packs  – orange – and you get a Goldfish and a Koi Carp. 

To make sure that you can use the fish cat toy straight out of the box each pack of two comes with two USB cables – for charging – and two packs of catnip. One for each fish.

Each fish is 3D printed with a realistic fish design to give the soft plush toy the look of a real fish. The Tooge has a zipper on the bottom of the fish that reveals the USB charging unit that makes the fish appear more life-like with a tail wiggle. All you need to do is use the supplied cable to charge up the fish. 

The charging unit is fully removable meaning that you can slip it out – and charge at the same time – and pop the toy into the washing machine for a quick clean.
Once dry put the unit back in, slip in the catnip packet and tap the fish to get its tail wiggling and your furry feline will jump into action. Perfect for keeping you and your cat happy. 

Cats aren’t fond of water but when they see a fish swimming around they can become transfixed and can’t help but pop a paw in the water and play. These interactive robot fish toys may not be the real thing but they are a great way to stimulate your furry feline’s natural hunting instincts.

They come in four different colours – note these may vary from those in the product shot. Each robot fish is powered by 2 x LR44 batteries which are included. As an added bonus there are eight extra batteries for when the originals run out. There is also a small installation tool included to make the replacement easy.

But you might well need the extra batteries pretty quickly. The battery life for a single fish is around 20-30 minutes if used continuously. So the manufacturer recommends that you only run two fish as a time for around five minutes. Then replace with the other two fish for another five minutes to help prolong battery life. These short bursts of activity are long enough to keep your cat entertained for as long as they are interested in the fish. 

Another battery-saving device is the automatic swimming feature. The fish do not switch on until they are placed into the water. A robotic fin moves back and forth to get the toy moving in the water. You don’t need to switch them off either as they will automatically stop working when you take them out of the water. If it doesn’t wipe with a dry cloth. To add to the excitement the fish cat toys also contain built-in LEDs that flash and light up when the fish is put into the water.

If you are not sure what type of fish cat toy your furry friend will like then this mult-pack is a great place to start. It provides a combination of toys in different sizes, colours and designs. There are seven pieces in the pack including five refillable Catnip fish cat toys. These vary in length from 7.5 inches to 8.6 inches which makes them a great size for cats who like to bite and carry off their prey. To ensure that your cat stays healthy and happy each of the fish is made from a quality plush fabric with a non-toxic and safe stuffing.

The fish are printed with five different realistic designs including Koi, salmon, and a couple of cat favourites, mackerel and sardine. To make the fish cat toys more attractive and stimulating to your feline friend each toy is stuffed with just the right amount of catnip. The pack comes with extra catnip so you can get rid of the old and refill when you want to. A zipper on the bottom of the toy gives access to the inside of the fish. All you need to do is scoop out the catnip and replace. This is a good time to think about washing the toy – whether by hand or in a washing machine. The pack is not exclusively fish, it also contains a couple of catnip fur mouse cat toys which are filled with catnip and will work just as well as the fish to keep your cat entertained. 

This is an interactive fish cat toy. What this means is that you need to be part of your favourite felines play time for them to get the best out of it. The Hartz Cattraction replicates a fish caught on a fishing line. Dangle the fish in front of your cat, give it a wiggle and watch your cat try and swat it. If this does work you can try dragging slowly along the ground in front of them and watch them get ready to pounce. This will keep them entertained for as long as you are happy to keep up the one-on-one play with your feline friend. 

If you don’t have the time – or are feeling a little lazy – you can suction the wand to a hard surface and let your cat indulge in solo play. The elastic string causes a random and fun bouncing motion to make sure that your cat doesn’t get bored quickly.
The Hartz Cattraction toy comes in eight different varieties with the Koi Dangler being the only fish in the collection. The plush toy Koi is available in two colours, but unfortunately you don’t get to choose. You will be shipped whatever colour the manufacturer decides on. 

A lot of fish cat toys come with catnip as an extra stimulant to excite your cat, but not all cats like catnip. The Hartz toy uses catnip but combines it with Silver Vine –  a vine that grows in the high mountainous regions of eastern Asia. Silver Vine is another natural and effective cat attractant that stimulates more cats than just catnip alone. An ideal choice to try if your cat is not a big fan of catnip. 

How to choose the best fish cat toy

When on the lookout for a fish cat toy for your feline friend there are a few choices out there. If you are feeling generous you could treat your cat to more than one as even the high end options will hardly break the bank. 

Catnip is a common theme through a lot of fish cat toys. It is a natural herb that stimulates a cat's senses. All the models in this buying guide either come pre-stuffed with catnip or have the option to add yourself. It definitely helps make a fish cat toy more appealing to cats. But, not every cat likes catnip, so you might need to rely on other features as well to get your cat in a playful mood. 

At the budget end of the scale there are the simple stuffed plush toys. These could be the first option to try. The SMARTYKAT Fish Friends Crinkle Catnip Cat Toy is a simple fish-shaped toy that comes covered with crinkle material and additional features to help stimulate your feline friend. The Hartz Cattraction is attached to a wand by string, so you will need to get involved to get your cat interested. The Youngever Cat Toys are a great value option with five stuffed fish – and a couple of mice toys as added extras. 

If you want the toy to do more of the work then the Beewarm Flippity Fish Cat Toy and TOOGE Electric Moving Fish Cat Toy are good choices. Both are plush toys with realistic fish patterns, rechargeable batteries and catnip pouches. All you need to do is choose which fish you like. Finally, if you want to introduce water to your cat's playtime then consider entertaining them with the Indoor Cat Interactive Swimming Fish Toy. 

The PetSafe FroliCat Stimulating Exercise Laser Cat Toy (to give it its full name) operates much as you would expect: by emitting a laser that moves around its immediate vicinity. Anyone who has ever watched their cat chase a laser pen’s mark will know what comes next: much fun as your kitty frantically stampedes after it, never deterred by either not being able to catch it, or only being met by thin air when they do. It’s a new addition to the stable of laser cat toys out there, but how does it rank? We take a look and find out in the following review…

• Best automatic laser cat toys: Six low-effort ways to keep them captivated
• Best laser toys for cats: Keep your cat active and entertained for hours
• Best interactive cat toys: Fun toys for better cat play

PetSafe FroliCat Stimulating Exercise Laser Cat Toy: Features

Upon set up, you will find that the PetSafe FroliCat Stimulating Exercise Laser Cat Toy comes with two pretty self-explanatory modes: manual, in which you can point it in any direction you desire; and automatic, which lets you use it hands-free.

This is undoubtedly its best feature, as it means you can effectively leave it running while you are away or otherwise occupied – ideal for those days in the home office.

You might have some concerns about this, either about the safety of lasers, or about leaving this product running indefinitely. Happily, these concerns have been addressed, with the manufacturer pointing out that the lasers have been tested and declared safe for both your cats and your home.

Moreover, the laser is designed to cease operation after 15 minutes of being continuously in use. This will give your cats – and your batteries – a well-earned break.

Whichever way you choose to operate it, there are a large number of potential benefits for your cat. Firstly, it encourages them to get some exercise, which is especially important if they are essentially housebound.

Secondly, it helps them hone their natural instincts. When the laser moves slowly before suddenly darting onwards, they gain much-needed practice at natural cat behaviors like jumping, pouncing, and climbing. You don’t want your cat to turn into a couch potato, and with this laser, that possibility will be greatly reduced.

Reports on the battery life on offer have been mixed, so we would recommend getting some high-quality rechargeable AA ones to use with this. Other than that, we’re satisfied that when you purchase this product, you’re getting something that is safe, reliable, and great value for money.

PetSafe FroliCat Stimulating Exercise Laser Cat Toy: User reviews

While generally the comments from users relating to this product have been positive, a couple of issues have been raised (unrelated to the occasional complaint about it being delivered in substandard condition).

One recurring issue concerns the battery life, with some complaining that the batteries run out quickly, or that certain parts of the product just stop working after a month or so. These complaints are minority admittedly, and remedied by purchasing decent batteries and the warranty respectively, but still should be something you bear in mind.

Also mentioned is how noisy the device can be when in operation. While this hasn’t been an issue for most customers, others report that their cats have been distracted by this to the point where they haven’t noticed the laser.

To be honest though, the downsides seem to be greatly outweighed by the plaudits this has generally received. Check out the Amazon reviews page for this product, and you will see numerous videos depicting some very happy four-legged customers. 

Pick just one, and you’ll see moggies darting here, there, and everywhere in pursuit of the elusive laser. Some even report that their cats start to complain when the laser turns off - it’s hard to think of a higher accolade than that!

As regards the actual quality of the product, again the comments are positive. The laser reaches a decent length, and is suitably unpredictable, making it great for keeping your cat on their toes.

Should you buy the PetSafe FroliCat Stimulating Exercise Laser Cat Toy?

If you’re looking for a reliable and effective laser cat toy, then in our mind you could do worse than try out the PetSafe FroliCat Stimulating Exercise Laser Cat Toy. Admittedly there are a number of similar devices out there, but the mainly positive nature of the reviews mean that it is easy to single this out – in a good way. Increasingly today with the amount of distractions that are about, you need something that you know will keep your cat occupied when you’re not able to do so, and this product will certainly meet that need.

Enjoyed this? You might also want to learn why do cats chase lasers.

The PetSafe FroliCat Dart Duo Interactive Dual Laser is an automatic rotating light cat toy with two lasers, offering an array of unpredictable movements for restless felines. The 360-degree laser patterns and 16 play combinations bring much variety to playtimes, and it also comes with four variable speed settings and convenient 15-minute timer. Check out our round of the best cat toys overall and see if it makes it in.

Designed to be practical, it is lightweight to carry around the home (or travel), and can be placed either on the floor or on higher surfaces if you have over-excited cats. 

It also operates on 3 AA batteries and comes with a handy two-year warranty if any issues arise.  You can find more inspiration on this product in our look at the best laser cat toys.

• Best interactive cat toys: Ten toys to get your moggy moving
• Best catnip toys: Amuse your cat with toys they’ll love
• Best kitten toys: Keep your young cat entertained

PetSafe, FroliCat Dart Duo, Interactive, Dual Laser Cat Toy: Features

The PetSafe FroliCat Dart Duo Interactive Dual cat toy’s stand-out feature is its dual rotating lasers. While many laser toys only have one, the randomized dual laser beams are great for excitable cats to chase, dart around and generally get them moving. 

Another impressive feature is the adjustable speed settings creating 16 play combinations, which can certainly make playtimes more exciting and stimulating. The lasers move well, changing direction when up against an obstacle, which will also provide much-needed exercise for your feline pals.  

Another plus is it doesn’t require a lot of floor space to work efficiently, even working well on carpet. And the three distance settings are easily adjustable for smaller or larger rooms.

Best of all, the dual lasers are perfect for shared/group play, so if you have multiple cats, they will particularly enjoy this toy. Also a great way to give tired owners a break from entertaining!

The PetSafe FroliCat Dart Duo Interactive Dual Cat Toy is easy to operate, and while it may not have an attractive design compared to others, it’s practical and versatile to move around the home. Do bear in mind that the lightweight design means it can easily be knocked over by excitable cats if placed on the floor. However, it can easily be placed on a table or up high on a surface.

Another handy feature is the automatic timer set to 15-minute intervals, which is great for giving excitable cats (and owners!) a rest from all that stimulation. This also saves on battery life so you can get the most out of the laser toy. The only downside here is that you don’t have the option to manually set the timer to your preferred time. Which could be an issue for busy owners doing chores or who need to pop out for a couple of hours or so. However, this is guaranteed to keep your cats entertained during short playtimes. 

• Best toys for indoor cats: Five options to keep your furry friend active
• Best automatic laser cat toys: Six low-effort ways to keep them captivated
• Is your cat bored? 10 tips to entertain your moggy

PetSafe, FroliCat Dart Duo, Interactive, Dual Laser Cat Toy User reviews 

The majority of users were pleased with the product, stating how much their cats enjoyed chasing the rotating dual lasers during playtimes. Most liked the fact that it had a long laser range and variety of combination settings providing more fun. One owner went as far as to say that her ‘very fussy’ cat who doesn’t usually like laser toys, ‘cried’ when the play interval timer had stopped.   

While the dual laser toy is designed to offer twice the fun, some owners felt the lasers moved too fast for their feline pals. This meant that they easily lost sight of the red dot at times. However, the dual lasers proved to be a hit for owners with multiple cats, saying it kept them thoroughly entertained and happy. 

A few also mentioned they liked that the laser toy automatically turned itself off after 15 minutes, which meant their fur balls can have a break and owners won’t have to get up to switch it off. 

One common complaint that kept coming up was that the laser toy came with unsightly ‘caution’ stickers placed all over from the manufacturers. Many stated that they couldn’t completely remove the stickers or found them bothersome. However, this is relatively minor and didn’t discredit the laser toy’s function and features. A few also mentioned that the toy was noisy once switched on, but not enough to put active cats off during playtimes!

• Six reasons you should play with your cat right now
• Catit Play Treat Puzzle review

Should you buy the PetSafe, FroliCat Dart Duo, Interactive, Dual Laser Cat Toy?

If you have an active cat or multiple cats who constantly need entertaining, the PetSafe FroliCat Dart Duo, Interactive, Dual Laser Cat Toy is the ideal laser toy. The rotating dual lasers provide plenty of exciting chase, to ensure playtimes are more fun for our cats. For multiple cats, this is perfect for group play and prevents any cat fights (no pun!) over the laser beams. What’s more, the handy 15-minute intervals means that your tired cats can get a bit of a rest and also won’t wear down the battery lifespan. It’s easy to use and lightweight to carry around the home for endless fun.  

Perhaps a downside is the lack of a manual timer that you can set if you need to pop out for longer than 15 minutes. So, if you are a busy cat owner who is out for most of the day, this may not be suitable. However, it still runs much longer than other interactive toys and at such an affordable price, you can’t go wrong!  

This feature answers, 'Why do cats chase lasers?'

'Tis the season to spoil your pet! There's a whole range of Christmas cat toys out there to choose from, so we've scoured the web to find the most fun, stimulating, and exercise-inducing toys we can for your favorite furry friends. If you are wondering which cat toys are best for your cat, then we've got some inspiring ideas for you. 

Cats are notoriously choosy about what they want to play with, so it's usually best to have a couple in stock so you can hide them away and rotate them so boredom and disdain turns to curiosity and re-discovery. Of course, you don't need to splash the cash to entertain your cat, as our guide to DIY cat toys you can make at home proves, but cat toys are often so cheap, you won't need to break the bank to keep them distracted from attacking the baubles on the Christmas tree.

• Pet safety at Christmas: Three holiday dangers lurking in your home
• Seven ways to cat proof Christmas trees
• The best wet cat food: From daily dishes to tasty treats
• The best dry cat foods: King of cat kibble revealed
• Best microchip cat flap: Keep out unwanted feline guests

A great Christmas cat toy will capitalize on your cat's love of hunting, chasing, and pouncing. Whether it's a toy you want to use to play with them yourself, or one to keep them entertained while you are out of the house, we've gathered together a whole range of budget, festive, interactive, and automated cat toys to suit any budget. Go on, treat the feline in your life with our top picks. 

Festive-themed Christmas cat toys

Want your cat to have something under the tree so they can open a real Christmas-themed present at the same time as the rest of the family? Here's a couple of Christmas-themed cat toy gifts to get everyone, including your furry friend, in the Christmas mood....

Budget Christmas cat toys

Not looking to spend a fortune on your Christmas cat toys? Here's a few suggestions for toys to treat your kitty with which won't break the bank...

• Best kitten toys: Teasers, scratchers and laser pointers for your young cat

Laser Christmas cat toys

Lasers mean loads of fun for your furry friend, as cats love to pounce on flitting dots of light. Here are a couple of suggestions...

• Best automatic laser cat toys: Six low-effort ways to keep them captivated
• Best laser toys for cats: Six ways to keep your tabby active and entertained

Catnip-filled Christmas cat toys

Nothing keeps a cat interested in a toy longer than catnip. The smell drives them crazy, and will keep them coming back for more... 

• Best catnip toys: Amuse your cat with these toys 

Automated Christmas cat toys

Want someone to play with your cat when you're not there? Buying your cat an automated cat toy this Christmas means there's something moving around to play with, even if you are visiting relatives during the holidays. Here are a couple of ideas...

• Best toys for indoor cats: Five options to keep your furry friend active
• Best automated cat toys: Amuse your cat when you've no time to play

Interactive Christmas cat toys

If your plan is to get your kitty to get some exercise this Christmas period, then investing in an interactive cat toy is the way forward. Toys that react when they play with them are often a lot more engaging than static toys...

• Best interactive cat toys: Ten toys to get your moggy moving

Tech Christmas cat toys

Really feel like raiding the kitty to spoil yours? Here are a couple of high tech Christmas cat toy ideas (not including the world's most expensive techie cat toy, which is, of course, the iPad):

• See our full review: Skymee Owl Robot review

• Top ten tech gifts for cats and dogs: Put a smile on that furry face this Xmas

Other cat Christmas gift ideas

If you aren't sure that a toy is the right gift for you cat, there are some other ways to treat your fluffy friend. Why not get them a dedicated scratching post, a new comfy bed or a hammock to stretch out in:

• Best cat scratching posts: Save your furniture and keep your kitty’s claws conditioned
• Best luxury cat bed: Six blow-the-budget picks
• Best cat bed: comfy, cosy beds and baskets for snoozy felines
• The best cat hammocks: A comfy cat is a happy cat
• Seven truly outrageous Christmas gifts for pets

Cat puzzle feeder toys are a relatively new concept, but they’re quickly catching on and joining the list of the best cat toys owners can buy. After all, the importance of cat play is well documented as providing for the mental and physical health of our companions – and the great thing is, puzzle feeders can do both of these things! 

The idea of ‘enrichment’ – enabling animals to experience natural behaviours by providing toys and habitats to allow them to do so – started off in zoos. Animals in captivity can easily become bored, but allowing them to practice behaviours like hunting, climbing, foraging and playing can improve their lives drastically. Food enrichment for dogs can be very beneficial and the same is true of our domestic cats.

In 2016, a paper was published in a veterinary journal highlighting the importance of puzzle feeders for cats, and we vets are now recommending puzzle feeders to pet parents for a range of behavioural problems, even in healthy cats.

• The best dry cat foods: King of cat kibble revealed
• The best wet cat food: From daily dishes to tasty treats
• Best kitten food: Six types to feed your new furry feline friend

What is a puzzle feeder toy?

Puzzle feeders are devices that release food once the cat has figured out the ‘puzzle’. They can be as simple and cheap as an egg carton that needs to be knocked around to release all the kibble, or as complex as a plastic box with pieces that slide back and forth to reveal biscuits. Some puzzle feeders for cats are designed for wet food, but most are designed for dry food. There are many cat puzzle feeder toys on the market, and they are often rated in terms of difficulty. It’s a good idea to get several – the point is to challenge your cat without frustrating them, so moving up through the difficulty levels rather than going straight for the hardest is important. In addition, rotating the puzzle feeders can keep each one seeming new rather than becoming boring.

Reasons why you should use a puzzle feeder toy for your cat

We’ve already said it’s important for your cat to be able to express his instincts. This is particularly true if you have an indoor cat who isn’t otherwise able to hunt and forage for food. Here are some of the reasons that a puzzle feeder might benefit your cat. 

Puzzle feeders keep your cats ‘fuller for longer’

If you have a greedy cat that constantly pesters for food, a puzzle feeder might be a good idea. Just as in humans, slowing down your cat’s eating is a good way to help them recognise that they’re feeling full. They’ll also be less likely to pester you for food if there’s food remaining in their puzzle feeder!

Cat puzzle feeder toys can help reduce stress and anxiety

Many cats living in our homes suffer from hidden stress and anxiety. Cats, being prey animals, are scared of things that change in their environment, like moving furniture, new people, and changing routines. Since we can’t always avoid these changes, helping cats by giving them coping mechanisms is important. Puzzle feeding toys are one of a range of changes you can implement to help cats cope with stress.

Puzzle feeders can help to reduce fighting amongst cats

Cats are naturally solitary creatures and can dislike being kept together. Whilst cat-cat bullying is often too subtle for owners to recognise, some cats will show obvious aggression to one another expressed as hissing and fighting. Puzzle feeders have been used as part of an enrichment plan to reduce cat fights in the home. The food reward from using the feeder can even help to positively reinforce good, co-operative behaviours in cats.

Toys increase activity to keep your cat slim and trim

Obesity is a growing problem in cats, currently affecting nearly 50% of our domestic pets. It can lead to health problems such as arthritis and diabetes, severely affecting cat welfare. Puzzle feeders not only increase satiety, they also increase activity. Every time your cat moves, he expends calories, which – over time – will help to encourage weight loss.

Cat puzzle toys might hold off feline dementia

Feline dementia (cognitive dysfunction) is fairly common in elderly cats. Affected cats may cry more than usual, pace, and be noisy at night because their sleep patterns change. They may not recognise their owners or may develop a close attachment to them due to anxiety. As with humans, it’s thought that keeping a cat mentally active in their old age can stimulate the growth of new neurons in the brain and slow the spread of dementia. Food puzzles can help to stimulate your cat mentally.

Puzzle feeders can help to decrease behavioural problems in cats

It’s hard to say how many abnormal behaviours come from boredom, but it’s thought to be a lot. Just as with children, keeping cats busy and tired is the best way to keep them out of trouble! In the wild, cats would spend a large amount of their time hunting for food. In our homes, they can finish a bowl of food in seconds, leaving the rest of the day disappointingly empty! One study suggested an improvement in behaviours such as fear aggression, noise phobia, and boisterous play.

Using a puzzle feeder may reduce regurgitation in cats

Some cats ‘scarf and barf’, the non-technical term for eating their food too quickly and bringing it straight back up again. This is particularly true of cats fed only once a day, and cats on wet food. If your cat regularly vomits or regurgitates their food straight after eating, slowing them down can help. A puzzle feeder is a great way to slow your cat’s eating down to give their stomach a chance to receive the food in more normal quantities.

Puzzle feeders may help cats with urine problems

Urinating outside of the litter tray can be for a number of reasons, but the most common is anxiety. This anxiety can also lead to feline idiopathic cystitis, which can cause blood in your cat’s pee and uncomfortable urination. Puzzle feeders can be used as a part of an enrichment plan to improve your cat’s anxiety and reduce urination problems.

Puzzle feeders can reduce spraying and scratching of furniture

Spraying is a marking behaviour – it’s a way to mark territory to warn other cats to stay away. Scratching furniture also works to tell other cats whose house this is. When cats are worried about their territory due to new cats in the neighbourhood or other cats in the house, marking behaviours can increase. Food puzzles help your cat to feel more in control of his life and territory, as well as improving mood and reducing anxiety.

Puzzle feeder toys are great for cats

Keeping your cat happy is a pet parent’s most important job. There are lots of benefits to using cat puzzle feeder toys in cats, from keeping them physically fit to helping protect their brain from ageing. As a vet, I recommend getting a range of food puzzle toys for cats.

Looking to get creative in a way that will benefit both you and your feline friend? These adorable DIY cat toys will save you money and keep your kitty entertained at the same time. 

The Catit Senses 2.0 Super Circuit is an interactive ball track for your own little fur balls to bat around and chase. Composed of a number of parts that can be shaped into over 100 different layouts, with a solid white base with translucent plastic peek-a-boo covers that act to form the track and provide visibility for kitty hunters. 

This Super Circuit can be built to a large or small size depending on your floor space, and it’s even made to fit around furniture. It’s one of the best interactive cat toys out there, particularly useful for indoor-cat owners to make sure that their kitties are getting enough exercise while also stimulating their tiny brains (the cat’s brains, not the owners – although it is fun to watch!). There's even more options for keeping you cat amused in our round up of the best cat toys we could find.

• Amuse Your Cat With The Best Catnip Toys
• Best laser toys for cats: great ways to keep your tabby active and entertained
• Catit Play Treat Puzzle review

Catit Senses 2.0 Super Circuit: Features

Perhaps the most useful feature for cat owners is the Catit Senses 2.0 Super Circuit’s flexibility. While it’s comprised of many parts, you don’t need to use them all – so the circuit itself can be made to fit around your home environment, whether that’s a full length 62cm (24”) circuit or a straight track in an area with a little less space, that’s up to you.  

Catit love to provide flexibility in their products, other Catit products like the older Senses Super Roller Circuit come with the same connectors, so you can join them up and make one larger super ball run for your extra playful kitties. 

The Senses 2.0 range in general is designed to be able to fit in with each other. So the Super Circuit can weave around the Food Tree – designed to turn mealtimes into a jenga-like puzzle, the Wellness Centre – with sensory spaces, the Scratcher – for scratching, and the Grass Garden, for one simple kitty friendly space. It would take up a bit of room, but the full Circuit does that anyway, and it at least pulls together for one cohesive look, which most cat fans, with their array of mismatched kitty toys, will tell you is a plus.

The ball that comes with the Catit Senses 2.0 Super Circuit is hardy enough, and can be removed for knocking around the house.

Catit Senses 2.0 Super Circuit: Performance

We’ll start with the ball that was just mentioned. We found that we had to bat it around a bit in the track before the cats really understood the idea behind it, while they fitfully enjoyed the resulting play and chase. The previous model of the circuit came with a light-up ball that any slight nudge would set off making it far more likely to start some unprompted play.

You can buy a Senses 2.0 Fireball separately, but it’s a little disappointing not to have it with the Super Circuit itself. 

Putting it together is simple enough, though when deconstructing the Circuit to reshape, or put it away, often led to a certain amount of forceful twisting and pulling making it feel like it might break at any moment. It’s important to say that it didn’t break, though, and our rough findings would say that the materials are actually pretty tough.

In the model we played with there were two areas of track where the clearance between the white base and translucent top weren’t quite enough for the ball to travel through comfortably. This means that the ball would stop when it met them, even with a good kitty whack. Though it wasn’t so tight that a cat couldn’t get the ball moving again unaided. 

Our simple solution to this was to stick those bits on the end. The cats themselves seemed to have a great time knocking it about, hitting the ball to and from each other and having a good pounce when it stopped. They got a little bored after a week or so, but that tends to happen with most cat toys and every time we got it back out again after a little break it seemed to inspire the same joy as day one.

Should you buy the Catit Senses 2.0 Super Circuit?

Yes, especially if you’re an indoor cat owner who is out much of the day, or simply doesn’t have the time to be on-call for cat play, then the Catit Senses 2.0 Super Circuit is a great toy. It doesn’t break the bank and there’s tons of enjoyment to be had, especially with multiple cats all playing together.

You’ll need to have it on regular rotation with your other toys for the full effectiveness and you might want to pick up a Senses 2.0 Fireball for the full effect, but the extra stimulation (and fun) it brings into your cat's life is well worth it.

The Catit Senses 2.0 Ball Dome has been designed with two factors in mind: to help encourage and develop your cat’s hunting instincts, and to provide them with something to play with solo. Considering the former is important in maintaining their cognitive functions, and the latter means you can leave the house without worrying about them taking out their boredom on your armchair or carpet, we’d consider these to both be admirable aims. Essentially it consists of a plastic container with a ball, for which your cat can reach inside to bat it around. To find out more, read on…

• Best cat toys: Keep your cat active and amused
• 10 best interactive cat toys
• Best automatic laser cat toys: Six low-effort ways to keep them captivated

Catit Senses 2.0 Ball Dome: Features

As we’ve mentioned, the primary method of play for this is via your cat reaching inside the generously proportioned holes at the top of the dome, allowing them to bat around the ball inside.

While it doesn’t necessarily need buttons to operate it, we recommend you do so, as with them present, the more fun aspects of the Catit Senses 2.0 Ball Dome come into play. When batteries are included, it turns on a motion sensor that comes into play when your cat walks nearby. This in turn causes the plate within the dome to revolve, making the ball move and (hopefully) gaining your cat’s attention.

From here, your cat can play until their heart’s content. They prefer moving targets, as you will no doubt realise, and will get hours of fun out of it. When they get bored, the device will automatically power down after a period of inactivity. A few hours later, when they walk past it the same thing happens, and the fun will start all over again. Plenty of engagement is to be had for all with this interactive cat toy, and it doesn’t even take up too much space.

As well as being a great product on its own basis, Catit products are designed with a similar-looking aesthetic, allowing them to slot together and over time form their own cat theme park of sorts. We particularly recommend the Catit Play Treat Puzzle to go with it, so they can eat (slowly) after a workout.

It’s perfectly fine to just go with the Cat Dome though. Easy to set up and perfectly safe, it’s ideal for your stay-at-home cat.

Catit Senses 2.0 Ball Dome: Performance 

When tested out on this writer’s own two moggies, we can report that it works just as well as the manufacturer claims. Well, almost.

The initial burst of activity from the Dome upon one of them encroaching on its territory definitely came as a surprise to the cat in question. Once he overcame his natural suspicion, however, and gave it a go, then all bets were off. He would not be distracted, and had a whale of a time. His twin sister had a similar amount of fun.

Even when I haven’t changed the batteries, that hasn’t put them off from playing with it. Sure, with the automated interactivity taken out of the equation they naturally use it less - as evidenced by me occasionally having to put the ball back in the dome.

This, really, is the only issue I’ve found with it. It’s not the heaviest, and while my girl cat is capable of using it without knocking it over, I can’t say the same for her (physically) bigger brother. I can’t say for certain which one managed to get the ball out of the dome, but considering they both have a habit of improbable Houdini acts (he regularly finds himself on high surfaces that he definitely can’t climb high enough to reach, and she once found her way out of a supposedly escape-proof bodysuit), I’ll hedge my bets.

It’s not that much of an issue though, as the ball is perfectly harmless. It’s advertised as BPA-free, as well as being paw friendly, so from a safety standpoint there’s nothing to worry about.

Should you buy the Catit Senses 2.0 Cat Dome?

If you would like to leave the house knowing that your cat won’t be bored, or want to encourage their natural behaviour, then this is definitely something you should consider buying. It’s perfectly safe, doesn’t take up too much space, won’t break the bank, and definitely can’t be accused of misleading advertising. By now we’ve learned to have a lot of confidence in Catit’s products, and it’s great to have this validated. Sure, they’ll likely get bored of it after a while, but this hasn’t happened to ours yet, leaving us satisfied that for the price, its likely lifespan will make it worth your while.

Looking for the best cat toy on the market? The Amazon Basics Cat Condo Tree Tower With Hammock Bed and Scratching Post is right here. Say goodbye to the same old style of scratching posts and the usual boring beds, and hello to this interactive playhouse that brings the best of treetop living into the great indoors. They’ll be no more clawing at your precious carpets, curtains, and furniture, and zero fur on your sofa thanks to this all-in-one design that will have cats scratching, scaling, and sweet-dreaming to their heart's content.

If you’re looking for more ideas on keeping your cat amused, try our buying guide to the best cat toys or take a look at our list of the 10 best interactive cat toys.

Amazon Basics Cat Condo Tree Tower With Hammock Bed and Scratching Post: Features

When it comes to budget-buys, cat furniture doesn’t come much better than this. Unlike other popular and higher-priced models, such as the AmazonBasics Extra Large Cat Scratching Post Tree Tower With Bed and the AllPets Solutions Jumbo Scratcher Activity Centre, you’re well and truly getting more for less here.

The dual scratching posts and plush hammock, provide your cat with a comfortable place to play and relax and the choice of a grey or beige color scheme means it will blend in with just about any household design, making this tower a win-win for both you and your fur baby.

We love the addition of the hammock, a cool feature that allows your cat to sleep raised off the ground like they would in the wild, and adding in not one but two scratching posts attached to a solid base makes this a stable and durable design.

The scratching posts are made with natural rough jute fiber, which is great for keeping your cats' nails in tip-top shape, and throw in a hanging ball that comes with interchangeable strings for different kinds of play, and you’ve got yourself a fun-house that will keep your cats' claws so content that they won’t have time to think about attacking your furniture. 

We’re really clutching at that jute fibre to come up with any drawbacks to this cat-equivalent of five-star luxury living, but if we had to pick something then this product can have quite a strong smell when it's first unpacked. Nothing a few hours of fresh air won’t fix, but worth being mindful of if you prefer your house smelling more like jasmine and less like jute.

Also read:
• Five Best Toys For Indoor Cats
• Amuse Your Cat With The Best Catnip Toys
• Catit Play Treat Puzzle review

Amazon Basics Cat Condo Tree Tower With Hammock Bed and Scratching Post: User reviews 

Multiple pet parents have turned to this product after their picky cats refused to play nice with other more expensive alternatives. One owner writes that “my cat adopted this straight away and she is usually fussy about new scratchers, she loves to snuggle in it” while another reviewer states that their usually hesitant cat has decided that this hammock is “his favourite thing in the whole wide world, even more than food.”

It’s also proved to be a massive hit with those whose four-legged feline friends have less of a placid and delicate disposition and are more of a tornado trainwreck type who enjoy tearing up the furniture, with one pet parent writing, “I've purchased several different scratching posts for our cat in an attempt to get him to stop tearing up our furniture but he never pays any attention to them at all. Not even when I cover them in catnip. He prefers the corners of the couch. Until we purchased this scratching post. It took him all of 5 minutes to warm up to it and now it's his favorite thing.” That comment says it better than we ever could. 

Out of 1,056 reviews on Amazon, 83% give this product five stars and 10% give it four, which speaks volumes about how much both cats and their owners love this product. If you’re wondering what the drawbacks are to this tree tower and hammock we did some digging but could only find one negative review, which was less about the product itself and more a shipping error that resulted in it arriving without some key parts. We’ve got to say that’s a pretty impressive ratio of positive to negative comments. 

Should you buy the Amazon Basics Cat Condo Tree Tower With Hammock Bed and Scratching Post?

If your cat has champagne tastes but you’re on a beer budget then you’ve probably already guessed that it’s a massive yes from us when it comes to purchasing this item. Your kitty gets to enjoy a taste of luxurious living and you get to save yourself some money over comparable products on the market that often do less but cost more.

The one thing we would say is that if you have the cat world equivalent of heavyweight boxers George Foreman or Lennox Lewis padding the floors of your palace then you may want to consider a bigger bed with more room for your hulk to spread out on those lazy days.

But that aside, this is a bargain offering from Amazon that will keep a smile on your cat’s dial seven days a week. 

Don’t forget to take a look at our round up of the best cat toys for more ideas on feline play time.

Knowing which cat toys are best is a tricky proposition, what with there being so many thousands of products out there, of varying quality. But it's a decision that needs to be made: cats are very sociable, and need to be played with regularly and kept engaged to keep them happy.

Things like cat scratching posts or the best automated cat toys can make all the difference to your furry feline. 

At the same time, they can be very picky, who has spent loads on an epic-sized cat tower, only to see their cat ignore it in favor of the box it came in, can testify. Research has shown that cats vary hugely in their preferences – both in terms of the types of toy they prefer, and how long they spend playing with it. 

To a degree, working out your cat's preferred kind of toy is a case of trial and error, but these tips should help you along. You can also read our guide to the best cat toys for additional paws for thought…

• 10 best interactive cat toys
• Five best toys for indoor cats
• Amuse your cat with the best catnip toys

Recreate the hunt

Despite living alongside us for centuries, cats still have strong hunting instincts. Watch a litter of kittens at play and you’ll see them practicing their stalking, jumping, pouncing and catching skills. 

According to Cats Protection, “the drive to hunt is not because they are hungry, but because hunting activity – the stalk, pounce, play and kill – releases feel-good hormones called endorphins. The best games encourage cats to stalk, pounce, chase and bat objects with a paw in a safe way”.

While there’s no guarantee a cat will like a new toy, you’ll probably have the most success with toys that look like prey or mimic a small animal’s movements. Materials such as feathers, wool or synthetic fur might help a cat to get in the zone and imagine it’s out hunting for food. 

For other cats, a squeaker or a material that produces a crinkling sound may be more effective. Some cats will chase anything moving on the end of a string, no matter what it looks or sounds like.

Try out a few different toys and a variety of ways of moving them to pinpoint exactly what it is that excites your cat. You can use homemade toys for this experiment before you spend money on anything else (you may even find that you’ve created the perfect toy for your cat and don’t need to go shopping). 

Once you’ve figured out how to bring out their inner hunter, you’ll have a better idea of the types of toy to look out for. 

Toys you can play with together are great for bonding and for encouraging as much movement as possible, but you won’t always be in the house when your cat wants to play. It’s worth finding a couple of toys that are safe to be left out without supervision and get your cat practicing pouncing and batting on their own. 

Balls and simple plastic or wooden puzzle toys will present enough of a challenge to keep them entertained without the risk of any parts being chewed or shredded. Puzzles can often be stocked with a handful of treats too, letting your cat have a snack while you’re out and making the game even more enticing.

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Safety first

Safety is just as important as fun when buying a new cat toy. All the materials and attachments should be safe for cats, and the toy should be constructed well so none of the components pose a choking risk. Don’t be dazzled by the look of a toy – fluffy bits and sequins might make a product appealing, but there’s a chance your cat will get their claws caught or accidentally ingest a small part if it comes off. 

Shopping in-store allows you to take a closer look at a toy’s construction. Make sure the toy is an appropriate size for your cat, inspect the materials to assess their quality and tug components to check they’re securely attached. 

Looking for cat toys online offers you a huge amount more choice, but makes it harder to check what you’re buying. Be wary of bargain sites or brand names you’re not familiar with. They may be completely legitimate, but there are also sites that use photos of other companies’ products to sell cheaper, poorly made versions. 

Check reviews – if other customers say a toy was poor quality, or that parts fell off during play, avoid it and be wary of the seller. This is important even if you’re shopping with a familiar brand; sometimes there are faults or mistakes in a toy’s production, making a product from an otherwise trustworthy company dangerous. 

When a new toy arrives, be sure to carry out the same checks you would in a store. If anything about the item seems off or sub-standard, it’s best to send it back. Inspect the toy again after your cat has played with it for the first time to make sure nothing has broken or come loose.

Try something new

On some occasions, the best toy for your cat is simply the one that’s unlike anything else they have. Cats can easily lose interest in toys easily, to keeping a level of variety is important.

Keep an eye out for toys with some you know your cat goes for – like a noise or particular theme. One example: if your cat used to love a fishing-pole toy, but has lost interest, roll a ball across the floor, or maybe even utilize a motorized toy. 

But there's no need to get them a new toy every week. Once you have a collection, there's a simple of way of making sure they don't get bored: don't let them play with them all at once.

Try rotating the toys they have on offer every few days. This keeps playtime exciting, and allows you to introduce a brand-new one only when you feel like treating them or an existing toy is reaching the end of its life. 

You know best

Hopefully, this advice has pointed you in the right direction in your search for the perfect cat toy. Remember; no one knows your cat like you do – if something catches your eye and you have a feeling they will like it, trust your instinct. 

Find toys you both enjoy playing with and getting your cat active will never feel like a chore. Our list of the five best toys for indoor cats will give you some more ideas for feline fun.

References:

• Social interaction, food, scent or toys? A formal assessment of domestic pet and shelter cats