Cats are known for being picky—especially when it comes to playtime. One day your feline friend might be pouncing on a string like it's their mortal enemy, and the next, they're ignoring the same toy like it doesn’t exist. So how can you, as a loving cat parent, ensure you’re choosing the toys your cat will actually play with?
Whether you’re a first-time cat owner or a seasoned feline enthusiast, picking the right playthings is more of an art than a science. But understanding your cat’s personality, energy level, and natural instincts can lead to playtime success.
Let’s dive into how to pick toys your cat will adore—and actually use!
Why Play Is Crucial for Cats
Before choosing the right toys, it’s important to understand why play matters:
- Exercise: Toys encourage physical activity, helping cats burn off energy and maintain a healthy weight.
- Mental stimulation: Play prevents boredom and mimics natural hunting behaviors.
- Bonding: Interactive play strengthens the bond between you and your pet.
- Stress relief: Play reduces anxiety and destructive behavior, especially in indoor cats.
1. Understand Your Cat’s Personality
Every cat is different. Some are energetic hunters while others are laid-back observers. Here’s how personality influences toy choice:
- Active cats love chase toys like feather wands and laser pointers.
- Shy cats may prefer toys they can use alone like soft mice or plush kickers.
- Curious cats enjoy puzzle toys or treat dispensers that require problem-solving.
Observe your cat’s behavior. Do they stalk or pounce? Do they prefer solitary or interactive play? Knowing this will guide your shopping list.
2. Mimic the Hunt
Cats are natural predators. The best toys tap into this instinct:
- Feather toys mimic birds in flight.
- Wand toys recreate the motion of small prey.
- Mouse-shaped plushies encourage stalking and pouncing.
- Tunnel toys provide hiding spots like outdoor dens.
Toys that move unpredictably, make noise, or resemble real prey are usually more successful in engaging feline attention.
3. Rotate Their Toy Collection
Just like humans, cats can get bored. One of the best ways to keep things fresh is to rotate their toys weekly:
- Keep 3–4 toys out at a time.
- Store the rest in a bin.
- Swap them out every few days.
This keeps your cat curious and re-engaged with older toys they may have previously ignored.
4. Choose Quality Over Quantity
You don’t need dozens of toys. A few high-quality, engaging items are far better than a basket full of ignored options. Look for:
- Safe materials (non-toxic, no small parts)
- Durable design for aggressive players
- Easy-to-clean toys
If your cat tends to chew, avoid toys with strings or feathers that can be easily swallowed.
5. Experiment With Different Textures and Sounds
Cats are sensory creatures. Different toys stimulate different senses:
- Crinkle toys appeal to cats who love sound.
- Catnip toys excite cats who react to the herb.
- Rattling balls simulate the noise of prey.
- Textured fabrics like burlap or faux fur offer variety for biting and clawing.
You might need to try a few types before finding your cat’s favorite.
6. Don’t Ignore DIY Options
Sometimes the simplest toys are the most loved. A cardboard box, paper bag, or ball of foil can offer hours of entertainment. You can also make your own:
- Tie a shoelace to a stick for a homemade wand.
- Fill a sock with catnip and secure it with a knot.
- Cut holes in a cardboard box for a hide-and-seek puzzle.
Just be sure all DIY toys are safe and free from choking hazards.
7. Use Interactive Tech Toys
Today’s pet parents can explore tech-enhanced options:
- Motion-activated laser pointers
- Automated feather spinners
- App-controlled chase toys
These are especially helpful when you’re away and want to keep your cat mentally and physically active.
8. Observe, Learn, and Adapt
If your cat ignores a toy, don’t give up. Consider:
- How it’s introduced — some cats need time to get used to new items.
- When it’s introduced — timing matters. Choose playtime when your cat is most alert (usually early morning or evening).
- Where it’s used — playing in different rooms or spaces can change engagement levels.
And remember: cats can change over time. What doesn’t work now might be a hit later!
9. Involve All the Senses
To truly captivate your cat, aim for multisensory play. Choose toys that engage:
- Sight: moving targets like wand toys
- Sound: bells, crinkles, or chirping sounds
- Smell: catnip, valerian root, or silvervine
- Touch: soft, spiky, or textured materials
The more senses involved, the more likely your cat is to play and return to that toy again and again.
10. Watch for Wear and Tear
Inspect toys regularly. Broken parts can be hazardous. Any toy with ripped seams, frayed strings, or loose beads should be replaced. Safety first!
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the best cat toys—because the best one is the toy your cat actually plays with. The key is to pay attention, be patient, and make playtime part of your daily bonding ritual. A happy cat is an active, stimulated, and entertained cat—and choosing the right toys is a big part of that.
FAQs About Picking the Right Cat Toys
1. Why does my cat get bored of toys so quickly?
Cats love novelty. To keep toys exciting, rotate them weekly and play in different ways or settings.
2. What if my cat doesn’t like catnip?
Not all cats are affected by catnip. Try alternatives like silvervine or valerian root, or opt for sound- or motion-based toys instead.
3. Are expensive cat toys worth it?
Not always. Many cats prefer simple or homemade toys. What matters most is the toy’s ability to engage your cat’s instincts—not the price tag.
4. How do I know which toy my cat prefers?
Observe your cat during play. Do they chase? Bat? Carry toys in their mouth? This gives insight into what styles they enjoy most.
5. What are some signs of a great cat toy?
Great toys are safe, durable, mentally stimulating, and match your cat’s play style. The best cat toys often mimic prey, make noise, or include movement.
Read more: How to Choose the Right Toy for Your Cat's Age?