If you have cats, you know that active play is a great way for your furry companions to get the exercise and mental stimulation needed to maintain their physical and emotional health. But how do you choose the best toys for your feline friends? Let’s take a look at some of the year’s best cat toys and potential stocking stuffers.
Cat Toys Under $10
Cat Dancer: The Original Interactive Cat Toy. If you’re looking for an inexpensive, low-tech toy that will keep your cats engaged and amused, Cat Dancer has the answer. Made from sturdy wire and cardboard, the Cat Dancer is a safe and easy-to-use cat toy that triggers your cat’s hunting and playing instincts. Best of all—Cat Dancer needs no batteries or wires. Keep it on a side table or nightstand and you’ll be ready whenever your cat needs some playtime. Starts at $1.99.
SmartyKat Chickadee Chirp. Cats will get hours of enjoyment playing with this realistic-sounding chickadee. A touch of your cat’s paw triggers the sound, and stimulates your pet’s natural hunting instincts. Durable construction and catnip stuffing mean your cat will never tire of this engaging toy. Available with pink, green, ort orange wings. Best of all, the catnip pouch is refillable! Under $5.
Bergan Turbo Scratcher Cat Toy. Part scratching pad, part interactive chase toy, the Turbo Scratcher is ideal for cats who don’t have a lot of play room. The ball fits easily into the circular track and can be filled with catnip to keep your cat mesmerized. The scratch pad helps prevent furniture damage, and pads can be replaced as they wear. Several colors are available. Under $10.
Petstages Cat Tracks Cat Toy. Your cat will enjoy three tiers of fun with this charming interactive toy. The brightly colored balls roll and spin to stimulate your cat’s natural hunting instincts. And with three tiers, there’s room for several cats to work out their sillies. The Cat Tracks toy features sturdy construction and a non-slip base. No batteries or electronics. Under $10.
OurPets Play-n-Squeak “Twice the Mice” Cat Toy. Nobody wants a house full of real mice, but these lifelike electronic toys will provide all the stimulation and exercise your cats need. Comes with two mice, each containing a long-life battery and catnip to help keep your pets engaged. Your cats will enjoy endless hours of play, stalking and chasing these nearly indestructible toys. Play-n-Squeak mice even make realistic mouse sounds! A great way to keep cats mentally and physically agile. Under $10.
Cat Toys Under $25
Pawaboo Cat Toy with Running Mouse. Imagine a wild game of “whack-a-mole” for your cat, and you’ll get the idea behind this engaging electronic toy. The mouse will play hide and seek with your cat, simulating real prey movement and challenging your pet’s instincts and reflexes. Pawaboo feature 2 speed settings and durable plastic construction. Requires 3 AA batteries (not included). Retails $22.99.
Friends Forever Interactive Laser Cat Toy. What cat toy list would be complete without at least one laser pointer? Well, this one takes the prize with a no-slip base and 3 adjustable speeds that mimic erratic prey movements. The spinning tower can project the laser beam in a 360º arc to broaden your pet’s play area. Auto timer sets to 15-minute play intervals. Takes 3 AA batteries (no wall plug). Retails $23.99.
Fortunately, there are a wide variety of cat toys to choose from, and each year seems to produce an array of new toys to entice and entertain your cat. We hope this quick list gives you some fun gift ideas for your feline friends this holiday season.
Cecily Kellogg is a pet lover who definitely has crazy cat lady leanings. Her pets are all shelter rescues, including the dog, who is scared of the cats. She spent eight years working as a Veterinary Technician before becoming a writer. Today she writes all over the web, including here at Figo.
