Toys for cats: why they are needed and how to choose them correctly

Mouse

Such a toy can be mechanical or static. The material from which this toy is made can be completely varied. There are mice made of: textiles, rubber, plastic, sisal, etc. Cats love to chase small mice, but you should take into account the fact that some furry cats are afraid of wind-up mice. Therefore, when purchasing such fun, you should take into account the individual characteristics of the cat.

Useful tips

Try not to buy cat toys at spontaneous markets, only in specialized stores:

• as an option, make toys with your own hands;
• Once a week, mandatory inspection and washing of products; the accumulation of dust, dirt, fleas and ticks does not bode well;
• if the animal is not interested in new clothes, check its well-being; healthy animals are always ready to play;
• Mechanical toys decorated with feathers are especially popular;
• Plush mice, soft fish and balls have always been part of cat life; teasers are also classics of the genre. But they do not keep the animal’s attention for a long time, do not make noise or move, so the priority should be on interactive entertainment. Let the animal jump and move more, this is necessary for the development of skeletal and muscle mass, especially in children.

Total

In order for the toy to bring joy to your pet and not harm its health when purchasing, pay attention to the following points:

• No matter what material the toy is made of, the presence of an odor from the product is unacceptable. Firstly, a strong and unpleasant smell can scare away a cat. Secondly, this indicates low-quality raw materials from which the fun is made, which in turn can negatively affect the health of the fluffy
• too bright, downright poisonous colors can also indicate poor quality of the toy
• If there are feathers, lint, or threads on the toy, be sure to check that they do not come off. If you easily tear off a piece, then you should not take such a toy to your pet, as he may swallow the torn piece, choke, etc.
• Also, you should not buy toys that contain too small parts that the animal can easily reach and swallow.
• Of great importance is the fact how easy and whether it is even possible to wash or clean the toy.

Remember that only high-quality toys will benefit your cat, so don’t be lazy to choose quality ones.

Based on all of the above, we can conclude that play is the key to the physical, mental and emotional health of the purr. Although only purrs? I'll go play with my cat.

PS What toys do you have for cats at home?

Petstages Energize Boomerang

This cheerful and bright toy will become a favorite pastime for adult cats. Inside the toy is filled with catnip, without any harmful impurities. The toy is 16 cm long and is ideal for the teeth of an adult cat. The convenient shape in the form of a boomerang allows the cat to hunt it, fight it, jump on it and carry it in its teeth. The cat is attracted by the smell of mint and enjoys playing with the toy.

Pros:

1. Original design;
2. High-quality fill;
3. Cats like it;
4. Affordable price.

Minuses:

1. Sometimes a cat quickly gets bored with a toy.

Simple toys

Fishing rods

These are some of the most popular toys for cats. A fishing rod is a stick, at the end of which there may be feathers, strings, fringe, etc.

Mice

These toys can be mechanical or static. The materials from which mice are made are absolutely varied: textiles, rubber, plastic, sisal. Cats just love to chase little mice, but keep in mind that some purrs are afraid of mice that get wound up.

Balls

Like mice, they are also made from various materials. Balls can be bouncy or not so bouncy, with balls or bells inside. Cats love to play football with them in the truest sense of the word.

For lazy animals, they produce toys made from textiles and filled with catnip to stimulate play activity.

For lazy owners, there are laser toys - flashlights or pointers. The cat will happily run after the point of light. Usually, such laser flashlights come with various attachments that convert the light beam into the outline of the same mouse or some other animal.

There are toys with elastic bands that are designed to hang, for example, on a doorknob. They are a ring that fits on the handle. The ring has long elastic bands with small soft toys attached. Such a toy has at least two advantages: firstly, it will not roll too far, and secondly, it will not break anything or injure the animal itself.

There are special stands made of textile or sisal that combine two in one - a toy and a scratching post. And the whole point is that springs (one or several) are attached to such a stand, on top of which are placed toys (mice, balls, etc.). An angry pet can sharpen its claws at the same time.

We studied the pet products market , looked at the coolest models of cat toys, and got acquainted with their characteristics and price range. Based on this, a small rating was compiled. We hope that it will help you choose the most interesting and useful toy for your pet.

Fishing rod

This type of cat toy is one of the most popular. A fishing rod is usually called an elongated lightweight stick, at the tip of which a string, one or more feathers, fringe, etc. can be attached. The main condition is the safety of the pet in case it tries to feast on the toy on the tip of the fishing rod.

What should you pay attention to?

• paint - there should be a minimum of it, we don’t know what the paint is made of;
• the product must be safe - ribbons, open foam rubber, foil and similar fragments can be torn by cats and accidentally swallowed;
• take into account the animal’s age and dimensions;
• it is necessary to take into account the character of the furry pet, a passive animal is unlikely to be interested in a teaser toy, it is better to buy a soft toy, they will find a common language with it;
• you need to buy only in specialized stores where product control is possible;
• Products must have a manufacturer's label. indicating the absence of phenol and phthalates;
• complete absence of pungent odors, do not think that the product will dissipate, smelling chemicals, the cat will bypass the purchase;
• It is advisable to buy several types of toys for kittens so that the furry capricious one does not quickly get tired of the monotonous mouse or ball.

Wobbler Petstages Track Hide&Seek

This toy is a three in one. This combines an exciting track, a scratching post with catnip and two teasers: a ball with a bell and a fluffy with a feather. The cat will happily take toys out of the track and sharpen its claws on the scratching post. The smell of mint attracts cats. The model is made in the form of a tumbler that rolls from side to side. The toy is large enough and will not get lost.

Pros:

1. Combines three games at once;
2. Will not roll under furniture;
3. Cats like it;
4. Cats are attracted to the smell of mint.

Trixie Running Mouse

This running mouse toy is battery operated. Cats usually love to chase and hunt, so they will love this toy. Develops the hunting instinct in cats and captivates your pet for a long time. The toy is made of soft, wear-resistant plush. The toy can move in any direction.

Pros:

1. Cats actively run after the mouse;
2. Affordable price;
3. A good imitation of a real mouse.
4. High quality material;
5. Durability.

Top best toys for 2021

For kittens

Funny toys for furry pets are unique due to their design without additions of small parts. Many of them are attractive even to mature adults.

Teaser with a ball and 6 Beeztees pompoms

The most advantageous position is occupied, at first glance, by a simple toy. It consists of a plastic stick with a small ball and fur pom-poms. The device promotes the development of the predatory instinct, the release of accumulated adrenaline and overall development in general. Spending time together captivates and establishes contact between the owner and his animal. It’s not difficult to make a teaser yourself. But it’s worth considering that purchased entertainment has a more decent appearance and will last much longer.

At first glance, a plastic stick with a ball and fur additions does not represent anything special, but pets are delighted with this game. Time passes unnoticed during this activity. All models are presented in bright colors and made of high quality materials.

Teaser with a ball and 6 Beeztees pompoms

Advantages:

• close interaction with people;
• high quality;
• will captivate any kitten.

Flaws:

• not long service life.

Trixie Running Mouse

Another impressive toy is the Running Mouse. It is made of plush, pleasant to the touch, and operates on ordinary batteries. The main criterion is an affordable price for simulating real mouse running. Referring to customer reviews, we can conclude that the exciting toy is not killable. The vibrations resemble a heartbeat, thus arousing great interest among the cat family.

All cats' favorite pastimes are hunting and chasing, so this toy will not leave them indifferent. This activity develops the hunting instinct and can be captivating for quite a long period. The wear-resistant plush product can move in any direction.

Trixie Running Mouse

Advantages:

• affordable pricing policy;
• makes you actively move;
• all reviews are positive.

Flaws:

• not identified.

For adult cats

Wobbler Petstages Track Hide&Seek

In comparison with other examples of the review, the Hide&Seek Wobbler consists of 3 parts. First of all, this is an active track, then a cardboard device for claws with mint and a ball with fluff and feathers. The wobbler is similar to a Soviet tumbler, which tilts in different directions. The mint trail always attracts cats.

Pets manage to get the textile ball in a fairly short period of time. For the owners, observing the removal of toys from the cardboard track is also a pleasure. The soft textile product is pleasant to the touch and is comfortable for cats to interact with.

Wobbler Petstages Track Hide&Seek

Advantages:

• not able to get lost in the apartment;
• 3 in one toy;
• accentuates the mint effect.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Laser pointer for cats VIPet

It is impossible to ignore a laser pointer. It makes it possible to play with the kitten without even getting up from the couch. Kittens can continuously catch a bright point that glows. Adult pets also like this pointer. During active play, the kitten may become overexcited. Regarding the quality of the laser, there is no doubt about it. Batteries are always included.

Laser pointer for cats VIPet

Advantages:

• Suitable for all domestic cats;
• always relevant;
• batteries included.

Flaws:

• the game can only be played with the owner.

On AliExpress

Let's find out what toys for cats that can be found in the assortment on the AliExpress website. It is not easy to choose the highest quality ones, as it is important to know about certain nuances. Experts paid special attention to the number of comments and sales, customer reviews and manufacturer popularity.

VKTECH Tunnel with Balls

The very first toy in the proposed top, which has many features. It is compact and easy to unfold; there are no difficulties when washing or moving it. For pets who like to play with balls, this will be a great find. The bright colors of the device are another main advantage. You can choose orange, purple or yellow tunnels.

Cats and cats frolic inside the equipment, run out, hide or roll balls (one of them is soft, the other has a bell attached). The toy, which has become interesting for many, is made of durable material. There are simply no negative reviews.

The product can be purchased at an affordable price. A large selection of unique shades and reliable material delight many buyers. The pets are delighted with the wonderful new thing. A wonderful time is guaranteed!

VKTECH Tunnel with Balls

Advantages:

• bright colors;
• high quality;
• made of strong material.

Flaws:

• not detected.

Juguetes Para Gatos Katten Speelgoed

An honorable second place is occupied by a product that is a small caged ball with metal bars and a mouse inside. Rolling on a hard surface, the ball rattles loudly, which arouses the curiosity of the pet. This is an ideal choice for those of them who love to have fun alone and are shy around strangers.

If there is still a need for their attention, you can attach the ball with a rope and play with the cat. In any case, there is no pungent odor, so allergic reactions will not occur.

You don't have to worry about the presence of small parts. However, judging by some comments, animals do not always pay attention to the metal ball, so sometimes you have to take out the artificial mouse.

There is only one drawback: sometimes during gameplay the lint separates from the toy. The device with enviable activity is recommended by users and provides animals with an unforgettable experience.

Juguetes Para Gatos Katten Speelgoed

Advantages:

• universal;
• excellent quality;
• good price.

Flaws:

• the lint is separated from the toy.

XIAXIANG Ball Disc

First of all, it should be noted that this interesting device is made of environmentally friendly material and is a spiral with several balls. It is absolutely safe for your pet and is non-toxic.

Suitable for both single and team games. Inside the balls there are bells that attract the cat's attention and force it to be active. You can place a bowl of food nearby to make the process more fun and to help you develop your training skills faster.

The sole of the product does not slip, in addition, you can choose the shade you like. The most commonly used ones are green, yellow, scarlet, blue, orange. The uniqueness and safety of use is proven by many positive user reviews. The lifespan of the toy is quite long, the design is unique and inimitable, and the cost is affordable. This has been noted repeatedly by consumers.

XIAXIANG Ball Disc

Advantages:

• various shades;
• uniqueness and safety;
• democratic price.

Flaws:

• not detected.

Pet soft Catnip Toys

One of the most popular products for pets, who always mistake a plush fish for a real one. Products from Chinese manufacturers quickly became popular among consumers.

There were quite a lot of orders, and now the product does not lose its relevance. You can give preference to any shapes and colors. The cost will depend on the size of the device chosen.

Judging by the positive reviews, cats really like the device. The material used is high quality, there is no strong smell. There are no sound signals to indicate the start or end of the entertainment, but this is considered a minor drawback.

Pet soft Catnip Toys

Advantages:

• quality material;
• no pungent odor;
• will captivate any kitten.

Flaws:

• There are no sound signals about the start and end of entertainment.

Poisonous paints, questionable materials? Immediately no!

Cats see colors much worse than humans. Bright toys are made with one purpose - to lure a person. Your Murzik doesn’t care whether his mouse is red or blue - but you will spend time choosing, and you will probably choose the brighter (and more expensive) one. This is our human parameter - but remember, the animal is not interested in this parameter.

Bright toy colors may indicate that unsafe dyes have been used. The cat puts everything into its mouth, and after swallowing a few threads, it can become poisoned. Of course, it is unlikely that she will die from this, but an upset stomach in a pet is also very undesirable.

If you are unsure whether a toy is safe, simply put it aside.

Pay attention to your kitten's features

Knowing your pet's character, habits, desires, and physical capabilities, you will raise your pet. which will deliver only positive emotions to everyone living nearby. Often, cats tear up upholstered furniture, knowing this feature, it is necessary to take appropriate measures so that the cat avoids punishment. It is necessary to buy a special drape, show it and unobtrusively accustom the animal to such a household item. So, step by step, you can teach your furry child to use household items and not do dirty tricks.

By temperament, furry cats can be active or passive, constantly contemplating individuals; in this case, cat toys should be different. In all cases, let a cat plush toy be nearby; it will brighten up your leisure time when the owners are not at home.

Laser pointers

Gone are the days when cat owners were content with paper bows tied to a string. New technologies have taken their place.

Laser pointers purchased from office supply stores have quickly become a favorite of cat owners. And this is not at all surprising: you can play with an animal while sitting on the sofa. You just need to press the button and enjoy watching the cat unsuccessfully try to catch the red light.

In this failure lies the main danger.

In order for the game not to harm the animal, the prey must be caught sooner or later. If this does not happen, the pet experiences dissonance.

The hunting program laid down at the genetic level goes astray. The result is a nervous disorder, which can be expressed in changes in behavior and the appearance of habits that are unpleasant for the owners. For example, their favorite shoes can turn into a new cat litter box.

Another important point is that the laser is unsafe for the retina of the eye. Playing with a pointer can lead to partial or complete loss of your cat's vision. So the pleasure of laughing at funny jumps is worth a lot.

Customer reviews about cat toys

Rodion: “I always tried to buy the best for my pets. As soon as our cat had offspring, I began looking for educational toys for kittens. I read a bunch of reviews on the Internet and chose “Mouse in a Trap” for my kittens. It turned out that toys for animals are the same as toys for children. Kittens, like children, may fall in love with a new toy and spend all their time with it, or they may forget and not approach it again. This is what happened to me too. We played the first day and gave up.”

Svetlana: “I am often away from home for work. There are business trips for several days. My friends recommended that I buy a Petcube video baby monitor for such cases. When I found out how much this useful device costs, I wanted to refuse the purchase, but I bought it anyway. I've been using it for a year now and haven't regretted the money spent. I am always in touch with my pet, and she has become more comfortable with our separation.”

Diana: “We tried almost all the popular and advertised cat toys with our pets. What can I say. Most of them are one-time toys. Bought, played and forgotten. My cats only play with different mice all the time. They drag them around the house, throw them, catch them. The simplest toys, but the most beloved.”

Imagine that the cat is a two-year-old child

You will never buy a toy for a small child that has small parts that come off easily, because you know that the child will pull the toy into his mouth, the part will come off, he will swallow it, and then whatever happens. Either he will suffocate or injure his esophagus... You never know.

A cat is the same child. She pulls any toy into her mouth, while hammering it with her paws so much that not a single part will last long. So watch carefully!

There should not be various small nonsense intended for decoration - all these rhinestones, small feathers, beads. Yes, it's beautiful - for you! But the cat doesn’t care whether it’s beautiful or not. But she will definitely swallow the beads.

Mazes and puzzles

Educational toys are becoming increasingly popular among cat lovers. These are labyrinths and puzzles with balls hidden inside, multi-level tracks, at the end of which the animal expects a prize: a mouse, a catnip ball, or some other thing.

Such toys can occupy a cat's attention for a long time. This is a great way to entertain the animal while the owner is at work. But here, too, an important condition must be met - production must eventually become available.

The option with labyrinths and puzzles, in which the ball is locked tightly and the cat can only chase it inside without a chance to get it, is harmful to the mental health of the pet.

By the way, you can make such attractive toys yourself. For example, from cardboard boxes, cutting several holes in them into which a paw can fit. And cut plastic bottles connected with tape make an excellent labyrinth.

How to choose cat toys

1. Based on the animal's preferences. Some cats like to chase a ball or ball, others are more amused by all kinds of “teases”.
2. Assess the safety of the toy. It should be made of environmentally friendly material and not have parts that come off easily.
3. Buy some toys. Choose a variety of items so your cat has a choice.
4. Pay attention to multifunctional models with additional functions. For example, scratching toys, massage toys, developmental complexes.

No money to buy? Read the article on how to make toys for cats with your own hands.