How to Choose the Right Toy for Your Cat
Cats are natural hunters ā and the right toy taps into that instinct in the best possible way. But not every cat plays the same way. Some are wild and energetic, others are laid-back and selective. This guide helps you find the toys your cat will actually use (and love).
š§ Know Your Cat's Hunting Style
Cats are wired to stalk, pounce, and catch. Most toys work best when they mimic one of these three prey types:
- Bird hunters ā love wand toys, feather teasers, and anything that moves through the air
- Mouse hunters ā prefer small toys they can bat, chase, and carry in their mouth
- Bug hunters ā go crazy for toys that dart and skitter unpredictably across the floor
Watch how your cat plays and you'll quickly figure out which type they are ā most cats have a strong preference!
š± Types of Cat Toys & When to Use Them
Wand & Feather Toys
The gold standard for interactive play. Wand toys let you control the movement, mimicking a bird or insect in flight. They're perfect for bonding with your cat and giving them a real workout. Use these for daily play sessions of 10ā15 minutes.
Best for: high-energy cats, kittens, and cats that need more exercise.
Catnip Toys
About 50ā70% of cats respond to catnip ā and those that do absolutely love it. Catnip toys are great for solo play and can re-energize a cat that's lost interest in their other toys. Rotate catnip toys in and out to keep the effect strong.
Best for: cats that respond to catnip (kittens under 6 months usually don't).
Crinkle & Tunnel Toys
The sound of crinkling material triggers a cat's prey instinct instantly. Tunnels give cats a place to hide, ambush, and zoom through ā perfect for cats that love to stalk. Many cats will use tunnels for napping too!
Best for: playful cats, multi-cat households, and cats that love to hide.
Puzzle & Interactive Toys
Puzzle feeders and interactive toys challenge your cat mentally by making them work for treats or kibble. These are especially valuable for indoor cats who don't get the mental stimulation of hunting outdoors.
Best for: smart cats, food-motivated cats, and cats prone to boredom or overeating.
Small Plush & Kicker Toys
Cats love to grab, bite, and bunny-kick small plush toys. A good kicker toy ā long enough for your cat to wrap their back legs around ā satisfies their instinct to wrestle prey. These are great for solo play.
Best for: cats that love to wrestle and bite.
Balls & Motorized Toys
Simple balls that roll unpredictably are endlessly entertaining for some cats. Motorized toys that move on their own are great for keeping cats entertained when you're busy or away.
Best for: independent cats and households where owners are away during the day.
š¾ Toys by Age
Kittens (under 1 year)
Kittens have boundless energy and need lots of play. Wand toys, small plush toys, and crinkle balls are perfect. Avoid toys with small parts that could be swallowed.
Adult Cats (1ā7 years)
Mix interactive play (wand toys, puzzle feeders) with solo toys (kicker toys, balls) to keep adult cats physically and mentally sharp.
Senior Cats (7+ years)
Older cats still enjoy play but tire more quickly. Shorter, gentler play sessions with soft toys and slow-moving wands are ideal. Puzzle feeders are great for keeping senior minds active.
ā ļø Safety Tips
- Always supervise play with wand toys and put them away after ā the string can be a strangulation hazard
- Check toys regularly for loose parts, feathers, or stuffing that could be swallowed
- Rotate toys every few days to keep your cat interested
- If your cat ignores a toy, try adding a spritz of catnip spray to refresh their interest
Find Your Cat's New Favorite Toy
Browse our full selection of cat toys at PawShips ā from feather wands to puzzle feeders, we've got something for every cat personality, shipped straight to your door.