18 Best Cat Toys To Gift Your Feline Friend

Cat Toys, Cats, Pet product reviews

Last Updated - December 12, 2023

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Quick Comparison of Our Top 4 Picks

Best Overall
Frisco 12-Piece Cat Toy Variety Pack thumbnail
  • Provides daily exercise and mental stimulation
  • Preferred by cats

4.8/5

Best on a budget
SmartyKat Skitter Critters Catnip Toy 10-Pack thumbnail
  • Satisfies your kitty’s prey-seeking instinct
  • Chemical-free and pesticide-free catnip

4.8/5

Best cat toy for curious cats
PetStages Rainy Day Puzzle & Play Cat Toy thumbnail
  • Helps encourage their natural foraging instincts
  • Made from only food safe materials

4.2/5

best electronic cat toy
PetFusion Ambush Interactive Electronic Cat Toy thumbnail
  • Anti-slip feet help the toy stay put
  • Features an 8-minute auto shutoff

4.2/5

More Top Picks & Recommendations

What better way to show your feline friend some love than with a new set of cat toys this holiday season? Below, we've rounded up the best cat toys on the market today. We've got everything from an interactive robotic cat toy to catnip mice to jingling balls to ensure cats of all ages and activity levels stay fully entertained. Watching your cat swat, pounce, and hunt their new toys around the house is sure to put a smile on your face too.

The Best Cat Toys For Indoor Cats

Frisco 12-Piece Cat Toy Variety Pack

Best Overall 

overall 

4.8/5

Price

$$$

Sturdiness

Durability

Easy To Clean

Frisco 12-Piece Cat Toy Variety Pack

Give your kitty a little bit of everything with this 12-Piece Cat Toy Variety Pack from Frisco. It's got all the best cat toys, all in one budget-friendly set. Indoor cats will never get bored of the different crinkly textures, catnip pouches, and jingling bells. With catnip mice, pom-poms, a ribbon toy, and more, the fun never has to stop!

Material

Fleece, Synthetic Fabric

Size

N/A

What We Like

  • A bundle of excitement just for cats
  • Preferred by cats for a variety of play options
  • Provide cats with the daily exercise and mental stimulation
  • Great for single kitties or multi-cat homes

What We Don't Like

  • Your cat may not play with them all

SmartyKat Skitter Critters Catnip Toy 10-Pack

Best On A Budget

overall 

4.8/5

Price

$$

Sturdiness

Durability

Easy To Clean

SmartyKat Skitter Critters Catnip Toy 10-Pack

Most cats will get excited when they smell catnip. With this SmartyKat Skitter Critters Catnip Toy 10-Pack, you don't need to spend a fortune to entertain your cat for hours on end. Each toy mouse has 100% pure, chemical-free, pesticide-free catnip inside to entice them to keep playing. Your cat can bat, swat, and chase the toys around the house to challenge its natural hunting skill. They're a great choice for cats of all ages, sizes, and activity levels. And did we mention they're adorable too?

Material

Polyester, Synthetic Fabric

Size

2 x 1 x 1 inches

What We Like

  • Satisfies your kitty’s prey-seeking instinct
  • Stuffed with chemical-free and pesticide-free catnip
  • Plush design entices your kitty to play
  • Easy-to-carry design

What We Don't Like

  • Your cat may loose interest overtime

PetStages Rainy Day Puzzle & Play Cat Toy

Best Cat Toy For Curious Cats 

overall 

4.2/5

Price

$$$$$

Sturdiness

Durability

Easy To Clean

PetStages Rainy Day Puzzle & Play Cat Toy

This PetStages Rainy Day Puzzle & Play Cat Toy was designed to stimulate your cat's natural foraging instincts. It's designed with 14 hidden treat compartments that your cat can open through batting the pegs and successfully swatting the raindrops. The puzzle can hold up to 1/4 cup of cat food, so you can also use it as a slow feeder. Pet parents can rest easy knowing it's made from food-safe materials that are 100% free from BPA, PVC, and phthalates.

Material

N/A

Size

13.8 x 14.02 x 1.6 inches

What We Like

  • Helps encourage their natural foraging instincts
  • Can help slow down eating habits
  • This puzzle can hold up to ¼ cup of food
  • Helps keep your cat busy
  • Made from only food safe materials and 100% free from BPA, PVC and phthalate

What We Don't Like

  • Food can get stuck

PetFusion Ambush Interactive Electronic Cat Toy

Best Electronic Cat Toy

overall 

4.2/5

Price

$$$$$

Sturdiness

Durability

Easy To Clean

PetFusion Ambush Interactive Electronic Cat Toy

Tech-savvy pet parents will love this Ambush Interactive Electronic Cat Toy from PetFusion, as it is one of the best interactive toys. Bright feathers pop out at random from six holes to ensure your cat keeps both their mind and body engaged. The quick motions mimic fast-moving prey while LED color lighting keeps their full attention. Anti-slip feet on the bottom help keep the toy in place on wood floors and tile.

Material

Plastic

Size

6.8 x 6.8 x 2.8 inches

What We Like

  • Captivate your cat's attention
  • Satisfy his hunting instincts with a toy that simulates fast-moving prey
  • Anti-slip feet help the toy stay put
  • Includes one replacement feather
  • Features an 8-minute auto shutoff 
  • Doesn't need to be fixed every minute
  • Fairly quiet

What We Don't Like

  • Require batteries
  • It does make some noise that can be annoying for some
  • Expensive

UPSKY 3-Level Turntable Interactive Cat Toy

Best Cat Toy For Kittens

overall 

4.5/5

Price

$$

Sturdiness

Durability

Easy To Clean

UPSKY 3-Level Turntable Interactive Cat Toy

Looking for interactive cat toys your kitten will love at every age? You can't go wrong with this 3-Level Turntable Interactive Cat Toy from UPSKY. Its three-tiered tracks and six rolling balls are made of durable, scratch-resistant plastic that can withstand years of play. Plus, the interactive toy comes equipped with a non-slip base to prevent it from sliding around or tipping over while your kitten goes crazy chasing after the balls. With plenty of room to play, it's a great option for multi-cat households, too and making this one of the best kitty toys.

Material

Plastic

Size

10 x 10 x 7.5 inches

What We Like

  • Available in five colors
  • Made of ultra-strong and tear-resistant PP that stands up to crazy cat
  • A detachable multi-layer for easy cleanup
  • Can be played with multiple cats at once
  • Four anti-slip mats on the bottom
  • Easy to assemble

What We Don't Like

  • May be more suitable for younger cats
  • Balls are lightweight and can pop out of the track

Smyidel Wooden Track Turntable Cat Toy

Most Stylish Design

overall 

4.5/5

Price

$$$$$

Sturdiness

Durability

Easy To Clean

Smyidel Wooden Track Turntable Cat Toy

Who said cat toys have to detract from your home decor? This stylish Smyidel Wooden Track Turntable Cat Toy is guaranteed to please pets and pet parents alike. The two-tier track-and-ball toy is made from sleek wood that's far more durable, more aesthetic, and more environmentally friendly than cheap plastic alternatives. It's a great addition to any living room, bedroom, or apartment. Consider it the perfect holiday gift for the pet lover in your life.

Material

Wood

Size

4.3 x 10.2 inches

What We Like

  • Solid wood base, heavy weight, stable, not easy to overturn, and through fine grinding, smooth edges
  • The wooden balls surface is definitely glossy which is easy for the ball to roll
  • Wooden cat toy roller made of natural safe wooden material
  • Aesthetically pleasing

What We Don't Like

  • Work best on carpet

KONG Pull-A-Partz Bugz Cat Toy

Best Crinkle Toy

overall 

4.8/5

Price

$$

Sturdiness

Durability

Easy To Clean

KONG Pull-A-Partz Bugz Cat Toy

This KONG Pull-a-Partz Bugz Cat Toy is guaranteed to catch your cat's attention! The 4-in-1 pull-apart cat toy is made with a crackling leaf base and three catnip-filled bug toys. It's designed to entice all your kitty's senses, bust boredom, and keep them physically and mentally occupied for hours. Be prepared to find the different pieces scattered all throughout the house after a successful play session.

Material

Polyester, Synthetic Fabric

Size

1.25 x 10 x 13.75 inches

What We Like

  • 4-in-1 pull-apart cat toy
  • Stuffed with catnip inside
  • Designed to entice stalk and grab play
  • Crafted with a crackling material for a multi sensory experience
  • Features a large leaf base and 3 bug buddies

What We Don't Like

  • Bugs are sturdy but can be pulled off

Catit Play Massager Circuit Cat Toy

Best for Solo Play 

overall 

4.5/5

Price

$$$$

Sturdiness

Durability

Easy To Clean

Catit Play Massager Circuit Cat Toy

This 3-in-1 Catit Play Massager Circuit Cat Toy is sure to keep your cat entertained during solo play. It's designed with an entertaining ball-and-track area, a nubby massage board, and a spring-mounted bee that provide a variety of ways to play. It gets cats moving and encourages a healthy, active lifestyle. Plus, the multi-textured massage board offers a great way to relax between play sessions.

Material

Plastic

Size

3 x 10.5 x 10.5 inches

What We Like

  • Made with durable plastic
  • 3-in-1 cat toy offers multiple activity areas to keep your cat occupied and entertained
  • A multi-textured, nubby massage board that will nurture your cat’s natural nuzzling urges
  • Included catnip 

What We Don't Like

  • Made of plastic
  • Your cat can get the ball out of the track

Smartykat Flutter Balls Cat Toys with Feathers

Best Feather Cat Toy

overall 

4.5/5

Price

$

Sturdiness

Durability

Easy To Clean

Smartykat Flutter Balls Cat Toys with Feathers

Help your indoor cat get in touch with its natural hunting instincts with this SmartyKat Flutter Balls Cat Toys with Feathers. The plush balls feature a plume of colorful feathers that your kitty will stalk and hunt around the house just like a real bird. They're lightweight, soft, and surprisingly durable. Just toss them down the hallway and watch your cat go wild.

Material

Polyester

Size

1.75 x 5 x 0.07 inches

What We Like

  • Multi texture
  • Large enough for adult or larger cats
  • Soft and durable, even the feather
  • Satisfies your cat's natural hunting instinct
  • Affordable

What We Don't Like

  • Aggressive chewers can get the feather out
  • Your cat can get the stuffing out over time

Frisco Peek-a-Boo Cat Chute Colorful Tri-Tunnel

Best Cat Tunnel

overall 

4.6/5

Price

$$$

Sturdiness

Durability

Easy To Clean

Frisco Peek-a-Boo Cat Chute Colorful Tri-Tunnel

Upgrade playtime with this Frisco Peek-a-Boo Cat Chute Colorful Tri-Tunnel. Cats naturally love to explore and chase prey through enclosed spaces, so they'll love darting back and forth after catnip mice in this multi-directional tunnel. Plus, it offers a safe, comfortable place for your feline friends to nap in between play sessions too. The collapsible tunnel is a must-have for households with multiple cats or kittens. It folds down flat for easy storage when you've got company or needs a bit more floor space.

Material

Polyester, Synthetic Fabric

Size

18 x 9.5 inches

What We Like

  • Pop-up cat play tunnel provides fun games
  • Easy to use
  • Easily fold it down for quick and simple storage
  • Best for both adult and kitten

What We Don't Like

  • Can feel small for larger cats

Petmate Catfisher Teasers Cat Toy

Best Teaser Wand Toy

overall 

4.6/5

Price

$$

Sturdiness

Durability

Easy To Clean

Petmate Catfisher Teasers Cat Toy

If there's one cat toy that every cat owner needs, it's a wand toy like this Petmate Catfisher Teasers Cat Toy. Wand toys are highly interactive and easy to control, making them great for both you and your cat. Just hold on to the polycarbonate wand and give it a twirl. You'll have your cat jumping, chasing, and pouncing in no time, thanks to the enticing catnip pouch inside. Cat owners can choose from a cute tadpole, crawdad, or worm design made from durable fabric that sharp teeth and claws won't tear during playtime.

Material

Polyester, Synthetic Fabric

Size

18 x 9.5 inches

What We Like

  • Interactive play with your cat
  • Stretch Knit tether is 25” in
  • Promotes exercise for your cat
  • Plush character contains organic catnip
  • Affordable

What We Don't Like

  • Not for every cat

PetSafe Bolt Automatic Laser Toy

Best Cat Tunnel

overall 

4.2/5

Price

$$$$$

Sturdiness

Durability

Easy To Clean

PetSafe Bolt Automatic Laser Toy

Many cats and cat owners love a laser toy as it will get your cat moving. With this PetSafe Bolt Automatic Laser Toy, your cats can enjoy all the fun of classic laser toys even when you're away. The Bolt toy automatically turns off after 15 minutes to prevent your cat from getting overstimulated or losing interest. Just add four AA batteries, and your cat can enjoy up to 1 month of play. The laser is a great way for busy pet parents to keep their cats active while they're at work or on vacation.

Material

Plastic

Size

3 x 3 x 9 inches

What We Like

  • Encourages mental stimulation
  • Automatic mode moves the laser in random patterns for hands-free play while you’re busy or away
  • Manual mode lets you control the fun
  • Timer automatically turns the laser off after 15 minutes to conserve battery life

What We Don't Like

  • Battery powered
  • Expensive

Frisco Cat Track Butterfly Cat Toy

Best Cat Toy For Older Cats 

overall 

4.6/5

Price

$$

Sturdiness

Durability

Easy To Clean

Frisco Cat Track Butterfly Cat Toy

Though your cat may be getting older, they still need toys to stay mentally engaged and moderately active. This Frisco Cat Tracks Butterfly Cat Toy does both by offering a plethora of movement, sounds, and colors. The interactive toy lets your cat swat, jump, run, and play as much or as little as they want. It's equipped with non-skid pads to keep the tiered tracks firmly in place while your feline plays.

Material

Plastic

Size

9.76 x 9.76 x 5.5 inches

What We Like

  • Two color options available
  • Includes 3-tier track, 3 colorful balls, and 2 butterfly pieces
  • Triple-decker towers each with its own rolling ball
  • Spinning action of the ball, rolling sound and bouncy butterfly on top keeps cats engaged in play
  • Nonskid pads
  • Perfect for a single kitty or multiple cats too

What We Don't Like

  • Butterfly on top may not last

Petstages Fresh Breath Mint Stick Cat Chew Toy

Best Chew Toy

overall 

4.5/5

Price

$

Sturdiness

Durability

Easy To Clean

Petstages Fresh Breath Mint Stick Cat Chew Toy

Dogs aren't the only house pets that love chew toys. Cats love chewing on teeth-cleaning toys like this Fresh Breath Mint Stick Cat Chew Toy from Petstages. The durable netting helps remove tartar without coming unraveled as your cat gnaws away. It's filled with real dried mint to help freshen your kitty's bad breath and invigorate their senses while they play.

Material

Polyester, Synthetic Fabric

Size

6.5 x 3.5 x 0.8 inches

What We Like

  • Lightweight toy can be easily be batted and carried
  • Filled with sweet smelling mint to freshen breath as kitty chews
  • Durable netting helps remove soft tartar to enhance dental health
  • Spinning action of the ball, rolling sound and bouncy butterfly on top keeps cats engaged in play
  • Filled with real dried mint
  • Can be use for cats of all ages

What We Don't Like

  • Your cat may loose interests over time

Trixie Cat Activity Treat Dispenser

Best for Food-Motivated Pets

overall 

4.4/5

Price

$$$$$

Sturdiness

Durability

Easy To Clean

Trixie Cat Activity Treat Dispenser

Put your cat's mind to work with this Trixie Cat Activity Treat Dispenser. It features five different food-motivated games for them to play. Each requires them to use their brain in a different way while they find the treats hidden inside. It's a great way to slow down fast eaters or keep them entertained between meals. For double the benefits, fill the toy with dental treats that'll clean your cat's teeth while they play.

Material

Plastic

Size

15.75 x 11.81 x 3 inches

What We Like

  • 5 designs available
  • Provides physical exercise and mental stimulation
  • 4 different games to peak cat’s curiosity
  • Non-slip rubber feet to keep in place
  • Suitable for cats of all ages

What We Don't Like

  • Can get a little messy 
  • Hard to deep clean

Comfy Pet Supplies Wool Felt Balls

Best Eco-Friendly Cat Toys

overall 

4.6/5

Price

$$$$$

Sturdiness

Durability

Easy To Clean

Comfy Pet Supplies Wool Felt Balls

Did you know that most cat toys are made from synthetic fabrics and plastic materials that are hazardous for the planet and potentially your pet's health? That's why these Comfy Supplies Wool Felt Balls are made with non-toxic, biodegradable wool. They're hand-felted in Nepal by local artisans to bring out the natural texture of the wool. Each one is slightly larger than a golf ball, the perfect size for your kitty's mouth.

Material

Wool

Size

4cm

What We Like

  • Made from 100% natural wool
  • Non-toxic and eco friendly
  • Includes 6 colored cat balls
  • Soft and slightly squishy
  • Handmade

What We Don't Like

  • Not for every cat
  • Hard to clean

Potaroma Electric Flopping Fish Toy

Most Entertaining

overall 

4.2/5

Price

$$$

Sturdiness

Durability

Easy To Clean

Potaroma Electric Flopping Fish Toy

It's impossible not to smile while watching your cat bats, bite, and kick this Electric Flopping Fish Toy from Potaroma. The built-in motion sensor kicks in to create a writing motion every time your cat comes to play. A catnip pouch tucked inside helps relieve stress and encourage your kitty to play. Choose from a cute carp, clownfish, or rainbow trout design for your little hunter to catch.

Material

Plush

Size

10.5 x 4.7 inches

What We Like

  • Machine washable
  • Interactive fun for your cat
  • Automatic built-in motion sensor kicks into action
  • Real fish simulation
  • Made of soft durable plush for your kitten to chew and wrestle

What We Don't Like

  • Require charging
  • Can scare cats, especially kittens

Frisco Cat Toy & Tunnel Variety Pack

Best Toy for New Pet Parents

overall 

4.8/5

Price

$$$$

Sturdiness

Durability

Easy To Clean

Frisco Cat Toy & Tunnel Variety Pack

Not sure what type of cat toys your new kitty will like? This Frisco Cat Toy & Tunnel Variety Pack offers a little bit of everything. The 20-piece set includes crinkly balls, fuzzy mice, catnip toys, a collapsible three-way tunnel, and more. It's a great way to learn which cat toys your cat loves, so you know what to purchase in the future. And at just $20, you won't feel like you wasted money on the toys your cat wasn't interested in.

Material

Plastic, Polyester, Synthetic Fabric

Size

15.75 x 15.75 x 3.94 inches

What We Like

  • Comes with 20 assorted quality toys
  • Provides a variety of cat-preferred play options
  • Great way to provide cats with the daily exercise and mental stimulation
  • More play for your buck
  • Perfect for adult cats and kittens

What We Don't Like

  • Your cat may not love every toy
  • Tunnel can be small for larger cats

Tips For Finding The Right Toy For Your Cat

Just like a dog, cats need mental and physical play, stimulation, and exercise to prevent boredom. No matter your cat's age, playtime is an essential part of your cat's mental and physical health. It will help your cat to maintain a healthy weight and avoid behavioral issues.

  • Size: keep your cat's size in mind when purchasing a toy. For kittens, it should be compatible with their small bodies. Small toys are the best option for kittens.
  • Age: Just like buying toys for kids, you will want to find toys that are age-appropriate for your cat. For kittens, avoid objects that have holes or loose material. They need comfy toys like plush mice. For an adult cat, look for toys that stimulate them to exercise physically and mentally to stay active. Interactive toys and play are a great way to get your adult cats to move around the house.
  • Multiple cats: If you have multiple cats in a household, you may want to find something that everyone enjoys to avoid any tussles. Cat trees are always a great option for multi-cat households as they offer levels, activities, and multiple nap spots.
  • Dental health: To help your cat to keep their teeth clean, there are many dental care toys out on the market today. It will help clean teeth, remove tart while they play.
  • Safety: Safety should always be a top priority. You should "cat-proof" your house by removing items they could accidentally choke on, like a paper clip, string, plastic bags. And when playing with a robotic toy, always be sure to keep your eyes on your baby.

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About the Author

Doctor of veterinary medicine with extensive experience in animal welfare with a strong interest in feline medicine and plans to pursue ABVP-Feline specialty board certification. A key member of many local veterinary associations and avid reader of animal related science journals and studies.