Cat Toys for Indoor Cats: What to Look For

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What to check before you buy

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Toys that move like prey

Cats respond to things that dart, flutter or hide. A wand toy that you move gives the best chance of getting your cat running.

Safe for unsupervised play

Strings, ribbons and small parts can be swallowed. Keep string toys for play with you, and put them away afterward.

Check the size and the parts

A toy that is too small can be swallowed. Look at eyes, bells and feathers, and check if they are firmly attached.

Puzzle feeders: start easy

A puzzle feeder gives a cat something to work out. Start with an easy setting so your cat does not give up, and make it harder later.

Rotate the toys

A cat gets used to what is always on the floor. Put some away and swap them every week or so, and the old toys feel new.

Short, regular play sessions

Short sessions each day often work better than a long one now and then. Ask your vet if your cat is overweight or low on energy.

Which one is for you?

Your cat is alone for long hoursAdd solo toys and a puzzle feeder, and play with a wand toy when you are home.
You have a kittenLots of short wand sessions, with supervision on anything small.
Your cat ignores toysTry different movements and textures, and play at the time your cat is most awake, often early morning or evening.
Your cat is olderGentle, slow-moving toys and short sessions often suit better.

Our shortlist

Shortlist coming soon

Products land here once we check them

We are putting together a shortlist of cat toys. We will add products here once we have checked their details, and we will say clearly which ones we have not used.

Quick answers

How much should I play with my cat?

It depends on your cat's age and energy. Short sessions every day are a good start, and your vet can advise on your cat.

Are string and ribbon toys safe?

They can be dangerous if swallowed. Use them only with supervision, and put them away afterward.

Why does my cat get bored of toys?

Cats get used to what is always available. Rotating toys and playing with a wand toy keeps things interesting.

Does PetBea get paid when I click?

Not yet. No link on this site earns us money today. If that changes, we will say so next to every store button, and it will not change what we write.

How we pick and what "tested" means

Cat toys and enrichment for indoor cats: what to look for

The short answer