Good to Know: Here Are the Most Loved Toys for Your Cat
How can you keep a cat entertained? This is a question many pet owners ask. Indoor cats especially need engagement to keep boredom at bay. Discover and try out toys suitable for cats living indoors, tailored to their soft paws. After all, every cat has its own personality.
Why Are Toys So Important for Cats?
Indoor cats have greater play needs compared to outdoor cats—so don’t be surprised if your outdoor cat pays less attention to toys. However, play is a fundamental need for our furry four-legged friends. It’s no wonder that toys in the cat accessory category remain a timeless classic. But why are cat toys so essential?
- Play is a fundamental need for cats that lasts into old age.
- It enhances the animal's mental and physical well-being.
- It prevents boredom and undesirable behaviors, such as chewing on plants, scratching furniture, and more.
- Playing together also strengthens the bond between cats and people.
Intelligence Games for Cats: A Challenge for Their Velvet Paws
Many cat toys tap into their hunting instincts, such as the beloved mouse chase, which involves pursuing a fabric or rubber mouse. Intelligence games also intrigue cats, offering an engaging alternative to the sometimes monotonous daily routine indoors. Boredom and insufficient stimulation are often the causes of behavioral problems that need to be addressed.
Particularly popular are toys that hide food: if your cat has tried one before, you’ll know how much they enjoy this special skill-based game. With food-hiding games, your cat has to earn the reward. For instance, there are play boards, also known as Cat Activity Boards, where the cat must first slide the desired treat through a maze and then retrieve it, possibly from a container. Sometimes, sliding mechanisms are included: to reach the tasty reward, the cat must first move the mechanism sideways. Usually, they won’t get it on the first try, which really challenges their problem-solving skills. When they finally get the treat, their satisfaction will be all the greater.
How to Keep Your Cat Engaged: Favorite Games
- Mouse Chase
Cats love catching mice—it’s in their nature. If you have a cat that goes outdoors, you’ve probably seen it catch a mouse in action. Interestingly, the prey isn’t always immediately killed and eaten. Most cats play with their catch before enjoying it. The pet industry offers all kinds of cat toys that mimic mouse hunts, often involving plush mice attached to a string and rod. Dragging the mouse behind you mimics movement, allowing your little tiger to catch it. - Balls
Treat your cat with balls: they come in many shapes and sizes, made of plastic or fabric. For cats, anything that rolls is pure fun. Balls are ideal for indoor cats because chasing them simulates a hunt, providing exercise. Some balls even make sounds, although not all cats enjoy this. Experiment to find out which types your little tiger likes best! - Fishing Rod Toys
Similar to mouse chase toys, fishing rods have a stick and string with an attachment, such as a faux bird, tassels, or simply a ball. Offer the toy to your cat and move it slightly. You’ll instantly see their hunting instinct awaken. Be careful! Once triggered, the cat will grab the toy with lightning speed. - Tunnels
For some cats, tunnel-shaped toys are a big hit because they love to hide. A tunnel can also be a cozy place to rest. But it’s also a source of great fun: for example, your tiger can race through it. Many cat tunnels are lined with crinkly material that makes noise when the cat runs or crawls through. For some, it’s pure joy, while others may find it frightening. - Scratching Trees
Scratching trees, or cat trees, are another favorite among cats. While primarily used for claw sharpening, climbing, and hiding, they can become your cat’s favorite spot if you add some toys. Hang a fishing rod toy or hide their favorite toy on the tree. Pro tip: if you’re hanging a toy, use an elastic string so it doesn’t get pulled off too easily.
More: Cat News
