Cats are natural-born hunters. If your feline friend seems uninterested in toys, it’s likely not a personality flaw—it might just be that the toys don’t appeal to their instincts. To get your cat to engage and play, it’s essential to choose toys from a cat’s perspective—ones that tap into their hunting behaviors and physical needs.
How to Choose the Right Cat Toys
1. Color Doesn’t Matter:
Cats are red-green colorblind, so bright or vibrant colors won’t necessarily catch their attention.
2. Mimic Prey Movements:
Toys that replicate the behavior of small animals—such as fast movement, rolling, or hiding—are more likely to spark your cat’s hunting drive.
3. Cater to Multiple Needs:
Besides hunting, cats love to climb, explore, and scratch. The best toys satisfy a range of instincts and activities.
Top 6 Types of Cat Toys Your Cat Will Love
1. Cat Scratching Boards
Pros: Fulfills your cat’s natural scratching instinct and helps protect your furniture.
Cons: Can be unstable—pair with a non-slip mat for better use.
2. Teaser Wands (Cat Wands)
Pros: Mimics prey movement, offers diverse play styles, and enhances human-cat bonding through interactive play.
Cons: Easily worn out—keep a few backups on hand.
3. Cat Trees & Towers
Pros: Provides space for climbing, scratching, and jumping—great for burning off energy.
Best Choice: Look for sturdy, floor-to-ceiling models placed near windows for enrichment and outdoor viewing.
4. Cat Balls (with Bells or Motorized)
Pros: Rolling action mimics prey and encourages chasing—even when you’re not home, your cat can play independently.
5. Laser Toys
Pros: Most cats find the fast-moving laser dot irresistible.
Watch Out: Since the laser can’t be caught, it may frustrate your cat. Pair it with a treat or toy at the end to simulate a successful “hunt.”
6. Interactive Electronic Toys
Pros: Random movement keeps cats guessing and engaged—perfect for solo play while you’re away.
Final Thoughts
To get your cat to fall in love with toys, it’s not about how cute or fancy they look—it’s about choosing the right type. Combine the right toy with interaction and reward, and your cat will rediscover the joy of the hunt. Try a few from the list above and see which one becomes your cat’s new favorite!
