All play and no sleep makes Tiger a dull kitty
True cat lovers know which toys will make their cats jump (and scamper) for joy, and which ones just clutter up the floor, waiting for Dad’s unsuspecting bare foot in the middle of the night. After seven years of cat ownership, I can confidently say which toys get the thumbs up and which ones get the big thumbs down.
The Best and Worst Cat Toys
Fake mouse toys get a huge thumbs down. You’ve probably seen them—the cheap, furry, colorful ones with tails that are supposed to look like mice. The problem is, they don’t move like real mice. With a few exceptions, cats are usually enthralled by things that move or appear to move. These fake mouse toys? Cats might as well ignore them, as if they were part of the carpet. The only way to make these toys even mildly interesting is to attach them to a string or stick and dangle them over your cat’s head. That will give your cat five minutes of amusement.
Balls of yarn, on the other hand, get a big thumbs up. Maybe it’s the way they roll or the way the string attaches to their claws, but whatever it is, cats love them. Cats, especially kittens, go wild over a ball of yarn on a hardwood floor. Just be cautious, as they may get tangled in it and even chew some off—so always supervise.
Want a free toy that will entertain your cat long enough for you to watch an episode of Frasier in peace? Get a gallon of water, and pull the plastic “cord” from around the top. Toss the circular cord in front of your cat, and watch him go wild. He’ll grab it, let it go, then attack it again. Eventually, the piece of plastic will likely get lost under the refrigerator.
Electronic Toys and Laser Pens—Not Worth It
Electronic toy mice, while a relatively new product, get a big thumbs down. These toys are often encased in plastic or fake fur to resemble real mice. Some are even motion-activated. But when I bought one for my cats, they recoiled and ran for cover. I believe cats are too smart to be fooled by these toys. They recognize them as artificial, and the sound gives it away. Eventually, my cats just ignored it. Definitely not a toy they cherish.
Laser pens are another toy that, in my opinion, is not ideal for cats. While they certainly amuse, they can have negative effects. The red dot emitted by the laser pen provides endless chase, but it’s a chase with no reward. Cats love the pursuit because it leads to capturing prey. But when the laser dot is involved, the chase never ends. Cats may become frustrated and even suffer from overactivity, which could harm them. It’s clear that laser pens are more for human entertainment than for the cat’s well-being.
The Joy of Interaction-Based Play
After many years as a pet owner, I’ve found that the best toys are those that involve direct interaction with you. Cats love games where they chase something you control, like dangling a string over their head or hanging a stick with a toy attached to it. Even electrical cords, like those of an iron, become exciting when the cat sees you running around, dragging the cord behind you. The movement reminds them of prey, like a mouse or snake. Other cats just enjoy the chase after their owner.
Conclusion: The Best Cat Toy? You!
After numerous trials, I’ve found that the most effective toys don’t cost much at all. The best tool for effective playtime is simply your interaction with your cat. With your participation, even the simplest toy will become the most engaging one for your furry friend.
