Published by: Ingrid King. Last Updated on: July 27, 2023 by Crystal Uys
Interactive toys are a great way to keep your cats stimulated both mentally and physically, and a great way for both you and your cats to get in on the fun.
Interactive toys fall into two categories: toys that your cats can play with on their own, and toys that are designed for joint play for cat and human. I introduced you to Interactive Puzzle Toys for Smart Cats a couple of months ago.
Interactive toys provide fun for cat and human
Toys such as feather teasers,wand toys or fishing pole type toys can provide hours of fun for you and for kitty. Playing with your cat is not only fun, it also increases the bond between the two of you. Here are some of my, and Allegra and Ruby’s, favorites:
DaBird
Allegra and Ruby adore their DaBird toy. If you’ve been watching My Cat From Hell, you’ve probably noticed that are very few episodes when the Da Bird toy hasn’t come out of Jackson’s guitar case. The toy mimics a bird in flight so perfectly, it drives cats nuts, and it’s a great way to get them really tired out!
Neko Flies
Neko Flies toys are a perennial favorite at our house. The attachments mimic critters cats might encounter in the wild. For someone like me, who is not fond of creepy crawlies, the likeness is almost a bit eerie at times!
Cat-a-Pole
This is no ordinary wand toy. For starters, the Cat-a-Pole is huge! The wand is about 4 feet long. It’s made from sturdy plastic. And here’s the best part: unlike other interactive toys, the Cat-A-Pole doesn’t use string to attach the toy. The pom pom toy with feathers is attached with a short, sturdy chain to a 40lb fishing line that runs inside the plastic tube. This clever design creates a completely unpredictable motion, and, unlike most other interactive toys, there is no string to get tangled up during play.
Go Cat Mouse
This is another paws down favorite at our house. The Go Cat Mouse features a cute little mouse attached to a flexible braided wire, which is connected to a 12″ glitter wand. Allegra and Ruby goes nuts for this one.
Do your cats have a favorite interactive toy?
About the author
Ingrid King is an award-winning author, former veterinary hospital manager, and veterinary journalist who is passionate about cats.
