The good news is that the best toys dont necessarily cost the most money.
Anecdotally speaking, cats tire of automated toys fairly quickly.
Laser pointers that move erratically and spinning mice are no substitute for playtime with their favorite toyyou.
All the toys listed below are better when youre involved, and some are wholly powered by human technology.
While some of these toys might not seem that high-tech, to your cat they can be utterly mesmerizing.
Other toys provide audible and visual stimulation that can keep cats engaged.
Some can even be used with treats to encourage pay and deliver a pay-off that your cat will love.
We only recommend the best products based on our research and expertise.
These little critters arent completely self-reliant since youll need to turn them on.
Tim Brookes / How-To Geek
The bugs work using a vibrating motor, which causes them to move forward.
As they bump into objects or your cat interacts with them, they will change direction and scurry off.
Each HEXBUG uses two LR44 button batteries (which are included).
Spin Master
The Sphero Mini is a ball that it’s possible for you to control with asmartphone app.
The ball opens up for charging, so theres no reliance on induction charging or bulky base stations.
Download the Sphero Play app foriPhoneandAndroidto take direct control, or download theSphero Edu appto start programming the ball.
Still, to this day, Im amazed by how obsessed my cats are with these wands.
This makes them an easy recommendation if youre looking for a toy that will get your cat moving.
One of my cats loves the feather attachment while the other is far more interested in thesparkler attachment.
Fortunately, you might quickly swap them out, and weve even had success repairing the old attachments ourselves.
A wand toy with replaceable attachments that is bound to get your cat up and about.
What cat toy could be more high-tech than one that physically alters your cats brain activity?
Well, this one even crinkles when your cat plays with it.
Probably the most potent catnip toys on the market, now with crinkling action!
The lightweight balls are slightly larger than the opening that runs around the outside of the figure-eight.
ThePet Zone IQ Treat Ballis an inexpensive puzzle feeder that will engage your cats brain and stomach.
Puzzle feeders arent just fun exercises that will keep your cat engaged.
Turn meals and treats into a fun game with a puzzle feeder, complete with adjustable difficulty controls.
FAQ
Are laser toys good for cats?
Some cats love to chase laser pointers, but there is mixed evidence about whether theyre good cat toys.
This could be a treat, a meal, or the opportunity to catch prey like a soft toy.
Spin Master
Should I put cat toys away at night?
Youll need to strike a balance with your cats personality and your desire for a tidy living room.
Its a good idea to cycle cat toys so that they dont get tired of the same old things.
Sphero
Taking a toy away can help keep it exciting.
Should I limit how long my cats play with their toys?
Cat experts recommend letting your cat decide when playtime is over.
Go Cat
Ducky World
KONG
Pet Zone