Cats are famously picky, and a toy that looks perfect in a photo can be ignored within minutes. A little thought about how your cat plays, and what the toy is made of, saves money and keeps your cat safe.

Match the toy to your cat's play style

Watch how your cat plays before you order. Most cats lean towards one or two of these styles.

  • Chasers love things that skitter and roll: balls, mice and anything that moves unpredictably.
  • Pouncers and stalkers enjoy wand toys and feathers on a string, where you control the movement.
  • Kickers grab a toy with their front paws and bunny-kick it with the back legs. Longer, sturdy toys suit them.
  • Solo players need toys that keep them busy when you're out, such as tracks, puzzle feeders or toys they can bat around safely.

Adult cats often prefer toys that look like prey in size and texture. Kittens usually like smaller, lighter toys they can carry.

Check the materials

The product page should say what the toy is made of. Look for:

  1. Fabric that is stitched securely. Loose seams and thin stuffing can be pulled apart quickly.
  2. No small parts that can be chewed off. Plastic eyes, bells and glued-on decorations are a choking risk for cats that chew.
  3. Natural fibres or stuffing you can identify. Vague wording such as "special filling" tells you little.
  4. Strings and ribbons that can be removed. Long strings are a hazard if swallowed, so wand toys should be put away after play.

If the page doesn't describe the materials at all, treat that as a warning sign and ask the seller before you buy.

A note on catnip and similar herbs

Many cat toys contain catnip or a similar plant. Not every cat responds to it, and young kittens often don't react at all. If your cat shows no interest, that's normal and doesn't mean the toy is faulty. Because the plant material loses its scent over time, check whether the seller offers refills or tells you how to store the toy so it stays fresh.

Think about size and sturdiness

  • Too small and the toy can be swallowed. As a rough rule, avoid anything small enough to fit entirely in your cat's mouth.
  • Too large or heavy and a small cat may not be able to move it.
  • Washable toys last longer. Check the care instructions, because some filled toys can't go in the washing machine.

Rotate rather than pile up

Cats get bored of a toy that is always lying around. Keep a few in use and put the rest away, then swap them every week or so. Old toys feel new again, and you don't need to keep buying more.

Check the store before you order

Small independent shops often make the most inventive cat toys, but check the basics first: a clear returns policy, realistic delivery times and a real contact address. Our guide on checking whether an online store is legit lists what to look for. If you are also shopping for furniture and bedding, see cat-proofing furniture and buying cat gear online.

Supervise play

Even a well-made toy can be damaged. Check toys regularly for loose threads, torn seams or missing pieces, and throw away any that are coming apart. If your cat swallows something it shouldn't, contact a vet.

The short version

Choose toys that fit how your cat actually plays, check the materials and any small parts, and don't expect every cat to love catnip. Rotate toys to keep them interesting, supervise play with strings, and read the returns policy before you order.