We all know how cats can turn into lazy fluffballs at a whim, and the sleepy cat phenomenon has spawned countless memes across the Internet. For some cats having a more laid back character, this is just their “vibe”, and that’s one of the things we love them for. But as an owner, every one of us would like to give them at least something that could truly excite and incite them, right? The premium online retailer KOSTON is ready to share chunks of popular knowledge about how to choose cat toys that actually work.
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Why do cats sometimes not appreciate toys?
It can be frustrating to try and put some effort into choosing the perfect gift for your cat, only to watch them completely disregard it. There are tons of jokes about how cats might suddenly think less of a toy than the box it was delivered in, and the reason is simple.
Cats are predators at heart, even the most serene and relaxed ones. Even us humans want toys to cater to our instincts, so cats are no exception. Plus, cats are pickier than us in every possible way, so if you’re asking yourself, “Why does my cat not want to play with the toy I gave”, there are likely one or two factors at play.
So, the hunter thing first. Kitties like toys that mimic prey behavior, and to them, prey means something unpredictable or erratic, like birds or mice, so static toys may fail to stimulate their instincts once you stop wiggling them (they’ll just hug it and cuddle). Same goes for predictable ones, moving in a circle or a straight line at the same speed.
But that doesn’t mean all cat toys should be dynamic and move on their own. Balls of yarn don’t, right? That’s where the second factor comes into the picture: texture.
Cats care much more about texture and smell. And that’s where the individuality matters: some cats like things soft, like plush mousies, but some will go for crinkly or rubbery materials.
Another factor is your cat’s preferred play style, which is also their hunting tactic: chaser, pouncer, or batter. Some cats like toys that imitate chasing, so they can feel like a cheetah – lasers, balls, everything they can run after. A majority of cats are pouncers, meaning they like dangling toys that mimic the grass around a mouse they’re about to catch. There is also the battering, meaning repeated beating with the paw, and some cats love it (sometimes also as a social behavior).
Is my cat too lazy?
In some cases, though, it’s not that there’s anything inherently wrong with the toy, it’s just that the cat feels like spending more time in the cuddle mode. While outdoor cats usually come in for power naps, indoor cats are especially famous for being “lazier” and sleep between 12-16 hours a day.
There are reasons, too:
- Limited Space and Stimulation: Indoor cats often lack the space to roam or the stimulation needed to mimic hunting behaviors, so you might want to recreate the pristine lifestyle for them (but without the real dangers)
- Lack of Regular Play Sessions: Multiple studies have found that fewer than half of cat owners report engaging in interactive play with their cat on a daily basis. The reason can be simple: when an owner sees their cat is bored, they may also lose interest in playing, creating a cycle of reduced playtime.
- Access to Comfort: Outdoor cats have a whole territory to watch over, while indoor ones have all their first-order needs met, meaning they simply indulge in laziness.
- Diet and Overfeeding: Research suggests that up to 60% of indoor cats are overweight or obese, which, in turn, makes them less active.
- Breed Tendencies: Certain breeds, like Persians or Ragdolls, are naturally less active, preferring a relaxed lifestyle compared to more energetic breeds like Bengals or Abyssinians.
That being said, of course, that doesn’t mean everyone should just let their lazy kitty sleep all the time. Inactivity can lead to health problems such as obesity, diabetes, and joint issues. Mental health is also impacted, with bored cats more likely to develop behavioral problems, such as excessive grooming or aggression.
Top most engaging toys for cats: strategies
1. Interactive Wand Toys
Wand toys are classics, especially if you know how to handle them to mimic the movement of prey. Whether they come with feathers, little bells, or strings, this is a nice option for cats that opt for pouncing. With additions like catnip, they can also become hugging buddies for the feline once they’ve caught them.
2. Laser Pointers
This is a contested territory, since cats do want to finally catch and claw the thing they’re chasing, and the elusive red dot is not really the thing. Many cat owners actually prefer to throw in a physical toy for the cat to catch at the end of the game, otherwise they’ll either be frustrated and learn too soon it’s not worth the effort to chase it, or go on wrecking the apartment.
3. Electronic Motion Toys
There are some more expensive robotic toys or motion-activated mice that scurry around the floor unpredictably. Their success depends on how unpredictable they are, and the cat’s temper. Some will love to play with them, some will catch them once, sniff them and understand they’re not edible, losing interest, and some will just be frustrated to begin with. However, they’re still a good option depending on the cat.
4. Puzzle Feeders and Treat Dispensers
These combine hunting with rewards, so cats often do like them. However, when they are too simple, cats just figure out how they work and get treats when they’re bored, losing interest, so they usually work well in combination with other toys. They also need to match your cat’s level of willingness to solve puzzles, because hey, not all humans like them, and neither do all cats.
5. Tunnels and Crinkle Toys
These couple together since they’re ultimately intended for mouser cats, who often tend to orient on sound and like enclosed spaces for hunting. However, tunnels might be difficult to clean, while the sound component may be problematic for some of us who like silence in their homesteads. But if your cat is clearly a mouser, they will appreciate them.
6. Catnip and Silvervine Toys
If all else fails, there’s always catnip. Of course, there’s all this humor that pokes fun at cats and their obsession with catnip, drawing parallels with humans (a la “haha, cat is drunk”) – but in reality, catnip is non-addictive. Yes, cats win this round; we can only wish we had some sort of, say, wine that’s not ultimately bad for us, while felines have herbal fun stuff they can consume whenever they want. KOSTON’s cat toy collection features many toys stuffed with organic catnip, which is safer and healthier for cats than synthetic alternatives.
Is catnip safe?
Toys stuffed with organic catnip have long been a popular option for both physical and mental stimulation. What we call “catnip” is, in and of itself, just a plant from the mint family, containing the compound called nepetalactone, that triggers temporary euphoria in many cats (but not all of them). How to tell if your kitty enjoys it? It rolls, rubs, purrs, and displays playful behaviors.
As mentioned previously, catnip is generally safe for cats: a cat can’t be addicted to it, there are no considerable health risks besides overconsumption. However, there are a few caveats:
- Temporary Effects: The effects of catnip last about 10-15 minutes, after which cats become temporarily immune to its effects for a few hours.
- Overexposure: While rare, overexposure to catnip (e.g., consuming large amounts) can cause mild digestive upset, such as vomiting or diarrhea.
- Not Universal: Only about 50-70% of cats respond to catnip due to genetic factors. Kittens under three months and senior cats may also be less affected.
That being said, the main consideration when choosing a catnip toy is to opt for a durable and non-toxic one because of all the rubbing.
KOSTON’s Cat Toy Ideas
Here are some examples of KOSTON products for cats that take these considerations into account:
Fish Bone Cat Toy
$26.00
View on KOSTON.com
It’s hand-crafted with all-natural cotton linen, while infused with organic catnip, meaning it’s safe fun for cats. Plus, regardless of its peculiar shape, it’s designed to withstand the (sometimes violent) impulses from the kitty.
Fish and Chews – Beige
$30.00
View on KOSTON.com
Ready for fishing season, but not ready for the outdoors? Don’t worry, Fish and Chew is the perfect indoor replacement! Made with birch, soft linen, cotton and stuffed with 100% polyester. It is durable to withstand all the clawing and chewing.
Bamdoll Cat Toy
$26.00
View on KOSTON.com
Crafted with all-natural cotton linen, polyester and organic catnip (USDA organic), the Bamdoll Toy brings hours of fun, and is also quite durable.
Why choose eco-friendly cat toys?
When choosing the best toy for your cat, mind that natural cat toys offer a host of benefits for both your feline companion and the environment. These toys, crafted from organic materials, provide a safer playtime experience by eliminating the risks associated with synthetic chemicals and toxins. They also appeal to a cat’s innate instincts, mimicking elements found in nature and encouraging natural behaviors like hunting and pouncing. The textures and scents of natural materials offer a richer sensory experience, keeping cats more engaged during play.
KOSTON’s cat toy collection features a diverse range of toys to suit various feline preferences and play styles. Made from biodegradable materials, they are designed to stimulate a cat’s natural instincts while ensuring safety during play. This approach helps keep cats engaged for longer periods, combating boredom and promoting overall well-being.
