Cat Toys
Best Cat Toys to Beat Boredom and Keep Cats Active
4 picks compared
8 min read
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?How we pickedWe compare published specifications, safety certifications and thousands of verified owner reviews, and we do not physically test every unit. Read the full process in our review methodology.
PetSafe Bolt Interactive Laser Toy
★★★★★ 4.4 / 5 Best overall
The PetSafe Bolt projects a laser that darts across floors and walls in random patterns to trigger your cat's chase instinct. It has automatic and manual modes plus a timer for hands-free play. It is a favorite for burning off energy in active indoor cats.
Type Automatic laserFeature Random patternsNotable Auto-shutoff timer
- Encourages active chasing
- Hands-free auto mode
- Good for burning energy
- Pair with a physical toy since cats cannot catch a laser
- Needs batteries
Yeowww! Catnip Banana
★★★★★ 4.7 / 5 Best catnip toy
The Yeowww Banana is stuffed with potent organic catnip and no fillers, which sends many cats into happy rolling and kicking. It is a well-made, banana-shaped toy sized for bunny-kicking. Cats that respond to catnip tend to love it.
Fill Organic catnipMaterial Cotton twillNotable Made in USA
- Strong, pure catnip
- Durable stitching
- Great for kick and wrestle play
- Not all cats respond to catnip
- Potency fades and needs refreshing
Petstages Tower of Tracks Ball Track Toy
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 Best for solo play
The Tower of Tracks stacks three tiers of spinning balls your cat can bat and chase alone, which is handy when you are busy. The stable base keeps it from tipping during vigorous play. It is a simple, screen-free way to keep cats entertained.
Type Ball trackTiers Three levelsNotable No batteries
- Encourages independent play
- No batteries needed
- Sturdy, stable base
- Some cats lose interest over time
- Balls are fixed and not removable
SmartyKat Skitter Critters Catnip Mice Value Pack
★★★★★ 4.6 / 5 Best value
SmartyKat Skitter Critters are soft catnip-filled mice sold in multipacks, so you always have a spare when one gets batted under the couch. They are lightweight for easy tossing and carrying. They are an inexpensive way to learn what your cat likes.
Type Catnip miceCount MultipackNotable Lightweight
- Very affordable in multipacks
- Lightweight for batting
- Filled with catnip
- Lightweight toys get lost easily
- Seams can wear with rough play
Published July 16, 2026 · Availability last checked July 2026 · Reviewed by the UAI editorial team · How we research and score
Offer variety across play types
Cats enjoy chasing, pouncing, batting, and wrestling, so a mix of interactive, catnip, and solo toys covers different moods. Variety keeps play interesting and helps prevent boredom-related behavior.
Make time for interactive play
Wand toys and lasers let you guide the hunt and bond with your cat, and a couple of short daily sessions help burn energy. Always finish laser play with a catchable toy so the chase feels rewarding.
Keep toys safe and fresh
Check toys for loose parts, and remove string or small pieces that could be swallowed if left unsupervised. Rotate toys in and out and refresh catnip toys to keep your cat engaged.
Model numbers and safety
Each pick lists its model above. Product availability and recalls change, so confirm the exact model and its current recall status on cpsc.gov before buying.
More guides
See our full buying guides hub and our research and scoring methodology. Every pick is judged on the same weighted criteria: owner satisfaction, performance, ease of use, reliability and value.
Questions people ask
How many toys does a cat need?
A small rotating collection is better than a big static pile. Keep a mix of chase, catnip, and solo toys, and swap them every few days so they feel new and hold your cat's interest.
Do all cats like catnip?
No, sensitivity to catnip is inherited and a portion of cats do not react, and kittens usually do not respond until a few months old. Silvervine or honeysuckle can be good alternatives for cats that ignore catnip.
Are laser toys good for cats?
Lasers are great for exercise and chasing, but because a cat can never catch the dot, end sessions by letting your cat pounce on a physical toy or treat so the hunt feels complete.
The bottom lineSo which one?
The PetSafe Bolt is our overall pick for active indoor cats, the Yeowww Banana is the standout catnip toy, the Tower of Tracks keeps cats busy solo, and SmartyKat mice are the easy budget way to stock up.
