As soon as a kitten appears in the house, the need arises to purchase various household items intended for a new tailed friend. Little kittens are curious and active, so they will also need toys with which they can spend their leisure time in a fun way. Even adult cats are often interested in special toys that develop thinking, attention, dexterity and other useful skills in pets.
In the article we will look at why cats need toys, what to look for when choosing toys for kittens and adult cats, what types of toys there are for cats, and methods for teaching your pet to toys.
Why cats need games and toys
Cats are predators by nature. They have hunting instincts that need to be constantly developed. Animals with free access to the outdoors develop their natural skills in their natural environment, hunting for birds, small rodents and insects.
Special toys help domestic cats diversify their leisure time. Active games have a beneficial effect on the general physical condition and health of the pet.
Other benefits of cat toys:
- promote the development of natural instincts and skills;
- satisfy the cat's needs;
- provide positive emotions for the pet;
- Having its own toys, the cat loses interest in upholstered furniture and other products in the house, which allows you to keep household items intact.
Toys are especially necessary if there are two or more cats living in the house. With their help, animals relieve stress and take out all the negative energy on toys, maintaining peaceful friendly relations among themselves.
Tips for cat lovers
- Remember: your pet is a predator, and therefore he definitely needs to catch and kill (gnaw, bite) his prey. Fur, feathers, wool, threads in this case can become dangerous. The cat can swallow them, become entangled and choke. Such games must be carefully monitored, otherwise they may end in a visit to the veterinarian.
- One of the favorite and useful entertainments for cats is to get the mouse. A ball (for example, a ping pong ball), a Kinder Surprise egg with something rattling inside, a plastic bottle cap become the most interesting objects if they are hidden under a rug or under a box. Cheap and cheerful.
- Cats love to hide. Boxes from household appliances or shoes are ideal for this. And if there are several animals in the house, there is a chance to enjoy wars for a strategically attractive shelter.
- Each pet has its own preferences and favorite toys. It could be an old slipper, a chewed up mouse, a deflated ball, or a cocktail straw. Do not take this “garbage” away from the cat: if the animal chose it, then there are good reasons for it. Respect your pet's choice.
How to choose the right toys for cats
Pet stores offer a huge range of toys for cats and cats. You should select products according to certain rules.
How to choose a cat toy:
- The toy must be of high quality, made from environmentally friendly and safe materials.
- There should be no small or detachable parts on the toy.
- The owner must take into account the preferences of his tailed friend. Some cats love to play with wind-up mice, while others enthusiastically chase balls.
- For general development, you can buy your cat a multifunctional toy or developmental complex.
It is recommended to buy your cat several different toys so that she always has a choice. This will also allow the owner to determine the preferences of their furry friend.
Criteria for choosing a safe toy
When buying “trinkets” for pets, owners often choose pet supplies based on frivolous principles: “because it’s beautiful, funny,” “a friend has one, Barsik likes his, I should buy mine too.” And then they are surprised: the pet ignored the gift. In order not to make mistakes when choosing, you need to remember: each animal is individual. Before going to a pet store or looking at lots in an online store, you should take a closer look at your cat’s habits and remember the advice of your veterinarian. A thoughtful purchase will bring more satisfaction.
What to look for when going shopping at a pet store?
- High quality material
The best manufacturers take care of the health of pets using good raw materials. Counterfeits and low-quality goods have a strong artificial smell that will scare away animals and can cause an allergic reaction.
- Strength
Stitched models, decorated with glued elements, are only suitable for admiring at an unapproachable distance. Murka, with sharp claws and teeth, will instantly tear apart the fragile product, definitely taste the contents, and choke.
- Healthy color
A ball bought at a pet store at a ridiculous price, bright to the point of pain in the eyes, is dangerous. An unnatural color is the first sign that the model is made from questionable raw materials with synthetic harmful impurities. Such a gift to a pet will negatively affect its health.
- Suitable for cleaning
Hygiene is important for a healthy pet. Balls and mice that have repeatedly been in the cat's paws and teeth need to be washed from time to time so that the animal does not get sick.
- No small parts
For safety, it is better to purchase a whole product. A model consisting of many small elements will eventually begin to fall apart into “puzzles”; this is dangerous for the animal.
In an online store where there is no way to tactilely evaluate a product, you will have to be content with the information provided by the seller. When planning to order online, you should pay attention to:
- photo;
- product description;
- its characteristics;
- functional;
- brand;
- who is the manufacturer;
- customer reviews;
- price;
- guarantees;
- Payment Methods;
- delivery methods.
The last two points are important, given the large number of unscrupulous online sellers. The offer to immediately pay for the goods and delivery without an alternative - only by Russian post, raises suspicion. According to postal employees, it is not uncommon for customers to receive parcels containing garbage and unusable goods. It is impossible to return the money paid in 90 out of 100 cases.
Types of simple toys for cats
Simple toys are the most popular for cats, they are sold at a low price and are quite satisfactory for the animals. Among such products, balls, mice and pointers are in particular demand. Let's take a closer look.
Balls
Cat balls are small in size and made from different materials.
Kinds:
- jumpers;
- a ball with a bell or small ball inside;
- textile balls with catnip, stimulating the physical activity of the animal.
Pointers
The pointing toy creates a laser beam with a point of light that indoor cats love to chase. The owner controls the pointer. The kit may include additional attachments that transform the light point into the outlines of animals and other figures.
Mice
Cats love to chase mice, even if they are just a toy. Manufacturers of pet products offer artificial mice made of different materials: plastic, textile, sisal, rubber, with natural fur, etc. Such a toy can be static or mechanical. This is an interesting option for active play for your pet.
Mechanical toys
As a true hunter, a cat is attracted to movement, which means it will be interested in a toy moving across the floor. Of course, you can tie any ball or soft mouse to a string yourself and imitate its movement. But the best solution would be to buy a mechanical toy that is durable and has a long service life.
Mechanical toys are easy to operate. They are created in various forms - mice, fish, birds, etc., and can be soaked in catnip. With such a toy, the cat will never be bored, and a caring owner will be able to watch her active games from the side, where she can fully demonstrate her hunting skills.
Trixie - mouse in a trap
Country of origin : Germany
Price : 528 rub.
As we remember, in the cartoon “Tom and Jerry” the main characters could not live without each other! If you want your cat to never be bored, let him at least have an artificial friend - in a trap. A high-quality Trixie toy - a mouse in a trap - made in Germany.
At first, your cat will gradually take a closer look at the structure and want to pull the mouse out. But this is not an easy task! The mouse runs smoothly in a circle - let him try to catch it again. According to the manufacturer, the toy sharpens claws and supports natural care for them. Whether this is so is unknown, there are no reviews about it.
Electronic and battery-powered toys
Battery-powered toys and electronic models have a variety of functions and may have sound and light.
Some models of electronic toys are equipped with sensors that detect the smell of an approaching cat and trigger the game mechanism automatically.
Pet stores offer a large selection of such toys: electronic game plates, imitation fish, birds, mice on a wireless control panel, teasers, rotating balls, etc.
The best toys for kittens
Toys for kittens are characterized by their simple design and the absence of small parts. Some of them may appeal to adults.
Teaser with a ball and 6 Beeztees pompoms
The category opens with a simple toy, which is a plastic stick with a ball and fur pom-poms. She delights any kitten. By playing with a stick, the pet shows its predatory nature, splashes out adrenaline and develops physically.
This product will allow you to establish contact between the animal and the owner and have fun together. You can make the teaser at home yourself. However, the purchased model will last longer and looks more impressive. The toy costs about 250 rubles.
Advantages
- establishing contact with a person;
- strength;
- attracts any kitten.
Flaws
- enough for 2-3 months of play.
Trixie Running Mouse
The next line of review belongs to the Running Mouse plush toy. It runs on batteries and is covered in soft plush. The product moves in any direction. It stimulates the hunter's instinct and captivates the pet for a long time.
The main advantages of the toy include a reasonable price and an imitation of real mouse running. The cats are actively chasing the mouse, which is running away in an unpredictable direction. Buyers say the toy is “hard to kill.” Its vibration resembles a heartbeat and thus arouses great interest in the cat. Price – 390 rubles.
Advantages
- adequate price;
- active change of running direction;
- a lot of good reviews.
Flaws
Wobbler Petstages Track Hide&Seek (67744)
Unlike other participants in the review, the Hide&Seek Wobbler toy includes 3 products at once. This is an interactive track, a cardboard scratching post with mint, a jingling ball and a fluffy with a feather. A wobbler is a tumbler that rolls in different directions. Its scent attracts cats. Pets quickly remove the textile ball from the set.
Owners love to watch the animal try to get toys out of the cardboard track. The product will not get lost behind furniture, unlike other small products. Soft textiles are pleasant to the touch and are comfortable for cats to grab with their claws. Price – 815 rubles.
Advantages
- will not get lost behind the furniture;
- combines 3 toys;
- catnip to attract attention.
Flaws
Beroma cat toy
You can’t ignore the well-known laser pointer, which allows you to play with a kitten without getting up from your chair. The toy has excellent brightness and does not cause discomfort to the four-legged creature. Kittens happily jump and run after the dot, not even realizing that it is impossible to catch it.
Adults also like the interactive pointer. No pet will remain indifferent to such a toy. Buyers have no complaints about the quality of the laser. I'm glad that the batteries are included. True, if you overdo it with the game, the kitten will become very overexcited. Price – 400 rubles.
Advantages
- all cats like it;
- doesn't get boring;
- runs on batteries included in the kit.
Flaws
- the owner must be involved.
Interactive toys for cats
Interactive educational toys for cats are presented in a wide variety. They develop the mental and physical abilities of a pet well, allowing them to spend time fun and enthusiastically without distracting the owner from important matters.
Types of interactive toys for cats:
- ball track;
- game “Catch the Mouse”;
- game track “Pyramid”;
- radio controlled mice;
- massagers;
- tease toys, etc.
Siberian cat - teaser with 3 balls
Country of origin : Russia
Price : 100 rub.
Such a toy will definitely captivate a kitten, but can it interest an adult cat? This is a question, but it's worth checking! Siberian cat - teaser with 3 balls is made in the form of a fishing rod - if desired, you can throw it on your pet’s head or back to attract attention.
There are 3 multi-colored balls on the fishing rod. It doesn't mean much to the cat, but you should definitely like it. According to the manufacturer, the toy is suitable for all ages and breeds of cats, and helps maintain an active lifestyle for your pet.
For reference: two materials were used to create the teaser toy: rubber and plastic. When playing, do not squeeze the stick too hard - it may break.
Food toys and chew toys
For a cat that doesn't eat in moderation, you can buy a food labyrinth. The owner will pour food into special holes, and in order to get food from the toy the pet will have to show dexterity and intelligence. Such products perfectly develop the cat’s intellectual skills and prevent overeating, which prevents the risk of obesity.
Toys with food are presented in different variations: with rotating elements, with plastic cups, with balls, tubes, adjustable holes, etc.
Chew toys are also beneficial for cats to help maintain dental health. They are made in the form of different shapes and have a textured or mesh surface. Can be filled with compressed mint leaves for fresh breath. Among the chewing toys, rubber products impregnated with catnip oil are also popular.
6. Xiaomi Petoneer Pet Smart Companion Play Ball
Country of origin : China
Price : 1,290 rub.
The Xiaomi Petoneer Pet Smart Companion Play Ball toy will be appreciated not only by cats, but also by dogs. One of the buyers wrote that his cat was scared of the ball, and now it lies idle. It is worth remembering that all animals are different and should not react the same way.
The toy from the Chinese manufacturer avoids obstacles well, makes sound and lights up. To make it more interesting for the cat to chase the sword, there are holes in it - something else can be tied to them. The downside is that the toy bangs loudly against corners and walls, so don’t play with it when your household is sleeping.
How to teach a cat to play with toys
Some kittens immediately show interest in new toys, while others have to be accustomed to a foreign object using various tricks.
How to accustom a cat to toys:
- Try to guess the cat's desire and choose a toy that will definitely arouse her interest. See what she likes to do in her free time. If she enthusiastically chases insects flying in the air, buy an interactive or mechanical toy that imitates real game. If your cat rolls a ball of thread or other objects that come its way across the floor, buy her a ball or a whole play set with a surprise.
- Give your cat a new toy to explore and get to know.
- Play with your cat with a new toy, imitating different movements. A cat, like a true hunter, will definitely show interest in a moving object.
- Try hiding the toy under a paper bag or in a cardboard box. Draw your cat's attention to the hidden object with a rustling sound. This can arouse interest in a bored pet and make you want to actively play with a new toy.
- If your cat doesn’t want to play with toys at all, use catnip to stir up interest in active games. It is absolutely harmless and safe for cats. Its smell awakens the playful mood in cats. You can buy a ready-made toy filled with catnip.
Observe your cat and try to choose toys that suit her interests and preferences.
10. Lanyu Model Scolopendra Leyu
Country of origin : China
Price : RUR 1,199
If your pet has strong nerves, you can present him with such a “surprise” in the form of a centipede (just don’t fall from fright!) The radio-controlled centipede with silicone legs operates from a remote control. When moving, her tail rattles.
Meeting a centipede is always a stressful event. Despite the fact that the insect does not harm humans, it frightens with the abundance of legs. Don't risk scaring Lanyu Model Scolopendra Leyu household members, otherwise they may get a phobia for life.
But seals are more resistant to various insects; perhaps your pet will enjoy chasing a centipede.
Laser pointers
Gone are the days when cat owners were content with paper bows tied to a string. New technologies have taken their place.
Laser pointers purchased from office supply stores have quickly become a favorite of cat owners. And this is not at all surprising: you can play with an animal while sitting on the sofa. You just need to press the button and enjoy watching the cat unsuccessfully try to catch the red light.
In this failure lies the main danger.
In order for the game not to harm the animal, the prey must be caught sooner or later. If this does not happen, the pet experiences dissonance.
The hunting program laid down at the genetic level goes astray. The result is a nervous disorder, which can be expressed in changes in behavior and the appearance of habits that are unpleasant for the owners. For example, their favorite shoes can turn into a new cat litter box.
Another important point is that the laser is unsafe for the retina of the eye. Playing with a pointer can lead to partial or complete loss of your cat's vision. So the pleasure of laughing at funny jumps is worth a lot.
Safety precautions
It is important to ensure that the toy does not harm your pet’s health, but brings him only positive emotions. To do this, it is important to pay attention to such points as:
- The material from which the toy was made may vary, but the presence of a strong odor should serve as an alarming signal. This is due to the fact that a) sharp and unpleasant odors can scare away the pet; b) this fact indicates that the raw materials of the product are of low quality, and this is at least dangerous to the health of the furry;
- if the color of the toy is too bright, one might even say poisonous, then this may serve as a signal that the toy is made from low-quality raw materials, which have a high level of concentration of toxic substances and can harm the health of the pet;
- If the toy is based on feathers, various piles, threads, the owner should carefully check them for strength. Provided that they easily come off entirely or are somehow partially deformed, you cannot buy such a toy, the animal can tear off some element, swallow it, choke, etc.;
- In addition, there is no need to purchase toys with excessively small parts that the cat could easily bite off and swallow;
- It is also important how easily the toy can be cleaned. The more convenient it is to wash, the longer it will last. Germs and bacteria will not multiply as actively, and the risk of animal illness will be reduced.
An attentive and loving owner must remember that only a high-quality toy can benefit his pet, so you should not be lazy in choosing a high-quality one or even skimping on your pet.
To summarize all of the above, it should be concluded that the game is the key to the physical, mental and emotional health of the furry. Although only fluffy? This is no less important for the owner. After all, everyone knows that nothing relieves stress like communicating with a cat.
Some owners prefer to make toys for kittens with their own hands. Often they turn out no worse than store-bought ones. To do this, you only need free time, imagination and a lot of love for your pet.
Tags: education, Health
