Unleashing the Future: Must-Have Tech Cat Toys of 2023
Discover the ultimate selection of tech cat toys for 2023 Boost your feline's health and happiness with our top picks, including self-propelled and remote-controlled options Engage your cat with the best wand, catnip, and multi-activity toys, as well as puzzle feeders FAQs address concerns about laser toys, nighttime toy storage, and playtime duration
Cats adore playing, so why not treat your adorable feline with the finest cat toys money can purchase? The great news is that the most superior toys don't always come with a hefty price tag.
HEXBUG Nano Flash
$15 at Amazon
Sphero Mini
$20 at Amazon
Go Cat Da Bird
$19 at Amazon
Ducky World Yeowww! Catnip Lady Krinkle Bug
$14 at Amazon
KONG Cat Active Eight Track
$20 at Amazon
See More
$13 at Amazon
Why We Recommended These Cat Toys
Finding the perfect cat toy is a challenge, as what appeals to one cat may not interest another. While some cats enjoy playing with boxes and twist ties, others are oblivious to new toys. Discovering what toys your cat enjoys may require some trial and error. Instead of investing in expensive toys that your cat may ignore, it is often the simplest toys that provide the most enjoyment.
Cats tend to lose interest in automated toys quickly. Laser pointers and spinning mice can't compare to the fun they have when playing with you, their favorite toy. The toys listed below are all more enjoyable when you join in, and some of them require human technology to work.
By actively participating in play sessions, you can strengthen your bond with your cat. Additionally, ending the session naturally when your cat becomes tired, either by letting them "catch" the prey or giving them a treat, is beneficial. While it's good to have some toys readily available for your cat to play with, others should be rotated out periodically to maintain their interest.
While certain toys may not appear to be highly advanced, they can captivate your cat completely. A prime example is a wand toy that mimics the behavior of prey, exhibiting unpredictable movements that are likely to attract and retain your cat's attention. There are also toys available that offer both auditory and visual stimulation, serving to engage cats effectively. Moreover, some toys can be utilized in combination with treats to foster participation and provide a rewarding experience that your cat will thoroughly enjoy.
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How-To Geek's product recommendations originate from our team of experts who have assisted individuals in resolving their gadget issues more than one billion times. Our recommendations are solely based on thorough research and our own expertise. We do not accept any form of payment for endorsing or reviewing products. Read More »
Best Self-Propelled Cat Toy: HEXBUG Nano Flash
Spin Master
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Behaves like a real insect | Your cat can’t actually eat them like a real bug |
Unpredictable movement should capture your cat’s attention | |
Batteries included |
The HEXBUG Nano Flash is one of the best options among "automated" toys available. Although they need to be turned on, these small creatures will scurry around the floor in a way that resembles insects, captivating your feline friend. They are lightweight, perfect for your cat to play with, and not loud enough to startle skittish cats. The latest version, called "Flash," glows and moves even faster than the original, making it a favorite among both parents and cat owners.
The HEXBUG Nano Flash operates with a vibrating motor, empowering it to move forward. Upon colliding with objects or engaging with your cat, it will alter its direction and scurry away. This model requires two LR44 button batteries, which are included.
HEXBUG Nano Flash
These lightweight, battery-powered "bugs" that scuttle across the floor, making them a perfect toy for kids and cats alike.
$15 at Amazon
Best Remote-Controlled Cat Toy: Sphero Mini
Sphero
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Remote controllable ping pong ball-sized robot | Motor may still be too loud for some cats |
Control it with your phone directly | Requires charging |
Can be programmed too |
The Sphero Mini, made by Sphero, is a small robot that can be controlled and programmed remotely. Known for their previous models being bulky, weighty, and costly, Sphero has taken a new approach with the Sphero Mini. This version of the robot is about the size of a ping-pong ball, making it more suitable and enjoyable for cats.
The Sphero Mini is a smartphone-controlled ball that is smaller and lighter than its older models, making it more suitable for cats. Despite that, I still enjoy watching my cat chase BB-8 around the house. Unlike the previous models, this ball can be opened for charging, eliminating the need for induction charging or bulky base stations.
To control the ball directly, download the Sphero Play app for iPhone and Android. Alternatively, download the Sphero Edu app to start programming the ball. With a top speed of 2.2 mph and a range of approximately 30ft, the robot offers a solid hour of playtime before requiring a charge. Simply use the included USB charging cord for easy and convenient charging.
Get the Sphero Mini Now
Save $5 on the Sphero Mini, a remarkable robot the size of a ping-pong ball. Control it effortlessly using your iPhone or Android smartphone. Ideal for entertaining cats with its irresistible chase game. Offer valid for a limited time.
$20 at Amazon
Best Cat Wand Toy: Go Cat Da Bird
Go Cat
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Probably the best wand toy you can buy | Cord can be prone to tangling |
Sturdy construction | Expect to spend more money on replacement attachments because your cat is going to lose it |
Lots of attachments available; some are even repairable |
Cat wands rely on your cat's involvement, making you the most advanced piece of technology in your cat's life. After observing and testing various wand toys, I can confidently say that the Go Cat Da Bird is unmatched. It never fails to surprise me how mesmerized my cats are by these wands. If you want a toy that will truly engage your cat and encourage movement, this is the perfect recommendation.
Not only is the wand itself sturdy and able to endure rough play, but I have yet to experience any issues with the cord snapping (although it can sometimes tangle). The attached feather accessory rotates while you wave the wand, creating the illusion of a bird or butterfly in motion. This captivating feature drives cats into a frenzy.
Once your cat has shredded the included attachment (which is bound to happen), you have the option to purchase additional attachments in various styles. One of my cats adores the feather attachment, while the other is more inclined towards the sparkler attachment. The good news is that you can easily interchange them, and we have even managed to successfully mend the old attachments ourselves.
Go Cat Da Bird
$19 $20 Save $1 A wand toy with replaceable attachments that is bound to get your cat up and about.
$19 at Amazon
Best Catnip Toy: Ducky World Yeowww Catnip Lady Krinkle Bug
Ducky World
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Probably the most potent catnip toys on the market | Not all cats are affected by catnip, so they might not work on your cat |
Now with crinkling noises | Eventually loses its potency |
Cheap enough to replace often |
The Ducky World Yeowww Catnip Lady Krinkle Bug stands out from the rest. It possesses an unparalleled potency that sets it apart from other catnip varieties available in the market. Based on my cats’ encounters, it almost reaches the levels of freshly grown catnip, delivering intoxicating effects.
This cat toy goes beyond the ordinary - it not only stimulates your cat's brain activity but also makes a crinkling sound when played with. If your cat is among the two-thirds that are responsive to catnip, then any toy from the Ducky World range will make them happy. Another great option is the Yeowww Pollock Catnip Fish kicker, which your cat will hopefully enjoy chewing and kicking. These toys are made from cotton, allowing for easy repair when the catnip starts to spill out. To maintain their freshness, it is recommended to store catnip toys in a bag until playtime and replace them when they lose their potent scent.
Ducky World Yeowww! Catnip Lady Krinkle Bug
Probably the most potent catnip toys on the market, now with crinkling action!
$14 at Amazon
Best Multi-Activity Toy: KONG Cat Active Eight-Track
KONG
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Balls contained within a figure-eight track which your cat can bat around | Cats can tire of the game over time, particularly as they get older |
Includes kicker and feather toy | It’s a bit noisy, so not ideal for bedtime or working from home |
Put treats in it to keep things exciting |
KONG offers a wide range of toys for cats and dogs, but the KONG Cat Active Eight Track has proven to be exceptionally entertaining for our feline friends. This compact and interactive activity center features a figure-eight design, two balls with bells inside, a kicker tail, and a feather that springs back when batted by your cats.
The lightweight balls are slightly larger than the opening that encircles the figure-eight, ensuring that your cat can reach inside to play with them, while also preventing them from escaping. This makes it an ideal toy that can be easily stored away for moments of tranquility.
We have thoroughly enjoyed experimenting with different treats and catnip toys inserted into the track, resulting in a continuous source of fresh and interesting activities. The addition of a kicker, which triggers the bells to produce a pleasing noise, and a feather, was a delightful feature. However, it must be confessed that our cats were so fond of playing with it that the feather disappeared a while ago.
Similar to other toys, the initial appeal may diminish with time. Nevertheless, the variety of engaging elements in this toy makes it a highly recommended choice for inquisitive felines.
KONG Cat Active Eight Track
The KONG Active Eight Track is a self-contained figure eight cat toy with two balls, a kicker, and a feather toy.
$20 at Amazon
Best Puzzle Feeder: Pet Zone IQ Treat Ball
Pet Zone
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
Turn mealtime into a game and keep cats engaged for longer | These feeders work best on strongly foot-motivated cats |
Slow down fast eaters |
Transforming meal and treat time into an interactive game, the Pet Zone IQ Treat Ball serves as a puzzle feeder rather than a typical toy. Affordable and effective, it challenges your cat's intellect while satisfying their hunger. By placing treats or food inside and adjusting the difficulty level, your cat can spend quality time strategizing their way to the reward.
Beyond mere entertainment, puzzle feeders offer practical benefits for your feline companion. If your cat tends to eat too quickly, using a puzzle feeder like this can help regulate their pace. Additionally, if your cat has a tendency to steal food from your other feline friend, providing them with a feeding ball can redirect their attention, allowing your other cat to eat in peace.
These balls are ideal for cats that have a strong food motivation, as they will persist in extracting every last treat from the ball. If your cat is engaged by these feeders, it is recommended to invest in multiple balls to ensure ongoing stimulation and variety.
Pet Zone IQ Treat Ball
$13 $15 Save $2 Turn meals and treats into a fun game with a puzzle feeder, complete with adjustable difficulty settings.
$13 at Amazon
FAQ
Are laser toys good for cats?
Although some cats enjoy chasing laser pointers, there is conflicting evidence regarding whether they make good cat toys. In general, it is considered safe to use a laser pen as long as there is some form of reward at the end of the chase. This reward could be a treat, a meal, or the opportunity to "catch" a soft toy acting as prey.
We have excluded automated laser toys from this review because professionals have expressed concern that they may leave cats feeling frustrated. Playing a game where winning is impossible and the cat associates winning with catching prey is not enjoyable for anyone.
Should I put cat toys away at night?
It is suggested by certain cat experts to put away all cat toys once playtime comes to an end. However, certain cats may opt to play with non-cat toys, such as your furniture, instead. Finding a balance between your cat's personality and your desire for a clean living room is necessary.
It’s advisable to rotate cat toys to prevent them from becoming bored with the same items. Removing a toy can maintain its excitement. Certain cat toys, particularly those that your cat becomes fixated on, are definitely worth storing away for your cat’s safety.
Should I limit how long my cats play with their toys?
Cat experts suggest allowing your cat to dictate when playtime draws to a close. While some cats can engage in play for what feels like an eternity, others will simply walk away, and you can utilize these cues to ascertain when playtime should conclude. The key factor lies in allocating dedicated time each day to engage in multiple play sessions with your cat.
