Short answer: the best cat toys copy hunting. Wand toys you move like prey, tunnels to hide and pounce from, puzzle feeders that make cats work for food, and small balls or kickers they can bat and bunny-kick. Most indoor cats need two 10–15 minute play sessions a day. Rotate toys every few days so they stay new, and put away anything with strings when you can’t supervise.
Why indoor cats need toys
Cats are built to hunt many small meals a day. Indoors, with food in a bowl, that energy has to go somewhere: chewing wires, scratching the sofa, 3 a.m. zoomies, over-grooming or gaining weight. Regular play gives a safe outlet, keeps cats fit and builds trust between you and your cat. It matters even more in flats, where space is limited.
9 types of cat toys and what they’re good for
| Toy type | Best for | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Wand / feather teaser | Every cat; the best toy for bonding | Move it away from your cat and hide it behind furniture, like real prey |
| Cat tunnel | Shy cats, kittens, multi-cat homes | Toss a ball through it or drag a wand past the opening |
| Puzzle feeder / treat ball | Fast eaters, bored or overweight cats | Start easy so your cat succeeds quickly |
| Small balls (crinkle, bell, ping-pong) | Solo play, kittens | Use a hard floor; cats love chasing balls that skid |
| Kicker toys | Cats that grab and bunny-kick | Catnip-filled kickers excite most adult cats |
| Scratchers with toys | Cats that scratch furniture | Combine play and scratching in one spot |
| Climbing shelves | Active cats, small flats | Vertical space counts as play space |
| Catnip and silvervine toys | A quick burst of excitement | Not every cat reacts; kittens usually don’t until around 6 months |
| Window perch | “Cat TV” during the day | Birds and street life keep cats entertained while you’re out |
How to play with your cat (the right way)
- Hunt, catch, eat: let your cat stalk and chase, then actually catch the toy. Finish with a small meal or treat. This calms cats and prevents frustration.
- Move like prey: slow, then fast; across the floor, then hiding. Never wave a toy straight into your cat’s face.
- Short and often: two or three sessions of 10–15 minutes beat one long session.
- Best times: before meals and in the evening, when cats are naturally most active.
- Never use hands or feet as toys. It teaches biting and scratching people.
Keeping toys interesting
- Keep only 3–4 toys out at a time and swap them every few days.
- Store toys in a closed box with a little catnip to “refresh” them.
- Laser pointers are fine occasionally, but always end on a real toy your cat can catch, or they can get frustrated.
Cat toy safety
- Put wand toys, strings, ribbons and elastic away after play. Swallowed string is a veterinary emergency.
- Throw away toys with loose parts, torn stuffing or small bells that could come off.
- Never use rubber bands, hair ties or sewing thread as toys.
- Choose toys sized for your cat; very small items can be swallowed.
Our picks
- 3-way crinkle cat tunnel with hanging balls: hiding, pouncing and solo play in one.
- Cardboard scratcher sofa lounger: scratching plus a favourite nap spot.
- Wall-mounted cat climbing shelf: vertical play for flats; see our cat wall shelves guide.
See all our cat toys and cat scratchers, with free shipping and Cash on Delivery across India. If your cat scratches furniture out of boredom, read how to stop your cat scratching the sofa.
Frequently asked questions
How much playtime does an indoor cat need?
Around 20–30 minutes a day in two or three short sessions suits most adult cats. Kittens and young cats often want more.
Why does my cat ignore new toys?
Most toys only come alive when they move. Try a wand toy moved like prey, and rotate toys so they feel new.
Are cat toys safe for kittens?
Yes, if they have no small loose parts. Always supervise play with string or feather toys.