Hey Lykkers! We all know how playful and curious our furry friends are, and if you've ever observed a cat's graceful movements and sharp instincts, you'll realize they're natural-born hunters.

But in today's world, where cats live in our homes instead of the wild, their instincts can be stifled. That's where toys come in! They help satisfy their natural hunting instincts and keep them healthy.

With so many toys available, how do we pick the right ones for our cats? Let's dive into how we can choose the best toys for our beloved kitties!

Why Do Cats Need Toys?

Studies show that most cats need at least 8 hours a day to practice their hunting skills. As cat parents, we need to provide them with the right space and equipment. That's where toys come in—they give our cats a chance to engage in natural behaviors, even when indoors.

In fact, a study from the UK revealed that cats damage over £340 million worth of items each year, making them the second-most destructive pets, right after dogs! So, to save our precious furniture from becoming their prey, we absolutely need some toys to distract them.

Moreover, with increasing concerns over feline depression, it's crucial to keep our cats mentally stimulated. According to research from the University of Michigan, 30% of cats suffer from depression to varying degrees. Playing with toys not only strengthens the bond between us and our pets, but it also significantly reduces the likelihood of depression, keeping our cats happy and content.

4 Things to Consider When Choosing Cat Toys

1) Choose Based on Your Cat's Age

Kittens are small and curious, and their main goal at this stage is to explore the world around them. At this time, it's important to choose toys that will help train them in everyday skills and promote affectionate behavior. For example, toys that help with teething issues can be helpful. However, as cats grow into adults, their interest in toys may decrease. To keep them physically active and prevent obesity, we may need to choose more dynamic toys, like motorized ones, to engage their attention and encourage play.

2) Choose Interactive Toys

Toys are designed to tap into a cat's natural hunting instinct. Cats love chasing fast-moving little animals like birds or mice. Interactive toys like feather wands and elastic toys are perfect for exciting and stimulating your cat. These toys will get your cat moving, jumping, and playing—just like they would in the wild!

3) Avoid Toys with Strong Odors

Scented toys use herbs like catnip to trigger a pleasurable response in your cat's brain. While these are safe and natural, the scent can affect their nervous system. Though the effect is mild, prolonged exposure may have negative consequences. Therefore, it's a good idea to limit the time your cat spends with scented toys to about an hour a day to avoid overstimulation.

4) Cats Love New Toys

If you notice your cat isn't interested in their old toys, it's likely they've grown bored of them or the toys have absorbed their scent. A great tip is to buy toys that can be easily cleaned, so when your cat gets tired of them, you can clean and store them for a while. Later, when you bring them out again, your cat will treat them as brand new!

6 Addictive Cat Toys Your Cat Will Love

1) Cat Scratching Boards & Posts

Scratching boards are one of the best ways for cats to relieve stress and sharpen their claws. These inexpensive yet effective toys help stop your cat from scratching your furniture. There are two main types of scratching boards: corrugated cardboard ones, which are affordable but not very durable, and those made from sisal, which are more stylish and durable. These scratching posts also double as great home decor pieces!

2) Cat Trees

Cat trees give cats their own personal space to scratch, climb, and relax. The vertical poles are perfect for sharpening claws and relieving stress. Ever since the invention of the cat tree by an American animal expert, they have become a popular choice among cat owners. Cat trees come in various designs and sizes, making them a perfect addition to any home.

3) Cat Hammocks

Every indoor cat dreams of being outdoors. While they can't step outside, sitting by a window on a hammock can be just as satisfying. Like how we all love sitting by a window to enjoy the view, a cat hammock provides the perfect spot for your cat to rest while observing the world outside.

4) Cat Wands

One of the first toys every cat owner should get is a cat wand. This is an excellent toy for bonding with your cat and engaging in interactive play. Feather wands, in particular, are highly recommended. You can mimic the flight path of a bird, which will make your cat excited to chase it. These toys help improve your cat's hunting skills as they jump and pounce, mimicking their natural instincts.

5) Silvervine Sticks

Silvervine is one of the most beloved plants for cats. It helps calm them down and even stimulates their appetite. Biting silvervine sticks helps cats clean their teeth while offering mental stimulation. Many of Zezelife's chew toys include silvervine elements, which makes them incredibly attractive to cats.

6) Catnip Toys

Catnip is a harmless herb that stimulates a cat's pheromones, making them feel euphoric and playful. The fiber in catnip also helps freshen your cat's breath. Zezelife's cat toys are often infused with catnip, making them irresistible to your feline friend. While most catnip toys are shaped like mice or fish, Zezelife offers unique designs, like apples and oranges, which will surely grab your cat's attention.

Conclusion: Keeping Your Cat Happy and Engaged

There you have it, Lykkers! Choosing the right cat toys is essential for keeping our feline friends happy, healthy, and engaged. By selecting toys that stimulate their natural instincts, we can ensure our cats lead a fulfilling life, even indoors. So, what are your cat's favorite toys? Let us know in the comments!