I see my friend’s cat in summer, and honestly, it’s just one big sleepy noodle under the fan. All day she keeps texting me saying, ‘I don’t know what toy to give her, she just looks bored and then goes back to sleep.’ We’ll stand in front of a whole pile of toys and still be like, " Nope, this one she’ll ignore, this one she’ll sniff once and walk away.

If you’ve also looked at your cat and thought, ‘What do I even get you so you play for at least five minutes without giving me attitude?’ you’re not alone. That’s exactly where this blog from Supertails comes in - simple, summer-friendly toys that your cat might actually enjoy, and you won’t feel like you wasted money, again.

Key Takeaways

• The SmartyKat Skitter Slices Plush Cat Toy with Catnip comes in a pack of five and is great for batting and chasing.

• For interactive fun, the KONG Rave Cave Cat Tunnel offers a crinkly hideaway with dangling toys.

• The Petstages Tower of Tracks provides a multi-level ball-chasing experience that cats can enjoy independently.

• The Cat Dancer Rainbow Cat Charmer is a classic wand toy that encourages active play and hunting instincts.

• Consider puzzle toys like the Trixie 5-in-1 Activity Centre to engage your cat's mind and reward them with treats.

  
  

1. Plush Cat Toy with Catnip

If you're looking for a simple, engaging toy that your cat can really sink their teeth into (literally!), Plush Cat Toy with Catnip might be just the ticket. These aren't just any old cat toys; they're designed to look like little mice, complete with fruit-themed patterns like watermelon and lime slices. They come stuffed with catnip, which is usually a surefire way to get even the most laid-back feline interested.

These little guys are lightweight and easy for your cat to bat around, carry in their mouth, or toss up in the air. They're also a good size for a successful 'hunt' after a good chase. Plus, the bright colours make them easier to spot when they inevitably end up under the sofa or in a dusty corner. It's a small detail, but honestly, it makes a difference when you're trying to keep track of all those little toys.

Here's a quick rundown:

• What's Inside: Each toy is packed with catnip.

• Design: Cute, fruit-themed mouse shapes.

• Material: The fiberfill is made from 100% recycled plastic, which is a nice touch.

• Play Style: Great for batting, chasing, and carrying.

One thing to note is that while they're great for a quick play session, they aren't refillable. Once the catnip scent fades, you'll likely need to replace it. But for the price, you get a pack of five, so it's not a huge deal. They're a fun, inexpensive way to keep your cat entertained, especially during those warmer months when they might be looking for a little extra stimulation indoors.

Worth Reading: Cat Playtime - How It Plays An Important Role

2. Tunnel For Kitten And Cats

A tunnel for kittens and cats is a fun little hideaway, perfect for summer when they want a cool, shaded spot to sneak into and chill. It usually pops open super fast, so you’re not stuck struggling with setup while your cat is already sniffing around and waiting to explore. Many tunnels are designed to instantly turn any corner of your home into a mini playground.

What makes these tunnels exciting is the way they’re built to trigger your cat’s natural curiosity. Crinkly or light-catching fabric, plus dangling toys at the entrances, encourage batting, pouncing, and zooming through from one end to the other. When they’re done playing, the tunnel collapses easily, which is great if you don’t have a lot of space and prefer toys that can be tucked away between play sessions.

Here’s a quick look at what it offers:

• Easy Setup: Springs open in seconds, no complicated assembly.

• Interactive Features: Crinkle textures, light-catching material, and dangling toys to keep paws busy.

• Convenient Storage: Collapsible design that folds flat when not in use.

Some cats will go wild for the sounds and textures, while others might just enjoy using it as a quiet hiding or napping spot. The size of the tunnel can be a bit snug for very large breeds, so it tends to work best for kittens and smaller to medium-sized adult cats who love games of hide-and-seek and surprise pounces.

3. Tower of Tracks Cat Toy

This toy is a classic for a reason. The Tower of Tracks features three levels, each with its own set of balls that spin and roll around a track. Your cat can bat at the balls from any angle, keeping them engaged and entertained. It's designed so the balls stay contained within the track, meaning less chasing after runaway toys.

It's a great option for independent play, which is perfect for those times you can't actively play with your feline friend. We've seen cats of all ages, from kittens to seniors, take to this toy right away. It's also a good choice if you have multiple cats, as they can often play with it together without too much fuss.

Here's a quick look at what makes it stand out:

• Paw-powered fun: Cats activate the balls themselves by batting at them.

• Multi-level engagement: Three tiers offer varied play angles and opportunities.

• Ball containment: Balls stay on the track, reducing the need for you to retrieve them.

• Non-slip base: Keeps the toy stable during enthusiastic play sessions.

One thing to note is that it can get a bit noisy when the balls are rolling around, so if your cat is sensitive to sound, keep that in mind. But for most cats, the satisfying sound of the rolling balls is part of the fun. It's a simple concept, but it really taps into a cat's natural instinct to swat and chase. You can find similar interactive toys designed to keep your cat busy, like this KittuPet Cat Toy Level Towers.

This toy is ready to go right out of the box, making it super convenient for immediate playtime. Just place it on the floor and let your cat discover the fun.

5-in-1 Activity Center

If your cat is all about the snacks, then the 5-in-1 Activity Centre might be the perfect summer diversion. This thing is basically a mat with a bunch of different puzzle elements built right in. You can hide treats or kibble in the various little nooks and crannies, and your cat has to figure out how to get them out. It's a great way to keep their minds busy, especially when it's too hot to play outside.

What's cool is that it's designed so multiple cats can use it at the same time. So, if you have more than one feline friend, they don't have to fight over who gets to play. Plus, it's made from BPA-free plastic, which is always a good thing, and it's surprisingly quiet when they're busy working on their treat puzzles. You can even switch up where you hide the treats to keep things interesting.

Here's a quick rundown of what it offers:

• Five different types of puzzle challenges.

• Multiple spots to hide treats, keeping it engaging.

• Durable construction for plenty of play.

• Suitable for more than one cat at once.

Just a heads-up, you'll need to hand-wash this one. It's not machine washable, so be prepared for a little extra effort when it's time for a clean.

This toy is a solid choice for any cat that loves a good challenge, especially if they're motivated by food. It's a simple concept, but it really taps into their natural hunting instincts in a fun, indoor way.

Bonus Read: Cat Care Made Easy: Your Essential Guide to a Happy Feline Life

5. Ripple Rug Cat Activity Play Mat

This isn't your average cat toy; it's more like a whole interactive playground designed to keep your feline friend busy. The Ripple Rug is basically a large, flat mat made from a durable, felt-like material that cats seem to love. It has a non-slip bottom, which is good because cats can get pretty energetic when they're playing.

What makes it special are the various-sized holes scattered across the top. You can actually customise the layout by velcroing different sections together, creating tunnels, hiding spots, and platforms. It’s like a build-your-own adventure for your cat. My cats went nuts for it, popping their heads through the holes, pouncing into the little cubbies, and even just lounging on top. It really taps into their natural instincts for hunting and hiding.

Here’s a quick rundown of what it offers:

• Customizable Play Zones: Reconfigure the mat to create new challenges.

• Multiple Play Options: Cats can hide, pounce, scratch, or lounge.

• Durable Material: Built to withstand enthusiastic play.

• Felt-like Texture: Great for catching loose fur.

It's pretty big, so if you have a small apartment, it might take up a good chunk of space. Cleaning it can be a bit of a chore, too; while you can spot clean or vacuum it, a deep clean means a hose-down and air dry. Still, the amount of engagement it provides makes it a worthwhile addition for many cats, especially if you want to give them something new to explore regularly.

6. Cat Wand Toy Ultimate Feather Teaser

This wand toy is pretty neat for getting your cat moving. It’s got this extra-long wand and string, giving your feline friend plenty of space to jump and chase. Seriously, don't be surprised if your cat starts doing backflips. It comes with two fluffy feather lures that attach easily with a little clasp.

I like that the wand itself seems pretty sturdy, and the grip is padded, which is nice when you're playing for a while. The cool thing is, if the feathers get a bit beat up, you can swap them out for other lures that have a loop. That means the wand can last a long time.

However, this toy is best for bigger rooms. The wand and string are quite long, so if you're in a small apartment or a room packed with furniture, it might feel a bit awkward to play with. You want your cat to have room to really go for it, right?

• Pros:

  • Long wand and string for active play

  • Comfortable grip

  • Replaceable lures

• Cons:

  • Not great for small spaces

  • The wand might need assembly

Nounou Cat Toy

This toy is pretty neat. It's basically a long, cushioned tube made of nylon-threaded fabric that you can bend and tie into all sorts of shapes. It's designed to be really versatile, letting you customise how your cat plays with it. Inside, there are two little bells that jingle, which is a nice touch to grab your cat's attention. You can also tuck treats into the knots you make, turning it into a fun foraging game.

It's a bit on the larger side, measuring about 48 inches when fully extended, so it's probably best for adult cats rather than tiny kittens. Cats that love to wrestle and kick will likely get a kick out of this one. It feels pretty well-made, too, with a modern look that doesn't scream 'cheap cat toy'.

• Bendable tube design

• Internal bells for sound attraction

• Can hide treats for extra fun

• Durable for kicking play

While it's great for kicking and wrestling, the size might be a bit much for very young or small cats. It's definitely geared towards cats who enjoy a good pounce and wrestle.

It's a good option if you're looking for something a bit different from the usual mouse or feather toys. The ability to change its shape means it can offer a new challenge, and the hidden treat aspect adds another layer of engagement.

Electronic Concealed Motion Cat Toy

This automatic toy is pretty neat for keeping your cat entertained, especially when you're busy. It's got this circular mat that a little wand peeks out from, moving around underneath. The idea is to mimic prey that's partially hidden, which really gets cats interested in hunting. It runs on batteries and has different speeds and flashing lights to keep things exciting.

It's a good way to tap into your cat's natural hunting instincts without them having to chase a real mouse. Just pop in some batteries, turn it on, and let the fun begin.

Here's a quick rundown:

• Motion: A wand moves in circles under a mat.

• Stimulation: Different speeds and lights keep it engaging.

• Instinct: Encourages natural hunting and pouncing behaviours.

One thing to watch out for is that the wand can sometimes come loose or get a bit tangled in the mat, which can be a little annoying. But overall, it's a solid choice for a bit of automated fun.

Motion-Activated Laser Toy

This little gadget is pretty neat for keeping your cat entertained, especially when you're busy. It's a motion-activated laser that projects a red dot around the room. The randomised pattern keeps things unpredictable, which is great because cats love a good chase. It has three different speed settings, so you can adjust the intensity based on your cat's energy level.

It's USB rechargeable, which is a plus, and you get about 2.5 hours of playtime on a single charge. Setting it up is super simple – just plug it in and let it do its thing. Our tester found that their cat was immediately interested, leaping and pouncing after the dot. It's a good way to get your cat moving and satisfy their natural hunting instincts.

However, it's worth noting that while the random movement is engaging, it can sometimes lead to your cat bumping into furniture if the room isn't clear. Also, like most laser toys, your cat won't actually be able to catch the dot, which can lead to frustration after a while. Most cats tend to lose interest after about 10 minutes, either from getting tired or a bit annoyed.

Make sure to clear some space before you turn this on. You don't want your furry friend crashing into the coffee table while they're on the hunt for that elusive red dot. A bit of prep goes a long way for a safe and fun play session.

Here's a quick rundown:

• Randomised laser pattern: Keeps your cat guessing.

• USB Rechargeable: Convenient and eco-friendly.

• Motion Activated: Starts when your cat is near.

• Three Speed Modes: Adjustable play intensity.

It's a fun toy that can provide a good burst of exercise, and it's a steal for the price. It’s a toy that can capture their attention for extended periods, even for cats that are usually picky [f76a]. Just remember to supervise playtime and ensure the area is safe for your cat's energetic pursuits.

Cat Dancer Rainbow Cat Charmer

Sometimes, the simplest toys are the biggest hits with our feline friends. The Cat Dancer Rainbow Cat Charmer is a prime example of this. It's basically a piece of spring steel wire with a few pieces of twisted cardboard on the end. Sounds basic, right? Well, cats absolutely go wild for it.

What makes this toy so engaging is the way the wire bounces and flutters. Unlike a typical wand toy that needs you to constantly make big movements, this one stays lively with just a little bit of effort from your end. This means your cat gets that satisfying feeling of chasing and pouncing, which is super important for their natural instincts. It's a fantastic way to get cats of all ages moving and jumping.

Here's why it's a great pick:

• Engaging Movement: The spring wire creates unpredictable bounces that mimic prey.

• Simple Design: No complicated parts, just pure, unadulterated fun.

• Affordable: Even if your cat is a super-enthusiastic player and wears it out, it won't break the bank to replace.

Now, it's worth noting that the cardboard ends might not last forever, especially with a really determined cat. You might find yourself needing to replace it more often than you'd think. But honestly, for the sheer joy it brings and how much cats seem to love it, it's a small price to pay. It's a classic for a reason, and definitely a good addition to your summer play arsenal for some interactive fun.

Happy Playing!

So there you have it, a bunch of fun toys to keep your feline friends busy this summer. Whether your cat loves to chase, pounce, or just bat things around, there’s something here to get their tails twitching. Remember, a tired cat is a happy cat, and these toys are a great way to make sure they get enough exercise, especially when it’s too hot to go outside. Give these a try and watch your kitty have a blast!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my cat love chasing laser pointers so much?

Cats are natural hunters, and laser pointers mimic the quick, unpredictable movements of prey. Even though they can't actually catch the dot, the chase itself is super exciting for them and taps into their hunting instincts. It's like a thrilling game of tag for your feline friend!

Are catnip toys safe for all cats?

For most cats, catnip is totally safe and just makes them feel happy and playful. It's like a fun treat! However, some cats might not react to it at all, and very rarely, a kitten might get a little overstimulated. It's generally a harmless way to add some extra fun to playtime.

How often should I play with my cat?

Aim for at least two short play sessions a day, maybe 10-15 minutes each. This helps them burn energy, keeps them from getting bored, and strengthens the bond between you two. Think of it as their daily workout and bonding time!

What should I do if my cat doesn't seem interested in a toy?

Don't worry! Cats can be picky. Try different types of toys to see what catches their eye. Sometimes, a toy needs a little 'shake-up' or a new hiding spot to become interesting again. You can also try using treats or a bit of catnip to make a new toy more appealing.

Is it okay for my cat to 'catch' the toy?

Absolutely! In fact, it's best for your cat's instincts if they can 'catch' their prey. If you're using a wand toy or a laser pointer, try to let them catch it occasionally. You can even give them a small treat right after they 'catch' it, so they feel like they've successfully completed their hunt.

How do I keep my cat entertained when I'm busy?

Interactive toys that move on their own, puzzle feeders that dispense treats, or tunnels can keep your cat busy and mentally stimulated when you can't play directly. These toys allow them to explore and 'hunt' independently, satisfying their natural curiosity.