7 Best Toys for Indoor Cats and How to Use Them Safely

1. Wand Toy

This list starts with useful everyday options, then moves to toys that depend more on your cat's preferences. It is not a scientifically tested ranking.

Move a wand away from your cat like fleeing prey: slide it along the floor, pause, then let your cat catch it. A basic wand with firmly attached parts is enough; you do not need an expensive set.

Put wands, string, and ribbon away after supervised play. Check attachments before each session.

2. Puzzle Feeder

A puzzle feeder turns part of a normal meal into a food-searching activity. Start with a stable, easy design and food your cat can see and reach without much effort.

Keep ordinary meals available while your cat learns, especially after adoption. Eating should not depend on solving a puzzle. Count puzzle food toward the daily allowance: Cornell's feeding guidance explains why amounts depend on the individual cat. See how much to feed your cat for portion guidance.

3. Ball Track

An enclosed ball track suits cats who like batting objects and watching them move. It can offer something to do between play sessions with you.

Choose a stable base, a securely retained ball, and no detachable small parts. Watch the first few uses before deciding whether it can stay out. Some cats lose interest quickly, so skip buying several versions. If yours prefers climbing or watching birds, try more ways to enrich your indoor cat's day instead.

4. Kicker Toy

A soft, elongated kicker gives your cat something to grip with their front paws and kick with their back feet, instead of wrestling with your hand. Choose sturdy seams and a size your cat can hold comfortably, without loose eyes or ribbons.

Place it nearby or slide it gently across the floor. Do not push it against your cat's belly. Remove it if seams split or stuffing escapes.

Sudden loss of interest in play deserves attention, not another purchase. The ASPCA recommends veterinary care if your cat seems sick.

5. Catnip or Silvervine Toy

A scent-filled toy may encourage sniffing, rubbing, or play, but not every cat responds to catnip. Silvervine, another plant used in cat toys, is an option to try, not a guaranteed fix.

Buy one sturdy fabric toy before committing to a collection. Supervise the introduction and check that the filling stays enclosed. Put it away if your cat chews it open or becomes too worked up, such as swatting at you or biting during play.

6. Crinkle Tunnel

A tunnel creates a hiding spot and a place to ambush a wand moving outside the opening. Choose one that stays steady, with covered supports and no dangling cords.

Let a cautious cat approach on their own; never place them inside or block the exit. Loud crinkling puts some cats off, so a quiet tunnel may work better. If your new cat mostly watches from hiding, focus on how to build trust with a newly adopted cat before encouraging active play.

7. Laser Pointer

A laser pointer is optional, not a first purchase. Your cat cannot catch the light, which may frustrate some cats. A wand is often simpler.

If you use one, keep the beam away from human and animal eyes. Play briefly on a clear floor, away from stairs and obstacles. Always finish by leading your cat to a physical toy they can catch. Stop using it if your cat seems frustrated or keeps searching for lights after the session ends.