How to Choose Natural Cat Toys Your Cat Will Actually Play With

Quick answer

To choose natural cat toys your cat will actually play with, focus on materials that match your cat's play style and texture preferences. Start with a variety of natural materials like wool, cotton, and jute, and observe which textures and shapes your cat gravitates toward. For cats that prefer catnip-free options, look for toys that are interactive or have enticing shapes and movements.

Cats are particular about their toys. You can spend money on a fancy gadget, and your cat might ignore it in favor of a cardboard box. The secret to choosing natural cat toys that get used is understanding your cat's individual play preferences and matching them with the right materials and designs.

Natural cat toys are made from materials like wool, cotton, jute, and other plant-based fibers. They are often more environmentally friendly and can be gentler on your cat's paws and teeth than synthetic alternatives. But 'natural' doesn't automatically mean your cat will love it. You need to consider texture, shape, and how the toy moves.

Understand your cat's play style

Cats fall into general play categories: stalkers, pouncers, chasers, and wrestlers. A stalker might prefer a toy that mimics prey and can be ambushed, while a wrestler wants something they can grab and kick. Observe your cat during play to see which behaviors they exhibit most.

Once you know their style, you can select toys that encourage that behavior. For stalkers, toys with a tail or string that can be dragged are great. For wrestlers, soft, grabable toys that are easy to hold with their front paws and kick with their back feet are ideal.

• Watch your cat play with different toys to identify their preferred style.
• Choose toys that match their natural hunting behaviors for better engagement.

Consider materials and textures

Natural cat toys come in a range of materials, each with a different feel. Wool is soft and slightly springy, which many cats love to knead. Cotton rope is sturdy and has a satisfying texture for chewing and batting. Jute is rougher and can be great for scratching and gripping.

Some cats are sensitive to certain textures. A toy that is too rough might be ignored, while a toy that is too soft might not be interesting. Start with a variety and see which ones your cat returns to. Also, consider whether your cat prefers toys with catnip. If they are indifferent to catnip, look for catnip-free options that rely on movement and texture to entice.

• Introduce one new material at a time to see which textures your cat prefers.
• Catnip-free toys can be just as engaging if they have the right movement and shape.

Look for interactive features

Interactive cat toys are designed to engage your cat's natural instincts. They might have a shape that is easy to bat around, a tail that can be chased, or a squeaker that mimics prey sounds. These features can make a toy more enticing and encourage more active play.

Even simple toys can be interactive if you play with your cat using them. Dangling a toy on a string or tossing it across the room can turn a static toy into an exciting game. The key is to choose toys that are versatile and can be used in different ways.

• Toys with tails or strings are great for interactive play.
• Squeakers can add an extra layer of interest for some cats.

Decision rules for choosing natural cat toys

• Texture preference: Observe whether your cat prefers soft (wool, cotton) or rough (jute) textures. Offer one of each and see which they engage with more. Match the material to your cat's preferred feel.
• Play style: Stalkers and pouncers need toys that can be ambushed, like those with tails. Wrestlers want toys they can grab and kick. Choose shapes that align with how your cat plays.
• Catnip sensitivity: If your cat ignores catnip, choose toys that rely on movement, texture, or sound instead. If they love catnip, toys with catnip can be a strong motivator. Don't assume catnip is essential; many cats prefer movement.

Natural cat toys worth trying

• Urban Critters Natural Cat Toy: Your cat will love pouncing and playing with this adorable set of characters. Made of soft and natural materials, these durable Urban Critters are designed with your cat's claws in mind. Filled with catnip and made with stringed tails and a shape that's great for grabbing- Each package contains 2 toys (Bird & Mouse) This toy offers two different shapes and includes catnip, making it a great option if your cat responds to catnip. The stringed tails and grab-friendly shape cater to pouncing and wrestling play styles.
• Octopus Natural Rope Dog Toy: Your dog will love everything the Octopus Rope Dog Toy has to offer. Long Natural cotton ropes securely fastened in a thick body that dogs love to grasp.....and yes, a squeaker inside. Use the toy for tossing, tugging, fetching, training and interactive play. Made with vegetable dyes, this adorable character is great for bedtime cuddles too! Great for MED- LRG Breed dogs* This toy is durable but not... Although labeled for dogs, this natural cotton rope toy can also appeal to cats that enjoy batting and chewing. The long ropes and squeaker provide interactive play, and the vegetable dyes are a safe choice for pets who like to mouth their toys.

Who should choose what

Best for

• Cats that enjoy pouncing and grabbing toys with tails
• Cats that respond well to catnip and like soft, natural materials

Not for

• Cats that prefer catnip-free toys and are indifferent to catnip
• Cats that are heavy chewers and need extremely durable toys (consider dog toys designed for tougher play)

Choosing natural cat toys your cat will actually play with comes down to observation and matching their preferences. Try a few different materials and shapes, and watch how your cat reacts. With a little trial and error, you'll find the toys that turn your cat into an enthusiastic player.