The Best Kitten Toys To Nurture A Fun-Loving Personality From A Young Age

The Best Kitten Toys To Nurture A Fun-Loving Personality From A Young Age

A playful kitten is a happy kitten, so pick up the best toys for younger cats to encourage an active lifestyle and sharpened instincts; our guide has a brilliant selection to help you shop.

By Molly Wolfe April 07, 2023

A playful cat is a happy cat—are we right? If you’ve got a new kitten, one of the best things you can do for them (after providing nourishing meals and a cozy cat bed, of course), is play with them regularly. Teaching your kitty the art of play with kitten toys is crucial to their development; not only will it nurture a positive attitude and playful personality, but it’ll also keep them fit, build strong muscles, and keep their minds and hunting skills sharp.

There are endless kitten toys on the market to choose from, ranging from classic mouse toys to cat wands to catnip-infused toys, so it can be hard to know where to start. We always recommend having a variety of toys in your repertoire, so you can switch it up now and then and keep things fresh. This will help to keep your cat interested, while also honing different skills with the different toys. So, if you’ve got a new kitten at home (lucky you!), check out our guide to the best kitten toys to get those playful tendencies tuned up.

awardImageUrl

Top Pick BEGRIM Cat Laser Pointer

BEGRIM Cat Toy Pointer for Indoor, Cat Mouse Toys Wand Light Pet Interactive Toys to Keep Cat Busy, for Kitten Cat Dog Chase Play

Best Kitten Toys to Consider

New kitten mamas often ask the question “Do I need special toys for my kitten?”. The answer is yes. Not only will adult cat toys be too large for their little paws, but they may also scare or intimidate your kitten—which, of course, is the last thing we want! So, read on for our quick tips on choosing the best kitten toys to nurture your feline’s love for play:

Size

As we said above, size is super important. If a cat toy is too large, your kitten is likely to see it as an opponent rather than prey, which can make them defensive, confused, and sometimes even aggressive. So, it’s important to pick smaller kitten toys for your baby cat, that they can easily grasp with their paws. Aim for smaller mice toys and balls no larger than a ping pong ball to use as a benchmark.

Variety

Variety is the spice of life, whether you’re a human or a cat. It’s best to have a few different kitten toys that you can whip out on a rotational basis. This will prevent your cat from getting bored of a particular toy, while also helping to encourage different play styles and catch techniques.

Shop-Bought/DIY

We love the brilliant range of kitten toys available on the market. However, if you’re short on cash or simply feeling a little creative, you can always make your DIY kitten toys at home, too. Something as simple as a scrunched-up ball of paper can entertain your cat to no end, and games like throwing a ping pong ball across the room can really get them active and energized, too.

BEGRIM Cat Laser Pointer

We love a good laser pointer here at Cattime. This fun and engaging laser toy by BEGRIM is a fab starter toy for your kitten, helping to teach them how to hunt, chase, and pounce. The laser comes with 5 patterns that you can easily switch between (great for keeping things fresh!), plus a handy flashlight you can use around the house.

Super easy to use and mini in size, you can pop this one in your pocket and whip it out whenever your kitten fancies getting playful. Coming in at a bargain price, too, this laser pointer kitten toy won’t break the bank.

Top Pick
BEGRIM Cat Toy Pointer for Indoor, Cat Mouse Toys Wand Light Pet Interactive Toys to Keep Cat Busy, for Kitten Cat Dog Chase Play

BEGRIM Cat Toy Pointer for Indoor, Cat Mouse Toys Wand Light Pet Interactive Toys to Keep Cat Busy, for Kitten Cat Dog Chase Play

$14.99

Buy on Amazon

Pros:

  • 5 patterns
  • Interactive toy
  • Mini and convenient
  • Great price tag

Cons:

  • No cons here

Catnip Toys for Kittens

Soft, plush, and filled with tempting catnip to get your kitten excited about playtime, this set of 5 kitten toys is a great addition to your kitty’s toy box. Made of cotton and filled with polish, kitten-safe natural materials, these toys are totally safe to leave out when you’re not at home, too. Exceptionally well-made, the strong, durable stitching means you won’t have to worry about your kitten tearing their toy open during overzealous play, either. Not to mention, we love the cutesie designs, from a darling panda to a green frog and 3 other lovely animals.

Runner Up
Dorakitten Catnip Toys for Indoor Cats - 5PCS Plush Cat Chew Toys Teething Interactive Catnip Filled Kitten Toy Soft Pet Toy (Animal Shapes)

Dorakitten Catnip Toys for Indoor Cats - 5PCS Plush Cat Chew Toys Teething Interactive Catnip Filled Kitten Toy Soft Pet Toy (Animal Shapes)

$9.99

Buy on Amazon

Pros:

  • 5 animal designs
  • Made from kitten-safe cotton
  • Strong stitching to withstand rough biting and play
  • Good value
  • Catnip-filled

Cons:

  • May be too large for tiny kittens

Just For Cats Kitten Bell Balls

Combine engaging noises with a chase game with the help of these rattle bell balls. Great for launching across the living room for your kitty to chase, leaving them to play solo, or taking them out in the garden for some alfresco play, these rattle bells make a captivating addition to your kitten’s growing toy repertoire.

Coming in a pack of 7, you get plenty of bang for your buck with these cat balls, while the assortment of bright colors make for a fun aesthetic, too.

Best Rattle Toys
Hartz Just For Cats Midnight Crazies Cat Toy Balls - Assorted, for All Breed Sizes

Hartz Just For Cats Midnight Crazies Cat Toy Balls - Assorted, for All Breed Sizes

$5.95

Buy on Amazon

Pros:

  • Jingling bells to engage your kitten
  • Pack of 7
  • Excellent price tag
  • Durable materials

Cons:

  • You may not receive the colors pictured

Made4Pets

Every kitten needs a spot to scratch their claws, and ideally that spot won’t be your couch. Tempt them away from your plush furniture by offering up the Made4Pets scratching post, coming in a chic design and serving up heaps of entertainment for your kitten:

Featuring a sturdy base with moving balls to attract your kitten’s attention, plus a tall sisal rope scratching post and hanging ball toy, your kitten will be able to keep themselves occupied for hours with this toy. Large enough to challenge them but not so large they won’t be able to play with it properly, this kitten toy is sure to enrich your kitten’s home life to no end.

Best Scratching Post
Made4Pets Cat Scratching Post Cat Scratcher Toy Wooden Two-Layer Cat Turntable with Interactive Balls and Dangling Ball

Made4Pets Cat Scratching Post Cat Scratcher Toy Wooden Two-Layer Cat Turntable with Interactive Balls and Dangling Ball

$29.99

Buy on Amazon

Pros:

  • Scratching post and entertainment center all-in-one
  • Chic, understated design
  • Great price tag

Cons:

  • Base could be sturdier

Cat Crinkle Balls

These straight-up simple crinkle toys provide hours of entertainment for your feline, no matter what age they are. That said, they certainly lend themselves to kittens due to their smaller size; your kitten will easily be able to grasp, catch, and pounce on these crinkle toys, giving them a glowy feeling of achievement (which is super important), every time they make a catch.

The crinkle sound makes a satisfying noise that your cat will love, and the 10-pack is sure to last and last. Pick up these crinkle kitten toys for a teeny-tiny price tag, and start playing as soon as the mailman comes.

Also Consider
Andiker Cat Crinkle Balls, 2.36 Inches Colorful Cat Balls Chew and Chase Cat Mylar Crinkle Balls Lightweight Cat Toys for Indoor Cats to Keep Fit and Active (10 pcs) (10pc)

Andiker Cat Crinkle Balls, 2.36 Inches Colorful Cat Balls Chew and Chase Cat Mylar Crinkle Balls Lightweight Cat Toys for Indoor Cats to Keep Fit and Active (10 pcs) (10pc)

$5.99

Buy on Amazon

Pros:

  • 10-pack is excellent value
  • Makes captivating crinkle noise
  • Small size is great for kittens

Cons:

  • Sparkly strands can make a bit of a mess

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best toys for a kitten?

Small toys that your kitten can easily grasp are the best way to go. Consider picking up some small mouse toys or even just grab a ping pong ball for your kitten to chase; this will have them running about and stretching their little legs while honing their hunting and catching skills at the same time.

What do kittens like to play with the most?

Kittens, like their fully-grown adult cat counterparts, love teaser toys, wands, mice toys, and tunnels. In fact, kittens will play with pretty much anything! Just make sure your chosen toys are safe and not frustrating for your cat (i.e., let them catch that laser pointer every now and then!).

How do I keep my indoor kitten entertained?

It’s important to have a solid bounty of good kitten toys to keep your indoor kitten entertained at home. They’ll be missing out on their natural “entertainment” of hunting wildlife, so it’s crucial that you emulate some chase-and-catch games at home so they don’t miss out on building those key skills. It’s best to opt for a selection of interactive toys that you can use with them to build your bond, as well as some independent kicker or mouse toys that they can chase and play with on their own. After all, even the most committed cat owners can’t be at home all the time.

WHY TRUST US

Since 2008, Cattime has served as a leading resource for millions of cat owners and pet lovers alike. Our goal is to give every cat and pet a happy, healthy home by providing owners with all information they need to be the best pet parents possible. Our experts share their insights and recommendations to make caring for your beloved pet a breeze.

See The Latest Articles From Cattime Editors

5 Of The Best Natural Cat Foods To Feed Into Your Pets Wild Side
5 Of The Best Natural Cat Foods To Feed Into Your Pets Wild Side

Whether you have a picky eater on your hands, are looking to feed your cat a cleaner diet, or are working around food sensitivities, opting for a natural cat food is a great choice. Picking one of these foods can provide your adult cats or kittens with the same, if not more, nutrients and vitamins that traditional cat foods do but without the impure ingredients, like artificial preservatives, that can cause issues for many pets. If natural food sounds like the right pick for you, we want to make the choice easier so that your cat can begin eating clean as soon as possible. That’s why we’ve gathered the five best options on Amazon for you here:

The Best Cat Grass Seeds To Aid Their Digestion And Freshen Stinky Breath
The Best Cat Grass Seeds To Aid Their Digestion And Freshen Stinky Breath

Cat grass is an often overlooked—but highly beneficial—addition to your cat’s day-to-day life. Why? The reasons are multifold. Grow a little tub in your home with some cat grass seeds, and your cat will enjoy a healthier gut, better digestion, and even fresher breath (the latter is thanks to the high levels of chlorophyll present in this clever grass!). Not to be confused with catnip, cat grass doesn’t affect your kitty’s mood, but it does provide plenty of advantages that’ll lift your cat’s spirits and leave them all-round healthier and happier. Packed with micronutrients like vitamin A and C, as well as a host of other health-boosting goodies, the best cat grass is a fabulous addition to complement your cat’s nutritious cat food. Sure, it’s not categorically vital, but why wouldn’t we want to improve our cat’s health? Not to mention, more greenery around the home is always a good thing. So, if we’ve piqued your interest, pick up some of the best cat grass seeds today and nurture your own cat-loving plant at home.

The 5 Best Cat Fountains for Fresh Tasting Water
The 5 Best Cat Fountains for Fresh Tasting Water

Our majestic felines have it all. They perch on windowsills with graceful nonchalance, they rub against your legs like it’s their job (because it is), and they curl up in laps with a contented purr that could put any relaxation app to shame. All that hard work requires some hydration. Our little lions often don’t take a drink from their cat bowl as often as they should. One reason is that cats are instinctively drawn to flowing water. Because in the wild, flowing water is safe water. So what’s the solution? Enter cat water fountains. These nifty contraptions keep your cats hydrated by providing cool, filtered drinking water all day. Plus, watching your kitty lap up water from an adorable cat fountain spout is just plain delightful. But how do you choose the best cat water fountain for your beloved furball? No worries —we’ve done the research for you. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most popular and highly-rated options on the market today. From stainless steel designs that blend seamlessly into modern decor schemes to whimsical flower-shaped models that will make you smile each time your kitty takes a sip, there are plenty of options. So join us as we dive headfirst into the world of cat water fountains because our furballs deserve nothing but the best.

The 5 Best Low-Tracking Cat Litters For Clean Paws
The 5 Best Low-Tracking Cat Litters For Clean Paws

Clumping kitty litter is meant to be sticky and absorbent, but that makes it all the more troublesome when it comes to getting tracked through the house. Litter sticks to cats’ paws, so when they hop out of the litter box and go back to their cozy spot on the couch, the litter goes along with them. If you’re looking to cut down on mess and keep litter in the box, one of the best low-tracking cat litters can help. These litters are made with special formulas to keep litter from sticking to paws while still absorbing waste. They may not be completely effective, but they can help keep messes to a minimum. If you’re looking to test out a new litter, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve narrowed down the best of the best to help you find the low-tracking litter that’s right for you.

The 5 Best Cat Slings for Taking Your Cat Anywhere
The 5 Best Cat Slings for Taking Your Cat Anywhere

Cat slings have taken the feline world by storm, providing a comfortable and stylish way to carry your furry friends around. Whether you’re going on a walk or running errands, these slings offer an ultra-convenient solution for keeping your beloved pet close at all times. Traditionally known as baby carriers, cat slings have now been custom-designed to cater exclusively to cats. They come in various styles and sizes, ranging from snug pouches for smaller kitties to spacious models that can accommodate larger breeds. The adjustable straps allow you to adjust the sling according to your height and preference so that it fits comfortably across your body. One of the best things about these sling-style cat carriers is how they promote bonding between owners and pets. Cats love nothing more than being cuddled up next to their humans, reassured by their presence while exploring the world outside together. With a pet sling carrier on, both owner and pet feel secure knowing they’re never too far away from each other. Plus, carrying your feline friend with you wherever you go means they’ll always be able to enjoy the fresh air (without the risks of leash-walking) while getting used to different surroundings. And let’s not forget how much attention our little furballs attract when we take them out. There’s no denying it: cats make people smile. They also provide ultimate convenience compared with traditional carriers, where hands-free movement may not always be possible — especially if traveling alone or juggling multiple tasks at once. Plus, because most designs are made out of lightweight fabrics like cotton or mesh material, even heavier-weighted breeds won’t weigh your shoulders down. We think cat slings are perfect companions for everything from trips to the vet or after-dinner walks. Whatever your reason, we’ve found quite the selection for you to consider.

The Best Kitten Toys To Nurture A Fun-Loving Personality From A Young Age
The Best Kitten Toys To Nurture A Fun-Loving Personality From A Young Age

A playful cat is a happy cat—are we right? If you’ve got a new kitten, one of the best things you can do for them (after providing nourishing meals and a cozy cat bed, of course), is play with them regularly. Teaching your kitty the art of play with kitten toys is crucial to their development; not only will it nurture a positive attitude and playful personality, but it’ll also keep them fit, build strong muscles, and keep their minds and hunting skills sharp. There are endless kitten toys on the market to choose from, ranging from classic mouse toys to cat wands to catnip-infused toys, so it can be hard to know where to start. We always recommend having a variety of toys in your repertoire, so you can switch it up now and then and keep things fresh. This will help to keep your cat interested, while also honing different skills with the different toys. So, if you’ve got a new kitten at home (lucky you!), check out our guide to the best kitten toys to get those playful tendencies tuned up.

The Best Cat Tower To Let Your Feline Observe Their Kingdom In Comfort
The Best Cat Tower To Let Your Feline Observe Their Kingdom In Comfort

Cat towers are the creme de la creme of cat accessories. Giving your cat a literal platform from which to observe their surroundings (i.e., their kingdom), your feline will love nothing more than scampering up that tower and perching on top. Cat towers come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, so it’s super easy to find one to fit your space. Plus, they’re great for those with limited floor space, since they’re largely vertical with a comparatively small footprint. Most towers come with sisal rope scratching posts for your cat to sharpen their talons on, which will encourage them to lay off of your couch and armchair for once. All in all, a sturdy tower is the ultimate treat for your cat—and we’re quite sure that if they could thank you for it, they would. So, pick up the best cat tower from our guide today; we’ve got options for all budgets and tastes, so pick your favorite from our selection.

The Best Laser Pointers To Keep Your Cats Alert, Engaged, And Entertained
The Best Laser Pointers To Keep Your Cats Alert, Engaged, And Entertained

Who said cats can’t enjoy gadgets? Enter: the laser pointer. These clever kitty toys give your cat endless hours of fun, while you’re sure to be entertained teasing them. In fact, as far as cot toys go, this one requires minimal effort from yourself; you can simply sit back and point the laser all over the room, and watch while your feline scrambles to catch it (and of course, they won’t!). Sure to befuddle, amuse, confuse, and entertain all at once, the best laser pointer is a key accessory in your cat’s toy collection. Why do cats love them? Well, the fast-moving laser point actually mimics a cat’s real prey; mice, voles, and rats all move fast as lightning, so your cat can exercise their wild side with this toy. Encouraging healthy play and offering a great cardio workout, laser pointers are to cats what a soccer match is to kids. So, jump on the bandwagon and pick up the best laser pointer from our guide today.

The Best Cat Beds For Your Felines To Get In Some Top-Notch Beauty Sleep
The Best Cat Beds For Your Felines To Get In Some Top-Notch Beauty Sleep

Just like us humans, cats love a comfy place to snooze. After a healthy diet with nutritious cat food, sleep is super important when it comes to a healthy pet. After all, they spend most hours of the day getting those 40 winks! Yep, sleep is highly important to cats, so it’s crucial that you offer your feline the coziest place to bed down. The best cat beds come in all shapes and sizes, making it super easy to find the right design to fit your space. Of course, you must take your own cat’s preferences into consideration, too: some like their beds enclosed and tucked away, some like to observe from an open top, and others love to languor over the radiator to up the game in the heat department. Whatever your kitty’s sleep style, we’ve got the top cat beds from across the web to help your cat get their beauty sleep. Read on and check out our guide now.

5 Of The Best Luxury Cat Beds To Make Every Cat Nap More Glamorous
5 Of The Best Luxury Cat Beds To Make Every Cat Nap More Glamorous

If there is one thing cats know how to do right, it’s snuggling up and dozing off into a refreshing power nap at any given time. By nature, cats need a lot of sleep and they take it seriously, so join your cat in prioritizing their sleep by getting them a luxury cat bed. These cat beds are just a step up from traditional cat beds, with intricate designs, plush fabrics, and a stellar appearance. What we love about luxury cat beds is that they serve as a gift to your cat and your home, adding style to your cat gear. And why not complement their new snooze spot with a comfy window perch to really put you in their books?

5 Of The Best Natural Cat Foods To Feed Into Your Pets Wild Side
5 Of The Best Natural Cat Foods To Feed Into Your Pets Wild Side

Whether you have a picky eater on your hands, are looking to feed your cat a cleaner diet, or are working around food sensitivities, opting for a natural cat food is a great choice. Picking one of these foods can provide your adult cats or kittens with the same, if not more, nutrients and vitamins that traditional cat foods do but without the impure ingredients, like artificial preservatives, that can cause issues for many pets. If natural food sounds like the right pick for you, we want to make the choice easier so that your cat can begin eating clean as soon as possible. That’s why we’ve gathered the five best options on Amazon for you here:

The Best Cat Grass Seeds To Aid Their Digestion And Freshen Stinky Breath
The Best Cat Grass Seeds To Aid Their Digestion And Freshen Stinky Breath

Cat grass is an often overlooked—but highly beneficial—addition to your cat’s day-to-day life. Why? The reasons are multifold. Grow a little tub in your home with some cat grass seeds, and your cat will enjoy a healthier gut, better digestion, and even fresher breath (the latter is thanks to the high levels of chlorophyll present in this clever grass!). Not to be confused with catnip, cat grass doesn’t affect your kitty’s mood, but it does provide plenty of advantages that’ll lift your cat’s spirits and leave them all-round healthier and happier. Packed with micronutrients like vitamin A and C, as well as a host of other health-boosting goodies, the best cat grass is a fabulous addition to complement your cat’s nutritious cat food. Sure, it’s not categorically vital, but why wouldn’t we want to improve our cat’s health? Not to mention, more greenery around the home is always a good thing. So, if we’ve piqued your interest, pick up some of the best cat grass seeds today and nurture your own cat-loving plant at home.

The 5 Best Cat Fountains for Fresh Tasting Water
The 5 Best Cat Fountains for Fresh Tasting Water

Our majestic felines have it all. They perch on windowsills with graceful nonchalance, they rub against your legs like it’s their job (because it is), and they curl up in laps with a contented purr that could put any relaxation app to shame. All that hard work requires some hydration. Our little lions often don’t take a drink from their cat bowl as often as they should. One reason is that cats are instinctively drawn to flowing water. Because in the wild, flowing water is safe water. So what’s the solution? Enter cat water fountains. These nifty contraptions keep your cats hydrated by providing cool, filtered drinking water all day. Plus, watching your kitty lap up water from an adorable cat fountain spout is just plain delightful. But how do you choose the best cat water fountain for your beloved furball? No worries —we’ve done the research for you. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most popular and highly-rated options on the market today. From stainless steel designs that blend seamlessly into modern decor schemes to whimsical flower-shaped models that will make you smile each time your kitty takes a sip, there are plenty of options. So join us as we dive headfirst into the world of cat water fountains because our furballs deserve nothing but the best.

The 5 Best Low-Tracking Cat Litters For Clean Paws
The 5 Best Low-Tracking Cat Litters For Clean Paws

Clumping kitty litter is meant to be sticky and absorbent, but that makes it all the more troublesome when it comes to getting tracked through the house. Litter sticks to cats’ paws, so when they hop out of the litter box and go back to their cozy spot on the couch, the litter goes along with them. If you’re looking to cut down on mess and keep litter in the box, one of the best low-tracking cat litters can help. These litters are made with special formulas to keep litter from sticking to paws while still absorbing waste. They may not be completely effective, but they can help keep messes to a minimum. If you’re looking to test out a new litter, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve narrowed down the best of the best to help you find the low-tracking litter that’s right for you.

The 5 Best Cat Slings for Taking Your Cat Anywhere
The 5 Best Cat Slings for Taking Your Cat Anywhere

Cat slings have taken the feline world by storm, providing a comfortable and stylish way to carry your furry friends around. Whether you’re going on a walk or running errands, these slings offer an ultra-convenient solution for keeping your beloved pet close at all times. Traditionally known as baby carriers, cat slings have now been custom-designed to cater exclusively to cats. They come in various styles and sizes, ranging from snug pouches for smaller kitties to spacious models that can accommodate larger breeds. The adjustable straps allow you to adjust the sling according to your height and preference so that it fits comfortably across your body. One of the best things about these sling-style cat carriers is how they promote bonding between owners and pets. Cats love nothing more than being cuddled up next to their humans, reassured by their presence while exploring the world outside together. With a pet sling carrier on, both owner and pet feel secure knowing they’re never too far away from each other. Plus, carrying your feline friend with you wherever you go means they’ll always be able to enjoy the fresh air (without the risks of leash-walking) while getting used to different surroundings. And let’s not forget how much attention our little furballs attract when we take them out. There’s no denying it: cats make people smile. They also provide ultimate convenience compared with traditional carriers, where hands-free movement may not always be possible — especially if traveling alone or juggling multiple tasks at once. Plus, because most designs are made out of lightweight fabrics like cotton or mesh material, even heavier-weighted breeds won’t weigh your shoulders down. We think cat slings are perfect companions for everything from trips to the vet or after-dinner walks. Whatever your reason, we’ve found quite the selection for you to consider.