The Best Ball Toys For Cats
Ball toys are a fantastic way to keep your cats busy and entertained, whether you're playing with them or leaving them to their own devices. There are many textures, sizes, and colors to choose from, allowing you to find a few for any cat, no matter how picky. You can even add catnip or treats to some of them. The options are endless. The only real challenge is narrowing them down.
What to Look For
To ensure you get the perfect ball toy for your cats, we recommend focusing on the sizes, safety, and interactive features of each of your favorite options. For example, the Petstages Cat Tracks cat toy is available in different styles to make any kitty happy. And no matter which type you choose, you can count on the wide openings to prevent injuries. On the other hand, the simpler Auoon Cat Scratcher provides plenty of stimulation using catnip, an interactive ball, and a scratching pad. These are just a couple of our favorites. You can see more by reading the rest of our top picks below.
Petstages Cat Tracks Cat Toy
These cat tracks ball toys from Petstages are available in several styles, making it easy to pick one all of your cats will love. From a single-track chaser to a multilevel spinning tower and more, you can find an interactive option that will entertain even the pickiest of beasts. Meanwhile, no matter which one you go with, you can count on the high-quality safety features to keep your kitty as safe as possible.
Pros:
- Each sturdy ball toy is made of solid plastics, ensuring it holds up to crazy kittens and chunkers alike.
- Cats can’t get the balls out of the crevices, so it’s a lot easier to keep track of them.
Cons:
- The lightweight balls may be safe, but they don’t gain as much momentum as heavier versions.
Upsky Cat Turntable
Three levels and six balls make this turntable toy from Upsky a fabulous choice for kittens and cats of all ages. It allows them to bat balls around while climbing and exploring the different nooks and crannies. Once the balls get moving, you may even notice your furry little friend getting excited over the tinkering of the bell balls, adding to your own entertainment.
Pros:
- Since the balls are different colors and, in some cases, textures, they can keep your cat interested for a while.
- Assembly is a breeze, so you can open it up to switch out the balls or pack it away with little effort.
Cons:
- The non-slip feet aren’t secured tightly. Some cats may be able to get them off.
Auoon Cat Scratcher and Ball Toy
Multipurpose design
If you’re looking for a versatile ball toy in a simple package, the Auoon cat scratcher and ball toy have you covered. The ball track gives them something to bat around and interact with, while the scratching pad and fuzzy mouse swatter offer additional ways to let some of their kitten energy out. Best of all, you can add catnip to the scratcher to help attract cats that may usually ignore new playthings.
Pros:
- This compact toy offers three ways for your cat to have fun without taking up too much floor space.
- You can replace the scratch pad with almost any brand’s round cardboard scratcher, allowing you to keep the fun going.
Cons:
- The ball is pretty easy for most cats to get out of the track.
Orsda 2-in-1 Interactive Cat Toy
Active engagement
For maximum interaction, nothing beats the Orsda 2-in-1 interactive cat toy. It uses both an ambush feather and a spinning ball track to keep your kitty moving and entertained. Several feathers are included, so you can switch them out as they get chewed up or when your cat grows bored. Meanwhile, there are several customized interaction modes and an auto-shutoff to further help your cat stay interested.
Pros:
- You can use the included charger to recharge the built-in batteries or use regular AA for added convenience.
- There are plenty of settings to choose from, helping you find one to catch your cat’s interest. It’s an excellent choice for rescue pets that may struggle with learning to play.
Cons:
- It has timed settings, and they last about ten minutes. You may have to get up to turn it on for your cat throughout the day.
Lasocuhoo Cat Ball Assortment
You can’t go wrong with the Lasocuhoo cat ball assortment. It comes with thirty balls with different textures and sounds to help catch your kitten’s interest, including crinkly foil, fluffy sparkles, twine, bells, and more. And while it’s tons of fun to throw them around for your own menagerie, it also makes an excellent donation to cat shelters and rescues. The variety ensures cats of any age with any preference have one they love.
Pros:
- Contrary to their small size, these balls are super sturdy. They hold up well to frequent play.
- This bulk pack makes it easy to keep lots of cats entertained for a long time, cutting back on the time and money you’d usually spend replacing toys.
Cons:
- These small balls will get lost under furniture and other random places.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are ball toys a fun choice for cats?
Ball toys move and react to a cat’s batting and touching, which helps activate your cat’s hunting instincts. Anytime your cat can stalk and catch a toy, they feel more accomplished. Keeping a few balls around helps them always have a way to play, even when you can’t.
How can I get my cat interested in their new toy?
There are two ways to catch your cat’s attention with a new toy. The first is with catnip. You can use a catnip spray or the actual herb and rub it all over a new toy to attract your cat. The second is you. If you start messing with the toy, they will become curious and come check it out.
About the Author
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Since 2008, CatTime has provided millions of cat owners with all the information they need to keep their pets happy and healthy. Our experts know exactly what it takes to raise our furry friends and our goal is to help all owners, new or experienced, care for their cats with all the right food, toys, equipment, and accessories.