The Best Silvervine Cat Toys
If your cat doesn't respond to toys filled with catnip, it may be time to try out silvervine toys. Silvervine is a powerful attractant that puts cats into a euphoric state, with them rolling, licking, and meowing when exposed to its irresistible aroma. Regular toys aren't always enough to get cats up and moving. However, toys featuring silvervine are an excellent way to encourage your kitty to exercise and play. With that in mind, we've rounded up some of the best silvervine toys the internet has to offer.
What to Look For
We recommend keeping the following questions in mind when shopping for silvervine cat toys for your pet: Is it made from durable materials? Does your cat prefer interactive or chew toys? Is it small enough for them to carry around? Our favorite was the silvervine toy from Potaroma, which has a motion sensor that causes it to wiggle when a cat touches it. We also really liked the silvervine toy from TwinCritters, which has a fun shape that cats enjoy. Keep reading to learn more about our top picks and discover the right one for your feline friend.
Potaroma Flopping Fish Silvervine Cat Toy
The cat's meow
If you have difficulty keeping your cat entertained with toys, this silvervine flopping fish may change that. It looks like a real fish, so it’ll likely attract your cat’s attention right out of the box. Once your cat touches it, the motion-activated toy begins to flop and wiggle, enticing your cat to play with it even more. Plus, the toy doesn’t need batteries and comes with a USB cable, making charging a snap.
Pros:
- We love that the toy is made of soft, plush material, so it’s safe for cats to wrestle with or chew.
- The toy is well-made and durable, withstanding chewing, pawing, and scratching without breaking.
Cons:
- It might be too big for smaller cats.
Potaroma Teeth Cleaning Silvervine Cat Toy
Endless entertainment
From dental health to improving appetite, this silvervine cat toy from Potaroma seemingly does it all. Cats can lick, rub, and chew these edible sticks, which they find stimulating. If your cat has become sedentary, these sticks are an excellent way to get them up and moving again. Plus, they help remove tartar build-up and keep cats’ breath fresh.
Pros:
- We were impressed by how excited cats get when playing with this toy; it even helps bring shy cats out of their shell.
- It works like a chew toy and may help redirect cats from negative chewing behaviors.
Cons:
- The rope comes apart quickly.
TwinCritters Refillable Plush Silvervine Cat Toys
Feline good
When it’s time to upgrade your cat’s toy collection, you won’t want to miss these silvervine cat toys from TwinCritters. They’re made of soft, durable materials with cute graphics that we think cats will love. That’s not all; they come in a cat-friendly size that’s just big enough for them to hold like a full-body pillow. Plus, the silvervine fruit tucked deep inside the toys activates their playful side, so don’t be surprised to see your kitty jumping, rolling, and vocalizing while playing with the toy.
Pros:
- We found the toy to be very durable, even withstanding cats that usually destroy toys quickly.
- This toy works well with cats that don’t respond to catnip and are picky with toys; this should attract their attention and keep them entertained.
Cons:
- The compartment for filling the toy with silvervine is small.
Petlinks Catnip and Silvervine Cat Toy
With fluffy hair plus swinging arms and legs, Petlinks’ cat toy has everything cats love. Don’t be surprised if you find your cat jumping around and purring when you give them this toy; it’s that stimulating. And it doesn’t end there — the toy’s various textures simulate real prey, which keeps kitties returning for more.
Pros:
- This toy was a great option for both kittens and adult cats, keeping them entertained while helping to relieve stress.
- While this toy is marketed for cats, all types of animals enjoy playing with it, including dogs and ferrets.
Cons:
- Aggressive cats will destroy this toy pretty quickly.
Pet Craft Interactive Silvervine Cat Toy
First-rate fun
This cat toy from Pet Craft proves that high-quality, durable toys are available at affordable prices. The sandwich-shaped toy is made of plush material and filled with premium silvervine that keeps cats playing with it for long periods. It’s appropriate for cats of all ages and stimulates their hunting and stalking instincts.
Pros:
- We especially liked how much cats seemed to enjoy this toy, carrying it with them wherever they went, chewing it, throwing it, and chasing it.
- This holds up well to chewing and rough play.
Cons:
- The bacon slice is easy to lose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are catnip and silvervine the same?
Catnip and silvervine have different active ingredients. While they both produce euphoric responses in cats, several studies have shown that cats are more likely to respond to silvervine than catnip. Furthermore, most cats that don’t react to catnip will respond to silvervine, making it an excellent alternative.
Does silvervine have a calming effect on cats?
Silvervine toys are designed to excite cats, encouraging them to play and engage in other stimulating activities. Since the substance encourages cats to run and play, it may help combat obesity and stress. It can even promote bonding between you and your pet. Once the hyperactive effect of the silvervine wears off, you may find your kitty is calmer and more likely to cuddle.
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.