25 Best Cat Toys For Mental Stimulation: Purrs Of Fun!

While it’s important to prioritize your cat’s nutrition and physical health, mental stimulation is another crucial piece of the puzzle, and there’s no better way to provide it than with interactive cat toys. 

Not only do toys designed to provide mental stimulation help keep your cat entertained and provide an outlet for his instinctive behaviors, they also help to challenge his logical mind by providing a task that requires problem-solving skills.

The more your cat’s brain is engaged, the less emotionally reactive he will be. 

This results in a calmer, more relaxed cat with less potential for behavioral issues – like excessive meowing, destructive scratching, anxiety, aggression, or inappropriate toileting behaviors.

No wonder enrichment toys are so important for any cat owner – especially for indoor cats who don’t go outside.

How Do I Choose Mentally Stimulating Toys For My Cat?

When it comes to mental stimulation, there are a few things to consider when choosing your cat’s latest new toy. 

First, the toy should be interactive. 

This means that it should require your cat to engage with it in some way, whether that’s by chasing it, batting it around, rubbing against it, scratching it, or solving a puzzle. 

Second, the toy should be durable and made from safe materials. You don’t want your cat to accidentally ingest any parts of the toy or have it break apart easily.

It’s important to choose the types of toys that are appropriate for your cat’s size, age, and individual preferences. 

Some cats like to bat things in the air, while others like to chase something along the ground or pounce on something. 

So take a moment to figure out what your cat likes best and make sure to provide plenty of enrichment opportunities throughout the day. The more “highlights” he has in his day, the better.

With that said, let’s dive right into my best 25 cat toys for mental stimulation. 

From curious kittens to seasoned senior cats, there’s something here for everyone.

Food Puzzle Toys For Cats

Hunting for food is an innate behavior for cats. 

In the wild, cats hunt for their prey, which provides not only sustenance but also mental and physical stimulation. 

However, domestic cats don’t always have the opportunity to hunt, which can lead to boredom, frustration, and overeating. 

Puzzle feeders and slow feeders are designed to simulate the hunting experience by making cats work for their food. 

This not only slows down their eating time but also engages the “seeking” system in the brain, giving cats a boost of feel-good endorphins.

#1. Nina Ottosson Buggin’ Out Puzzle & Play

The Nina Ottosson Buggin’ Out Puzzle & Play puzzle toy is designed to challenge your cat’s natural foraging instincts.

Our Dubai rescue cat Spencer absolutely loves it. He’s a street cat at heart and spent his first year fending for himself, so something like this is a breeze for him.

It’s always fun to watch him swivel the leaves and bat at the pegs to uncover the hidden treats.

Benefits

• 16 hidden treat compartments keep cats occupied and engaged
• Adjustable difficulty level makes it suitable for cats of all skill levels
• Food-safe materials are free from BPA, PVC, and phthalates
• No removable parts for kitty to lose

Keep In Mind

• Some cats may not be interested in the toy
• May require some training to get your cat to use it
• Can get messy (although that’s par for the course with our cats, food puzzle toy, or no food puzzle toy!)

#2. Catit Senses 2.0 Digger Interactive Cat Toy

The Catit Senses 2.0 Digger Interactive Cat Toy is another great way to engage your cat’s natural foraging instincts as he works to access the food.

It also slows down his eating speed and presents a mental challenge that involves all five senses.

Benefits

• Multiple tubes encourage natural pawing behavior in a fun way
• Acts as a slow feeder to help prevent binge eating
• Easy to disassemble and clean

Keep In Mind

• May not be suitable for wet food or larger treats
• Some cats may lose interest after a while
• Rubber mat may not prevent tipping for “pushier” cats

#3. Meal-Dispensing Cat Toy

The PetSafe SlimCat Meal-Dispensing Cat Toy is another good choice for providing your cat with an interactive challenge.

It’s a versatile toy that can be used for both treats and regular kibble, and it caters to different skill levels.

I use these all the time and our cats quite happily bat them around to get their favorite treats out. I just have to make sure to keep them away from the dogs!

A puzzle toy like this is also a great way to keep your cat entertained when you’re not home. 

Benefits

• Combines mealtime with exercise, encouraging your cat to move around and stay active
• Adjustable openings allow you to tailor the challenge to your cat’s needs, making it a great option for cats of all ages and skill levels
• Distributes meals into several smaller portions, making it easier on your cat’s stomach and helping digestion

Keep In Mind

• May be too challenging for some cats
• Some kibble may be too large to fit through the openings, so be sure to test it out before filling it up
• Cat may need some time to figure out how to use the toy, so be patient and start with easy settings

#4. Interactive Puzzle Cat Feeder

The All for Paws Interactive Puzzle Cat Feeder is another fun and challenging way to stimulate your cat’s mind.

It features an interactive food maze with three levels to stimulate your cat’s five senses while rewarding him for correctly solving various treat-hiding challenges.

Benefits

• Encourages cats to “hunt” for food
• Three skill levels 
• Classic, butterfly, and fish shapes available
• Rubber non-slip feet

Keep In Mind

• May take some time for your cat to figure out 
• Some cats may lose interest after a while
• Not suitable for cats who are not interested in food or treats

#5. Snuffle Mat for Cats 

Although snuffle mats are more commonly used for dogs, there’s no reason why cats can’t enjoy them too.

The Blackwater Farms Snuffle Mat is made especially for smaller pets and is another good way to give your cat some mental stimulation. 

The petals and grass are sewn onto the play mat with thick cotton thread, providing flower and grass shapes in various textures that can be used to hide food for kitty to find.

The mat also features two squeaky carrots and a four-inch snuffle ball to encourage further interaction.

Benefits

• Rubber non-slip feet
• Durable and pet-friendly
• Strap on the bottom to secure it to furniture

Keep In Mind

• Felt fabric may feel abrasive for some cats
• Might not be suitable for cats who like to scratch and bite at their toys
• Might get messy but can be wiped down or go in an easy machine wash

#6. Cat Puzzle Toy

The KugobarNe Toy Cat Puzzle Toy is the perfect way to engage your cat’s natural hunting instincts as well as provide both mental and physical activity. 

The toy includes six colored balls your cat can bat around by sticking his paws through the top holes.

The plastic trees can then be inserted into the jacks on the lower level to increase the level of difficulty. 

Benefits

• Provides a mental workout
• Slows down eating speed, promoting better eating habits and gastrointestinal health
• Made from food-grade ABS without any harmful chemicals

Keep In Mind

• May be challenging to adjust the difficulty level for some cats
• May not be suitable for cats who are not interested in puzzle-type toys
• Some cats may lose interest in the toy after some time

#7. Interactive Cat Feeder Toy

The Kelutd Interactive Cat Feeder Toy is made of sturdy premium wood and is ideal for one or more cats to play with. 

If you have a cat that likes to bat things around with his paws, this one is worth considering.

Benefits

• Sturdy construction 
• Detachable multi-layer for easy cleanup
• Easy to assemble
• Good for one or more cats 

Keep In Mind

• May be too difficult for some cats 
• Some cats may not be interested
• May require small size treats

#8. LickiMat Casper Fish-Shaped Cat Slow Feeder

The LickiMat Cat Slow Feeder is a great option if your cat is a licker or you just want to enrich your furry friend’s feeding experience. 

With its textured surface and low profile design, it allows cats to crouch naturally and enjoy their meal. 

The repeated activity of licking can also help to reduce anxiety, stress, and boredom. 

If you want to give your cat an extra challenge, spread wet cat food, fish or chicken paste (or whatever else your cat loves) onto the LickiMat then leave it in the freezer for a few hours.

Benefits

• Licking is a calming, relaxing activity for cats
• Promotes dental health by generating saliva and scraping food particles off the tongue
• Environmentally friendly and safe with no silicone

Keep In Mind

• Some cats may not be interested 
• Some cats may try to bite and chew it instead

Scratching Toys For Cats

Scratching is an innate behavior for cats. 

It’s a way for them to express how they feel, mark their territory with scent, maintain healthy nails, and stretch out their bodies. 

Scratching toys can not only satisfy your kitty’s natural urge to scratch but are an integral part of his need for mental stimulation.

#9. Cat Whack-A-Mole Toy

With its 3-in-1 design that combines ‘whack-a-mole,’ a corrugated cardboard scratcher board, and a bouncy teaser stick, the Tookincmo Cat Whack-A-Mole Toy has a lot more to offer than your average scratch post. 

The variety is great for keeping cats engaged, which in turn encourages them to scratch in the right place – rather than your furniture.

You can add catnip for an even more sensory experience.

Benefits

• 3-in-1 design makes it highly versatile 
• Honeycomb mesh on scratch pad provides a satisfying scratching experience
• ‘Whack-a-mole’ is a fun outlet for hunting behavior

Keep In Mind

• Some cats may lose interest in the toy after a while
• Scratch pad may eventually need to be replaced

#10. Magic Organ Cat Scratching Board

The PetHse Magic Organ Cat Scratching Board is another 3-in-1 product that will provide hours of entertainment for your cat – both physically and mentally. 

The unique design of the board includes a cat ball track that can be connected by magnets to create various shapes to keep kitty engaged. 

Benefits

• Highly-dense corrugated paper for durability
• Includes a bell ball and catnip for added sensory stimulation
• Can also be used as a bed (maybe not if you have a big cat though)

Keep In Mind

• Ball track feature may not appeal to some cats
• May need to add extra catnip to get cat interested

Climbing Toys For Cats

Cats love to be able to perch on high shelving or objects where they have a safe place to survey their territory.

Adding vertical space to your cat’s home environment is another important way to provide environmental enrichment and mental stimulation.

#11. Indoor Mega Kit Cat Furniture

The modular design of the Kitty City Claw Indoor Mega Kit Cat Furniture makes it easy to change and fit any space, and it’s lightweight and easy to move around. 

With its scratching posts, climbing platforms, lounging/sleeping spots, playing areas, jumping spots, and hiding spots on different levels, it provides a good variety of entertainment options for your cat.

Benefits

• Easy to assemble 
• Variety of activity options
• Modular design allows you to add more options

Keep In Mind

• May not be suitable for larger cats
• Stability could be an issue depending on your cat’s size and activity levels

#12. Cat Tree Tower

The Hoopet Cat Tree Tower is a sturdy item of pet furniture that provides a cozy napping spot, entertainment, exercise, exploration, and scratching opportunities for your cat. 

It features a reinforced base for added stability, a fully wrapped scratching post, and a hanging plush ball for exercise and amusement.

This cat tree is easy to assemble, looks decent, and is made of high-quality materials.

Benefits

• Sturdy design
• Easy to assemble 
• Provides entertainment and exercise opportunities

Keep In Mind

• May not be suitable for larger cats or multiple cats at once

Interactive Play Toys For Cats

Interactive play toys provide mental stimulation for cats by engaging their natural instincts to hunt, chase, and pounce. 

They also encourage physical exercise and mental agility, which can help reduce boredom, stress, and anxiety. 

Regular interactive play sessions with your cat can also strengthen the bond between you and your feline friend. 

Are Laser Pointers Bad For Cats?

I’m going to get on my soapbox for a moment and tell you why I have a problem with using a laser pointer as a cat toy.

While laser pointers may seem like a fun and harmless way to play with kitty, the constant chasing of the elusive dot can lead to frustration and anxiety because the cat never gets the satisfaction of actually catching his prey. 

Additionally, if the laser is shone into the cat’s eyes, it can cause damage to the retina. 

So for those reasons, I don’t recommend them. 

If you want still to use one, be sure to throw down a toy furry mouse (or similar) for your cat to pounce on while he’s chasing the dot.

This way he can complete the “predatory sequence” in his brain – instead of being left high and dry with nowhere for all that adrenaline to go.

#13. Interactive Cat Toy Butterfly

The Flurff Interactive Cat Toy Butterfly features a 360-degree rotating butterfly designed to bat about and satisfy your cat’s natural hunting instincts. 

It’s easy to use and comes with two butterfly refills.

Benefits

• Butterfly glows in the dark
• Heavy base for stability
• Works with three AA batteries (not included)

Keep In Mind

• May be a bit loud for some cats/owners
• Butterfly heads may need to be replaced periodically
• Some cats may lose interest 

#14. Hot Pursuit Electronic Concealed Motion Cat Toy

The SmartyKat Hot Pursuit Electronic Concealed Motion Cat Toy uses lights and a feather wand to move erratically and unpredictably under the rustling fabric to mimic real-life prey movements. 

The toy is easy to use and comes with speed controls so you can customize the wand’s movements to better cater to your cat’s preferred play style.

Benefits

• Provides physical and mental stimulation
• Encourages cats to chase, swat, and pounce, so they can act out their predatory sequence
• Works with three AA batteries (not included)

Keep In Mind

• May be a bit loud for some cats/owners
• May be more suitable for kittens that would be more gentle on the mouse
• May need to replace batteries regularly

#15. Cat Toy Roller 3-Level Turntable

The Upsky Cat Toy Roller 3-Level Turntable offers stackable construction made from ultra-strong and tear-resistant Polypropylene, which makes it perfect for one or multiple cats. 

Its spinning balls stimulate your cat’s senses and hunting instincts, keeping him entertained and engaged. 

With a cute cat head shape on the top level and four detachable levels, this interactive toy is both fun and durable.

Benefits

• Sturdy construction
• Suitable for multiple cats to play together
• Different color options available

Keep In Mind

• Some cats may not be interested

#16. Play-N-Squeak Twice The Mice Cat Toy

The OurPets Play-N-Squeak Twice The Mice Cat Toy offers cats a unique playing experience that appeals to a cat’s natural instincts. 

When batted, it makes a realistic squeaking mouse sound and provides an alternative “prey option” for your cat to stalk and chase. 

Not only does this toy provide physical stimulation, but it also provides mental stimulation by encouraging cats to fulfill their hunting instincts.

Benefits

• Realistic electronic sound module
• Encourages physical play and mental stimulation
• Relieves stress, anxiety, and boredom
• Contains catnip

Keep In Mind

• As with any toy, cats may lose interest
• Some cats may be scared of the sound it makes

#17. S-Type Cat Tunnel

The Bemodst S-Type Cat Play Tunnel provides your cat with an exciting play area with connected tunnels that give him plenty of room to hide, stalk, pounce, and chase.

The crackly paper also makes intriguing sounds when your cat steps on it, while the peephole in the center lets him monitor the outside world too. 

Benefits

• High-quality tear-resistant material
• Available in multiple configurations
• Collapsible design for easy travel and storage

Keep In Mind

• Some cats may not be interested
• Takes up a decent amount of floor space but is light and easy to pack up and move

#18. Multi-Feather Teaser And Exerciser

Many cats love wand toys and, with its soft, easy-to-grip foam handle, the Pet Fit For Life Multi-Feather Teaser And Exerciser is perfect for extended playtimes. 

And, as your cat bats at the feathers, he will be rewarded with catnip, making it an even more sensory experience. 

Benefits

• Second feather included
• Easy on/off lobster claw clasp to prevent sharp edges
• Extra long and strong flexible wand (33″)
• Two easy-to-put-together pieces for easy storage

Keep In Mind

• Some cats may eventually destroy the feathers 
• Not all cats will show interest

#19. 5 Pieces Cat Wand Toy

The Jxfukal 5 Pieces Cat Wand Toy combines ribbons, a plush fish toy, and bells to stimulate your cat’s hunting instinct while also engaging him in physical activity.

The toy fish is stuffed with organic catnip and the natural wooden handle is comfortable to hold, while the elastic rope is firmly attached for greater durability. 

Benefits

• Filled with organic catnip
• Durable and safe construction
• Non-toxic and suitable for chewing

Keep In Mind

• Some cats may eventually destroy the fish/ribbons
• Not all cats will show interest

#20. Electronic Cat Toy Mice With Scratching Pad

The Electronic Cat Toy Mice With Scratching Pad features a “whack-a-mole” game where cats can engage in their hunting instincts by “catching” the electronic toy mouse.

The center features an area of fleece fabric where cats can sit while they wait to pounce or use it as a scratch pad to sharpen their hunting claws. 

Benefits

• High-quality safe plastic material
• Three custom modes and various speeds
• 15-minute auto-off timer
• Anti-slip silicone base design

Keep In Mind

• Might be too small for some cats
• Might be too easy for some cats while others may not be interested

#21. Cat Activity Center 

The Petty Love House Cat Activity Center comes with four hanging furry mice and toy balls that encourage cats to bat, roll, stretch, and reach. 

The material is sturdy yet soft enough to make lounging comfortable for your cat while he’s playing. 

If, like me, you have a kitty who loves to lazily lie on his back while batting overhanging objects, this could be just the thing.

Benefits

• Easy to fold up and fit in included zippered storage bag
• Sturdy, soft material for comfort
• Round edges for safety

Keep In Mind

• May not be sturdy enough for some cats
• Supervise your cat while playing to make sure he doesn’t get caught in the hanging cords

Self-Grooming and Comfort Toys For Cats

Cats are fastidious groomers and they also love to rub against surfaces, objects, and people as a way to deposit their scent.

Self-grooming and comfort toys provide cats with a surface to scratch and groom, and generally help them feel relaxed. 

#22. Cat Arch Self-Groomer

The Cooenia Cat Arch Self-Groomer is the ultimate cat grooming station. 

It comes with a soft, arch-shaped brush (12″ high) that is perfect for cats of all sizes to rub up against. 

It also features a cute furry ball on a spring for your cat to bat around and doubles up as a scratcher made of high-density sisal.

Benefits

• Durable sisal material
• Encrypted brush provides a different touching experience
• Easy assemble 

Keep In Mind

• Not all cats will rub against the arch
• Scratch board may eventually need to be replaced

#23. Cat Pillows

The Potaroma Cat Pillows are made of soft-plush material and baby-level cotton, so it’s soft and comfortable enough for your feline friend to snuggle, scratch, bite on, or kick with those powerful hind legs. 

Even better, they are stuffed with organic catnip that many cats will find irresistible, as well as crinkle paper that makes an intriguing sound for your cat to investigate. 

Benefits

• Stimulates cats’ hunting instincts
• Pack of three different colors
• Durable and hard-wearing

Keep In Mind

• May not appeal to all cats
• Cats may lose interest 

#24. Catit Senses 2.0 Wellness Center

The Catit Senses 2.0 Wellness Center is a circular grooming “spa,” with a variety of cat brushes, textures, and massage ridges your cat can use as self-groomers. 

It gives options for your cat to have a head, neck, face, or body massage and also features self-grooming brushes to collect any loose hairs. 

Benefits

• Designed to stimulate your cat’s five senses
• Offers 360° of cat grooming
• Some cats will love to lounge and doze on the accompanying green mat 

Keep In Mind

• Original mat may be thin for some cats
• May need to use catnip or treats to encourage interaction
• May be better for smaller cats

#25. Cat Mat

The Awoof Cat Mat is a stylish and comfortable lounging or sleeping mat made of cotton and quilted faux fur with a super-soft top layer. 

Not to mention all the interactive features, like crinkle paper, hidden toys, and treat pockets to keep your cat busy and entertained.

Benefits

• Safety-tested, durable
• Lightweight and foldable
• Machine washable

Keep In Mind

• May be small for some cats
• Cats may chew the toys, causing small fragments to fall off so, as with all toys, take care to supervise your cat

Before You Go

• It’s important to remember that no toy is indestructible, so make sure to supervise your cat when he is playing with his cat toys and inspect them regularly for damage.

• Make sure your cat does not swallow or ingest any parts of a toy, including small fragments or fibers, and discard toys immediately if their edges become sharp or frayed.

• Be aware of any potential choking hazard and/or risk of intestinal blockage if your cat gets tangled in or ingests any small parts of a toy.

• If you suspect your cat has eaten or accidentally swallowed any small fragment or part of a toy, check with your veterinarian just to be safe.

• Choose an appropriate size toy for your cat to ensure his safety.

• Always have plenty of fresh water available for your furry friend.

By following these simple guidelines, you and your cat can enjoy hours of safe fun with a variety of interactive toys that provide mental stimulation and keep his brain active.

And don’t forget to take advantage of all those cardboard boxes his new toys are delivered in too. As we all know, fancy cat toys or not, every cat loves a good cardboard box!

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