Best Cat Toys Your Feline Friend Will Love

If you can't swing by the pet store for a food or litter restock without an adorable toy or two finding their way into your cart, we understand. There's nothing cuter than watching your kitty roll around on the floor with their favorite plaything, and watching that tail twitch as you take a new cat toy out of the package.

But cat toys aren't just fun for Fluffy; they're actually good for cats' health. Veterinarians say that playing has several very real benefits for felines. First, it can help them maintain a healthy weight if they're running around the house regularly, rather than sleeping every moment away. That, in turn, can help them live longer and keep chronic health conditions like heart disease and diabetes at bay. Play also keeps them mentally sharp. Just like people doing crosswords or Sudoku to limber up their brains, puzzle play engages cats' minds and staves off boredom, which also boosts their mood.

Plus, playing with your pet can improve your bond, too. Whether dangling a feather toy, tossing a catnip mouse across the room, or setting up a cat obstacle course (yes, they exist!), engaging with your pet will strengthen your relationship, which can even lead to better-behaved pets. If you're convinced, check out our list of top-rated cat toys below — and share your favorites in the comments! Have a dog, too? We've also got recommendations for the best dog toys you can buy.