*UPDATED 2026*
Not all cats play the same. Some are Olympic-level sprinters, others are… committed to the couch.
And while it might look like they’re just goofing around, playtime is actually serious business. It taps into hunting instincts, burns energy, and keeps their brains ticking over.
So, instead of buying random cat toys for them to play with and hoping for the best, let’s match your cat’s personality to their ideal playmate.
For the instinctual hunters…
Meaning: When the clock hits “you should be asleep,” they hear “time to ramp things up”. They’re channelling their hunting instincts and the darkness of night only enhances the challenge!
Their perfect match: Wand toys (feathers, ribbons, anything that “escapes”). Or, fast-moving fun, like an erratic moving speedy mouse cat toy. If you cat would chase a laser, then this is for them.
Why? It mimics real hunting behaviour. The slower the tease, the more satisfying the pounce. Use these cat toys for pre-bed play sessions, to help turn midnight chaos into… slightly less midnight chaos…!
For the quiet but cunning kitties…
Meaning: They’re usually plotting something. Quietly calculating. This type of cat behaviour doesn’t just want to play. They want a challenge.
Their perfect match: Puzzle toys for cats & problem-solving games. Hidden treats, sliding compartments, toys that require a bit of strategy. A cost-effective solution here would be cutting holes in a cardboard box, then turn it upside down and play whack-a-mole with them!
Why? Mental stimulation is everything. Without it, they’ll create their own fun… usually involving cupboards or forbidden shelves.
If your cat’s a lazy loaf…
Meaning: They’re horizontal almost all the time, and they consider turning their head a form of exercise. They’re not uninterested, they just prefer not to have to exhaust themselves physically.
Their perfect match: Would be an interactive toy play mat that provides low-energy entertainment. Think treat mazes or gentle-moving games that are less ‘parkour’ and more ‘escape room’. A cat toy mat with hidden balls like the one featured below.
Why? You’re engaging their brain without asking for a full athletic performance. It’s enrichment disguised as minimal effort. Everyone wins!
Cat toys for the Wrestlemania champion
Meaning: They’re up for full-contact play. Swiping, and their signature move – grab, kick, bite, repeat. These fiesty felines need an outlet for that instinct to grab and shred.
Their perfect match: Kicker toys & durable plush toys. Catnip filled toys will also direct their energy towards the toys you’re happy they destroy! The one featured below is a Lexi & Me plush cat toy with catnip that can be inserted into the bird’s belly. Or, see if they’ll expel energy on a cardboard cat scratcher. Otherwise, why not make your own – here are 3 DIY cat toys you can make with toilet rolls!
Why? These toys provide the stress relief and energy release they’re looking for. They need a safe outlet for that “capture and destroy” instinct. Otherwise, your limbs become fair game!
If your cat is clingy…
Meaning: They’ll only participate in play if you do. They want a companion to share in the fun, and they consider playtime more like bonding time – they toy is just the prop.
Their perfect match: Wand toys (where you control the action), fetch-style toys, and anything interactive. Think feather wands like the Kong Curlz Cat Teaser toy pictured below.
Why? For them, play is connection. They’re your shadow so unless you’re playing too, their toy collection might as well be non-existent.
If your cat is tough to please…
Meaning: They’ll play for 10 seconds, then look at you with judgement. They have almost impossible standards, and become bored very easily. Today’s favourite toy is tomorrow’s trash.
Their perfect match: A rotating toy lineup! Mix up their play time with interactive gadgets, crinkly/noisy toys, and unpredictable toys. Novelty is everything. If it feels new, it’s interesting.
Why? They’re not bored, they’re over it. Variety keeps things feeling fresh and worthy of their attention. This doesn’t mean buying a new toy every week. It just means hiding some away while others are the hot topic, and cycling through accordingly.
Looking for the perfect match for your kitty when you’re away?
