Catnip toys provide stimulation, encouraging exercise and play. The best toys for cats are an interactive experience where you get to bond with your feline friend. Catnip (Nepeta cataria) is a perennial herb that comes from the mint family. It contains an essential oil called nepetalactone and when this oil is inhaled by a cat, it stimulates the cells in the back of their nose with a euphoric effect. It's perfectly safe to grow catnip in the garden, then dry it and give it to your cat, albeit not too often.
Enhancing overall feline wellbeing and interaction, catnip products include catnip-filled toys, catnip-infused scratching posts, sprays, scented wands, tunnels, and catnip-infused edible treats. Catnip is generally safe for cats - it may cause temporary behavioural changes but it is non-toxic. However, some cats might react differently, so do monitor their response.
The best catnip toys at a glance
• Best catnip-filled plush mice: Petstages Squeak Squeak Mouse Plush Catnip Cat Toy – View on Amazon UK
• Best catnip-infused balls: STARROAD-TIM Catnip Balls – View on Amazon UK
• Best catnip-stuffed fish: Natuce 3PCS 30cm Catnip Fish Toys – View on Amazon UK
The great news is that catnip toys can be a cheap and cheerful purchase. Unlike techy interactive cat toys, a simple mouse or wand is less than £5. If your kitty is a bit of a destructive dynamo, you definitely don't want to be spending excessive money on toys that will get torn to shreds. Importantly, a catnip-filled toy can divert an aggressive kitty from ripping the sofa and clawing at the carpet. Having a range of stimulating toys helps to alleviate stress and anxiety and results in playful antics.
Catnip induces fun when playing and makes a toy, scratching post or new piece of cat furniture more attractive. Interestingly, catnip has a stimulant effect when it's inhaled and more of a sedative effect when it's eaten. So if you're trying to encourage a lazy puss to play with their mice, balls and kicker pillows, catnip is a great aid. Scroll to the FAQs for more guidance on catnip.
Best catnip toys
Best catnip-filled plush mice
For feline euphoria this claw-some Petstages Squeak Squeak Mouse Plush Catnip Cat Toy squeaks when your cat bats it. The sound lasts for seconds, then automatically turns off – good news if your cat is carrying it in its mouth. It's an engaging squeaky toy that appeals to your kitty's natural hunting instincts. Containing catnip, your pet will want to chase it for hours.
Customer review: "I buy things like this all the time and the cat ignores them, but this one she loves. Never stops playing with it."
Pros
- Perfect size, weight and shape for a cat
- Play in a variety of ways
- Interactive squeak
Cons
- Not indestructible, so best to supervise play
Best catnip-infused balls
Your kitty will be feline fine with STARROAD-TIM Catnip Balls. These novel cat lick balls come in an assortment of flavours: Silvervine, Gall Nut, Catnip and Cat Nutrition Sugar. Multiple flavours for your cat to lick, help to dispel boredom, increase appetite and stimulation. In addition, plant fibre helps cats to discharge hair balls. The rotatable, edible balls are mounted on a removable base and can be separately affixed to surfaces if you'd prefer to spread them out.
Customer review: "Three of my cats have lost their minds over this. They loved it. They’ve calmed a bit now but even if they don’t go back to it … it was so worth it to see them so happy."
Pros
- Aid dental health
- 360° rotatable balls
- Improves wellbeing
- Variety of flavours
Cons
- Not all cats will like the flavours
Best catnip-stuffed fish
Have a shoal lot of fun with Natuce 3PCS 30cm Catnip Fish Toys. You get three realistic fish and two packs of catnip. The toy fish has a zip so you can replace the catnip from time to time. The outer covering is made of dense wool fibre that's soft and durable. It's filled with PP cotton that holds its shape, and catnip that stimulates cats to play. Cats and kittens will love to chew on their fishy friends, which is great for their dental health.
Customer review: "My 15 year old cat loves these fish. They must have a strong catnip scent to them – more than usual, I think, which has revived his interest in being playful! They actually look uncannily realistic (if that's a plus point…). Recommended."
Pros
- Effective toy
- Value for money
- Strong catnip scent
Cons
- Loses potency over time
Best catnip-scented kicker toys
Pounce on the fun with FELISTORY 3 Pcs Interactive Cat Kicker Toy. These adorable cat kicker toys are an Amazon's Choice product. Stuffed with soft PP cotton, natural catnip and sound paper, the toys enhance your cat's interactivity. Keep your kitty' busy and relaxed with an exciting plaything that's naturally energising. Develop younger cats' hunting instincts, chew training and chasing skills. Over time, replenish the scent of catnip with a spray.
Customer review: "My cat is scared of toys but this one is the only one she will play with, she loves it a lot."
Pros
- Ideal for kittens
- Promotes digestion
- Teeth cleaning
- Alleviates boredom
Cons
- Not suitable for aggressive cats
Best catnip-filled pillows
No kitten around with the Bojafa Catnip Pillow! Get five super cute small chew toys that are packed with natural catnip that helps to stimulate teething kittens to play. A soft plaything to distract unruly cats from scratching the sofa and destroying things around the house. Chewing promotes better oral health with an exfoliating action that removes plaque from teeth.
Customer review: "My cat is obsessed with these catnip plushies. I’m glad I got a five-pack because he destroys them but they keep him well entertained. Really good toys for cats."
Pros
- Durable
- Promotes good dental health
Cons
- The sides split with rough play
Best catnip-filled wand toy
www.etsy.com
Catch some moon beams with the Magical Moon Cat Wand Catnip Toy. This lovely handmade cat wand toy is a wonderful way to strengthen the bond between you and your cat. Aid them to practise hunting and chasing, as well as release built-up energy. Cat Outta Hell has a huge range of alternative cat toys to collect – they make a fabulous gift idea for cat lovers too.
Customer review: "My cats have not stopped playing with these toys since they have arrived, they absolutely love it! The quality of the toys is exceptional and it delights my little goth heart to see such pretty toys appreciated by our girls too."
Pros
- Organic catnip
- Handmade
- Quality materials
Cons
- Ribbon will eventually get chewed up
Best catnip-infused tunnel
www.petsathome.com
Willow's Scratch and Hide Cat Tunnel Toy is just paw-fect for scratching. This multifunctional cat furniture helps your cat to shed old nail sheaths and gives them an opportunity to stretch and tone their muscles. Infused with catnip, it will peak your cat's curiosity.
Customer review: "Both of my cats love to scratch and chew on this tunnel, they play with the tunnel together."
Pros
- Textured surface for your cat to enjoy
- Protects your furniture and carpets
- Hideaway in the tunnel or pounce from the top
Cons
- Will deteriorate over time
Best catnip-scented scratch pads
Stimulate your cat's senses and protect your furniture with this durable Nobleza Cat Scratcher with Catnip. Sprinkle catnip on this corrugated cardboard cat scratcher to encourage your kitty to sharpen their claws. With a fun eye-catching fish pattern, this versatile cat scratcher can be flipped over for double-sized use and vertical scratching. Additionally, the comfy rear board prevents your cat from falling off while sleeping on it.
Customer review: "It was smaller than expected so I didn't think my cat would use it but she loves it. It comes with catnip which I sprinkled all over it. She jumped on top of it. Scratched the top and sides, then hid inside it. It probably wouldnt suit a larger cat due to the size but is definitely value for money."
Pros
- Durable
- Stress relief
- Catnip included
Cons
- Will deteriorate over time
Best catnip-filled plush fruits
Watch your pussycat swat and bat this Petstages Dental Banana Catnip Cat Chew Toy for hours. This super cute chew toy is stuffed with catnip that makes it irresistible to cats. This dental chew toy is made of mesh material that gently removes tartar and plague build-up on your cat's teeth. Be aware that the various textures of the toy – that can help massage your cat's gums – are not suitable for small biters or felines that play aggressively.
Customer review: "My cat is obsessed with these toys. He loves the banana, the pretzel and the avocado. I have had to stock up. He isn't usually bothered by catnip so I cannot recommend these enough."
Pros
- Cute
- Diverts destructive behaviour
- Improves dental health
Cons
- Smell of catnip will wear off over time
Best catnip-infused crinkle toys
Shoals of fun! Your cat will be on sparkling form with these Youngever 15 Pack Crinkle Catnip Cat Toys. Each colourful fish contains catnip and a plastic crinkle. Tease your cat and watch them go wild for these cute metallic toys.
Customer review: "My cat absolutely loves these things. The slight crinkle is perfect to keep her entertained, yet they are light enough that she can bat them around and pounce. My three month old kitten is very happy with the amount of fish in an order."
Pros
- Value pack
- Multiple textures
- Vibrant colours
Cons
- Eyes can detach with rough play
FAQs: Catnip toys
What are the effects of catnip?
Catnip can induce a pleasurable response and playfulness in cats when smelled or ingested. It enriches their playtime, promoting mental and physical stimulation. Also, catnip can relax stressed cats, reduce anxiety, pain relief and help with separation anxiety.
Eating catnip makes cats relaxed and a little sleepy. In the same way humans can take Valerian root to ease symptoms of pain and anxiety, catnip is a natural herbal remedy to enhance wellbeing. Note that some cats can react slightly aggressively and catnip is not effective for all; some cats are non-responsive.
In rare cases, excessive use may cause a stomach upset. If your cat exhibits symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea and dizziness, they may have ingested too much catnip. Consult your vet on what is a safe amount for your cat.
How long do the effects of catnip last in cats?
Catnip affects cats in different ways, but generally, 10 minutes is the amount of time cats' behaviour is altered by catnip. It then takes an hour or two for your cat to be sensitive to catnip again.
What behaviours will I see in a cat that's inhaled catnip?
When a cat inhales catnip, it may exhibit behaviours like rolling, rubbing, purring, increased playfulness, and heightened excitement. Some cats may become more vocal or hyperactive, while others may simply relax.
The PDSA have a step-by-step guide on how to make a catnip toy. All you need is some felt, catnip, string, scissors and something to sew with.
What behaviours will I see in a cat that's eaten catnip?
When a cat eats catnip, it may initially show less pronounced effects compared to inhalation. Common responses include chewing, licking and increased relaxation. Eating catnip can induce a milder response compared to inhaling it.
How often can I give my cat catnip?
It's best not to make catnip a daily treat. The more a cat is exposed to catnip, the less effective it is and overindulgence may lead to a temporary loss of interest. Moderation is key, so every one to two weeks is fine.
Natalie Knowles is a Homes & Garden Product Writer for Take A Break Pets, specialising in all things cats and dogs. In her other life Natalie is a successful artist and illustrator.