if you screw up your uncle frank’s gift, the worst that’s likely to happen is that he’ll rib you about it for a bit. but there’s someone else that if you screw up their gift, they may not take it as kindly — and they know where you sleep. we’re talking about your cat, of course.
if you get your kitty something that they don’t like, you could wake up to find your furniture destroyed, fresh poop on the floor, and a dead mouse in your shoe. luckily, you don’t have to worry about any of that if you buy your kitty one of the gifts on this list, as each one is sure to make your furry friend incredibly happy (and your shoes free of mice!).
the 31 best gift ideas for cats in 2024
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hepper catnip stick toy |
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catit flower plastic cat fountain |
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hepper hi-lo modern cat scratcher |
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smartykat hot pursuit electronic concealed motion cat toy |
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frisco foldable play tri-tunnel cat toy |
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the 31 best gifts for cats
1. hepper catnip stick toy
it’s no secret cats love catnip, so why not give them a catnip stick toy to enjoy? hepper’s catnip stick toy is a great gift idea for cats, and your cat will enjoy batting this stick around while enjoying the pleasures of catnip.
it’s double-lined for added strength and filled with 100% north american organic catnip. it doesn’t contain cheap filler materials, and it’s handmade in the us. the size is 1 x 6 inches, making it the perfect size for any cat and all types of play that allows a cat to bite, scratch, nip, and paw. you can choose between three beautiful pastel colors: burmese blue, siamese beige, and korat gray.
cats need physical and mental stimulation, and this stick toy will provide both for any cat. if you’re on the hunt for the best gift idea for your cat or even a friend or family member’s cat, this is our favorite choice overall. this toy is a little pricy, but it will last for ages, making it worth the expense.
at catster, we’ve admired hepper for many years and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!
2. catit flower plastic cat fountain
most cats prefer to drink from running water rather than stagnant pools — that’s why they flock to your faucets. you can give them that experience all the time with the catit flower fountain, as it cycles water throughout its body to give your cat a fresh drink.
there are three flow settings, so you can make the water move as fast or slow as your cat likes, and there’s a triple-action filter inside that removes nastiness like calcium, magnesium, and general debris.
the flower is just decorative, so far as we can tell, but we’re sure your cat will appreciate it all the same.
3. hepper hi-lo cat scratcher
most cat scratchers are nothing more than cheap pieces of cardboard, meaning they’re ugly, flimsy, and offer little incentive for cats to use them. the hepper hi-lo scratcher, on the other hand, has a sleek modern design that your cat won’t be able to resist.
you can set it up in three different positions, ensuring that it’s always enticing to your feline friend, and the thick cardboard will last quite a while (and there are replacement cardboard pieces available when your cat does scratch it to oblivion). it’s sturdy so your cat can lean into their scratches, and it’s easy to set up and care for.
at catster, we’ve admired hepper for many years, and decided to take a controlling ownership interest, so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!
4. smartykat hot pursuit electronic concealed motion cat toy
if there’s one thing that cats can’t resist, it’s something moving underneath covers (just ask your toes if you don’t believe us). the smartykat hot pursuit has a wand that spins around unpredictably, all while covered by fabric.
the result is fairly irresistible for cats, as they just have to attack whatever it is that’s running around underneath the cover. not only will this keep them endlessly entertained, but it also stimulates their brain’s need to hunt and provides them with much-needed exercise.
it’s great for cats that are home alone or for owners who simply love watching their furry friends pounce.
5. frisco foldable play tri-tunnel cat toy
the only thing that your cat may like more than attacking something hidden is being the thing that’s hidden. you can provide them with that opportunity by giving them the frisco foldable play tri-tunnel cat toy, which has three chambers for your cat to hide in or race through.
it’s big enough for even the largest cats to play around in, and it collapses when your cat’s done playing. it also has dangling toys that help keep your pet interested.
6. hepper stainless steel cat water fountain
the hepper stainless steel water fountain has an inviting design that mimics a natural water source, encouraging cats to drink more and stay hydrated. this fountain boasts a sophisticated three-part filtration system that includes an ion-exchange resin filter for demineralization, a coconut-shell activated-carbon filter for removing impurities, and a purification step for improved taste.
with a capacity of just over 1/2 gallon, it ensures your cat always has access to fresh water. its elegant stainless-steel design complements any home decor, but regular cleaning and filter replacement are essential for its long-term performance. i
at catster, we’ve admired hepper for many years, and decided to take a controlling ownership interest, so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!
7. frisco latte gift box cat toy with catnip
your cat watches you chug coffee every morning, and they’ve been feeling left out. that doesn’t have to be the case if you get them this latte gift box from frisco, however.
there are five coffee-themed toys inside this box, and they’re certainly not decaf! each one is stuffed with catnip, so your kitty will be just as wired as you are after your third cup of the morning.
8. ethical pet sponge soccer ball cat toy
you can stage a feline world cup inside your living room with the ethical pet sponge soccer balls. these little toys can be tossed around the house, providing your cat something to stalk, hunt, and claw to pieces.
the soft foam ensures that their claws won’t be hurt, and the bright colors will keep them interested. your cat will likely play with them even if you just leave them out, but the real attraction is spending hours tossing them for your kitty and watching them go to town.
9. catit design senses circuit cat toy
all kids love racecar tracks, and cats are nothing more than murderous little children. the catit design senses circuit cat toy has a ball that runs along the track, and your cat can chase that little ball up and down the length of the toy.
if you have multiple cats, they’ll love teaming up to try to corner that ball, and the tunnels are wide enough to ensure that your cat’s paws won’t get stuck.
10. pet fit for life 5 piece squiggly worm wand cat toy
the simplest toys are often the most addictive, and the pet fit for life squiggly worm wand is certainly simple. it’s just a carbon fiber worm attached to a fiberglass pole, but you can entertain your cat for hours with it.
the best part is that it allows you to truly bond with your cat. while they stalk and hunt the worm, you can keep them on their toes and force them to try to anticipate your next move. once you’re done playing, your cat will be exhausted — and thankful for the exercise.
11. ourpets sushi treat dispensing puzzle toy
the ourpets sushi treat dispensing toy looks like a plate of tuna rolls, and it can be just as attractive to your cat as the real thing. each of the sushi covers flips up to reveal a treat underneath, so your cat will be occupied for hours trying to get every last hidden morsel.
it’s also a great way to feed cats that scarf down their food, as it forces them to take their time and really earn each bite. since it challenges their brain, there’s a good chance that they’ll be exhausted after playing with it.
12. doggles sushi shrimp cat toy
if your cat needs the biggest piece of seafood that you can find, the doggles sushi shrimp should fit the bill. this is a giant plush shrimp doll with a catnip packet tucked away inside, so your cat should immediately get to work trying to disembowel the thing.
cats love to toss it, chase it, and of course, grab it with their front paws and scratch it with their back feet. it also makes for a great cuddle toy if you have a cat that struggles with separation anxiety.
13. petstages tower of tracks cat toy
the petstages tower of tracks has three different balls to play with, each with its own independent track. that gives your cat plenty of options when it comes to deciding what to hunt, and the stimulation might just cause their brain to temporarily short-circuit.
having multiple balls also means that it can entertain multiple cats simultaneously, and no one needs to fight over anything. there are non-skid pads on the bottom, so it should stay in place no matter how roughly they play with it.
14. frisco 72-in faux fur cat tree & condo
all cats love to have a cozy place to lounge, and the frisco faux fur cat tree & condo is the height of feline luxury. it’s 6 feet tall, which offers them plenty of vertical room to climb and explore, and it’s covered in comfy faux fur.
there’s a lookout tower on top that makes a perfect hideout for skittish kitties, and there’s plenty of scratching space for them to sharpen their claws. not only is this a great place for your cat to relax, but they’ll also get plenty of stimulation and exercise here.
15. petfusion ultimate lounge memory foam bolster pet bed
let’s face it: your cat’s bed is wherever they decide it’s going to be at the time. that said, if you want to give them the most attractive sleeping location possible, the petfusion ultimate lounge memory foam bolster cat & dog bed with removable cover is the way to go.
this is a giant bed, so even the largest breeds will have plenty of room to stretch out. it’s made with plush memory foam, which in addition to being comfortable, offers plenty of support to aging joints. it has a bolster running around the sides, ensuring that even the klutziest cats won’t roll off accidentally when they’re having that mouse-chasing dream again.
16. ethical pet plush mice cheesebox
if your cat goes through an excessive number of plush toys — or if you just want to hide them all over the house to turn your entire pad into your kitty’s hunting ground — the ethical pet plush mice cheesebox is the way to go. there are a whopping 60 mice inside this box, so if one gets destroyed or lost behind the fridge, it’s no big deal.
not only does this enable you to provide your pet with plenty of entertainment, but it also makes it a great gift for shelters or rescues. if you’re hoping to brighten the day for a few forgotten cats, this is an excellent (and cost-effective) way to do it.
17. district 70 sardine cardboard cat scratcher toy
the best cat toys are functional and attractive, as nobody likes having a house full of ugly accessories that you have to explain away when guests arrive. the district 70 sardine cardboard cat scratcher is as interesting and quirky as it is useful, and you may even get compliments on it.
some of those compliments will undoubtedly come from your cat, as the box is equal parts scratching post and impenetrable fortress. made of eco-friendly recycled cardboard, it can sharpen their nails as they scratch it, and the sardine can design gives it a little flair.
18. trixie activity fun board 5-in-1 strategy game cat toy
if you have a furry little einstein on your hands, the trixie fun board can put that formidable intellect to the test. it has five different challenges in all, each designed to make your cat really think to figure them out. simply hide a treat in one of the challenges, and watch as your pet has to work out the best way to get their meal.
it’s almost endlessly customizable, so if your cat starts to figure it out, you can always ratchet up the difficulty level. best of all, though, it’s dishwasher-safe, so you don’t have to deal with it starting to smell vaguely of fish over time.
19. potaroma realistic moving cat kicker fish toy
if you want to be the most awesome cat parent ever, you can buy your kitty a real carp and toss it on the floor for them to attack. if you want to be the most awesome cat parent ever and you want to get your security deposit back, you can just give your cat the potaroma realistic moving fish toy.
it looks just like a real fish, and it flops around like one too. it’s rechargeable (and comes with its own usb cable), so the fun never has to stop. if for some reason your cat isn’t interested, you can rub the included catnip all over it. it’s the best way to have a happy cat without making your home smell like a fishing boat.
20. custom catch personalized cat bed blanket
cats love being warm, and you can give them their very own blanket — complete with their name stitched on it — to help keep them cozy on even the coldest of nights. the custom catch personalized cat bed blanket is plush and cozy, and it’s even machine washable, so you don’t have to watch it slowly accumulate tons of cat hair.
even though it’s personalized, it’s surprisingly affordable. it also comes in two colors, enabling you to match it to your existing décor. of course, you may wonder why you need your cat’s name on it; after all, if you put their name on everything that belonged to them, you’d have to label your entire house.
21. the cat ladies organic pet grass grow kit with planter
cat grass is important for your kitty’s digestion, but continually bringing fresh grass home from the store can get expensive. you can solve both problems with the cat ladies organic pet grass grow kit, as it enables you to nurture your own patch of grass right at home.
the grass is an organic mix of wheat, oats, rye, barley, and flax, giving your kitty a complex nutritional profile, and it’s chemical and gmo free. it also comes with an adorable little planter, so it will dress up your home while it helps keep your cat regular.
22. k&h pet products ez mount window scratcher kitty sill cradle
the sad fact is that any toy that you buy your cat will eventually get boring; there’s only so much novelty that even the greatest toy can offer. if you want to give your cat something that’s endlessly entertaining, there’s nothing better than a front-row seat to the great outdoors, and that’s exactly what the k&h pet products ez mount kitty sill offers. it attaches to a window via sturdy suction cups, and it provides a comfortable spot for your cat to spy on the local wildlife. it also gives your cat a hiding spot when they need to get away from your kids or dog, and it’s easy to move if they need brand-new scenery. there’s nothing quite as satisfying as giving your cat treats — it makes them happy, and that makes you happy, so everyone wins, right? not quite — unfortunately, most cat treats are full of second-rate ingredients that do little more than fatten up your cat. that’s not the case with the polkadog cod skins. made from dehydrated cod skin, they’re a great source of nutrition (including those all-important omega fatty acids) for your cat, and most kitties lose their mind over them. they’re expensive, but they’re also worth every penny, especially when you see how much your cat flips over them. you may not think your cat needs any help grooming themselves, but the catit senses 2.0 wellness center will take their self-care routine to the next level. it can massage their head, neck, and body, and there are several grooming brushes to help collect loose hair. don’t be surprised if this quickly becomes your cat’s favorite spot in the house, as it’s great at providing a soothing place for them to relax. in fact, your biggest concern should probably be whether this thing will eventually replace you. most cats lose their minds over laser points, but they require you to sit there and operate them for your cat to have any fun. that’s not the case with the serenelife automatic laser cat toy — it can fire lasers for your cat to chase even when you’re not home. the path of the lasers is unpredictable, so your cat shouldn’t get bored, and it’s wireless, so you can put it virtually anywhere. the beam can be clearly seen on any surface, so your cat shouldn’t lose it (even if they never catch it either). the kong play spaces burrow is basically the perfect kitty fortress: it’s a wide tube with a hole in the side, perfect for vicious broadside attacks on unsuspecting siblings or human legs. skittish cats will love it because it provides a sense of security, and two catnip-infused toys are attached to it in order to provide entertainment. as if that weren’t enough, the whole thing crinkles, so your cat will get stimulation from all angles. mostly, though, they’ll use it to launch sneak attacks on you. nothing provides more entertainment and mental stimulation for cats than exposure to the outdoors, but unfortunately, being allowed to roam around outdoors can shorten your cat’s lifespan. a solution to this problem is the aivituvin outdoor catio, which lets your cat sit outside without being exposed to all the things out there that might want to kill them. it has several levels for them to climb and explore, and the stiff wire mesh ensures that predators won’t be able to get at them. a safe way to expose your cat to the great outdoors is to leash-train them and take them on walks with you, and the kitty holster can help you do just that. available in seven attractive colors, it fits snugly over your cat’s torso, ensuring that they can escape even if they get spooked. it’s easy to put on, even if your cat’s not sure about this whole “walking” business, and the fabric is breathable enough that they shouldn’t overheat on a warm day. you can even toss it in the washing machine if it gets dirty. the cat dancer products rainbow cat charmer will provide endless amounts of entertainment for your cat, as it has long, colorful fabric attached to a durable polycarbonate wand. the fabric moves and “dances” unpredictably, forcing your cat to activate those long-buried hunting instincts. it’s a great way to give your cat some exercise, and since you’ll have to use it together, it will help you bond with one another. it’s also hilarious to watch how wild this drives cats, but whatever you do, don’t let them know that you’re the one causing it to move. if you have an older cat, having to stoop over in order to eat may be putting undue strain on their neck and back. you can solve that problem with the necoichi elevated cat food bowl, as it brings their chow right up to mouth level. it’s just as useful for young, healthy cats because it makes it easier to swallow and leads to smoother digestion. since you’re the one who’ll be cleaning the litter box, we’re sure you can appreciate that. laser toys are endlessly amusing to cats, but they can have worrisome side effects. if you want to provide your kitty with the same level of entertainment — but without the potential issues involved —the pawzone rotating butterfly & ball is the way to go. there are two butterfly toys on bouncy wands that move around randomly, forcing your cat to hunt them. if that ever gets old, there’s a ball on a track underneath that they can bat around and chase to their heart’s content. if you want to give your cat a little something to show that you care, the items on this list are a great place to start. we’ve included everything from toys and houses to specialized gadgets that only a truly dedicated cat owner would consider buying, so there’s bound to be something that your cat needs here. see also: featured image credit: 5 second studio, shutterstock
23. polkadog cod skins dehydrated cat treats
24. catit senses 2.0 wellness center
25. serenelife automatic laser cat toy
26. kong play spaces burrow cat toy
27. aivituvin cat house outdoor catio
28. kitty holster cat harness
29. cat dancer products rainbow cat charmer
30. necoichi elevated cat food bowl
31. pawzone automatic rotating butterfly & ball exercise toy
the perfect cat gift is somewhere on this list
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