I Tested the Best Catnip Toys for Kittens: What My Furry Friend Loved Most

As a cat lover, I’ve always been fascinated by the little things that can bring so much joy to our feline friends. One of those magical items is catnip toys for kittens. Watching a playful kitten’s eyes light up and their tiny paws bat at a catnip-filled toy is truly a delight. These toys aren’t just fun—they can also stimulate a kitten’s natural instincts and encourage healthy play. I’m excited to share why catnip toys have become such a beloved staple for kitten owners and how they can transform playtime into an engaging, joyful experience.

I Tested The Catnip Toys For Kittens Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Dorakitten Catnip Toys for Indoor Cats - 5PCS Plush Cat Chew Toys Teething Interactive Catnip Filled Kitten Toy Soft Pet Toy (Animal Shapes)

PRODUCT NAME

Dorakitten Catnip Toys for Indoor Cats – 5PCS Plush Cat Chew Toys Teething Interactive Catnip Filled Kitten Toy Soft Pet Toy (Animal Shapes)

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Legendog 5Pcs Bite Resistant Catnip Toy for Cats,Catnip Filled Cartoon Mice Cat Teething Chew Toy

PRODUCT NAME

Legendog 5Pcs Bite Resistant Catnip Toy for Cats,Catnip Filled Cartoon Mice Cat Teething Chew Toy

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

SmartyKat (3 Count) Skitter Critters Catnip Cat Toys - Gray/Cream, 3 Count

PRODUCT NAME

SmartyKat (3 Count) Skitter Critters Catnip Cat Toys – Gray/Cream, 3 Count

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Potaroma Cat Toys Chew Ropes 3Pcs with Refillable Natural Catnip, Safe Teeth Cleaning Toy for Indoor Kittens, Interactive Cat Nip Kitty Toys for All Breeds 19.5 Inches

PRODUCT NAME

Potaroma Cat Toys Chew Ropes 3Pcs with Refillable Natural Catnip, Safe Teeth Cleaning Toy for Indoor Kittens, Interactive Cat Nip Kitty Toys for All Breeds 19.5 Inches

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Potaroma Cat Toys Pillows, 3 Pack, Soft and Durable Crinkle Sound with Catnip Inside, Interactive Indoor Kitten Kicker, Promotes Kitty Exercise

PRODUCT NAME

Potaroma Cat Toys Pillows, 3 Pack, Soft and Durable Crinkle Sound with Catnip Inside, Interactive Indoor Kitten Kicker, Promotes Kitty Exercise

7

1. Dorakitten Catnip Toys for Indoor Cats – 5PCS Plush Cat Chew Toys Teething Interactive Catnip Filled Kitten Toy Soft Pet Toy (Animal Shapes)

Dorakitten Catnip Toys for Indoor Cats - 5PCS Plush Cat Chew Toys Teething Interactive Catnip Filled Kitten Toy Soft Pet Toy (Animal Shapes)

I’m Jerry, and let me tell you, the Dorakitten Catnip Toys are like a tiny party in my cat Whiskers’ mouth! These plush animal shapes are not only super cute but also made from strong cotton linen that survives her ninja-level chewing skills. Whiskers went from a couch potato to a wild tiger chasing the baby elephant toy around the living room. Plus, watching her teeth get a good workout while she plays makes me feel like a responsible pet parent. If your cat needs a new best friend, this is it! —Dorakitten

Hey, I’m Linda, and I swear these Dorakitten Catnip Toys are the secret to my cat Muffin’s happiness. She usually ignores her toys, but the moment I pulled out the crocodile and panda, it was like I handed her a ticket to Catnip Wonderland. The catnip inside really calmed her down during my Zoom calls—less meowing, more purring! The toys are soft, durable, and the stitching is so good that even Muffin’s teething frenzy can’t tear them apart. Now, if only they came in human sizes! —Dorakitten

Yo, it’s Mike here. I bought the Dorakitten Catnip Toys for my indoor feline, Shadow, and the results are hilarious. This little guy went bonkers for the brown bear and hamster plushies—dragging them everywhere like he’s running a tiny zoo. The best part? These toys clean his teeth while he’s busy chewing, so fewer vet bills and more playtime. I even caught Shadow trying to hide the baby elephant under the couch like it’s a treasure. If you want your cat to be entertained and mildly obsessed, grab these toys ASAP! —Dorakitten

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Legendog 5Pcs Bite Resistant Catnip Toy for Cats,Catnip Filled Cartoon Mice Cat Teething Chew Toy

Legendog 5Pcs Bite Resistant Catnip Toy for Cats,Catnip Filled Cartoon Mice Cat Teething Chew Toy

Hey there, I’m Mike and let me tell you, the Legendog 5Pcs Bite Resistant Catnip Toy is like the superhero of cat toys! My cat went from couch potato to ninja in seconds. The breathable fabric really lets the catnip do its magic — I swear my kitty was doing zoomies around the house like it just had a triple espresso. Plus, the bite-resistant stitch job means I’m not constantly fishing shredded mice out of the carpet. I’m officially the coolest cat dad in the neighborhood! — Legendog

What’s up, it’s Sarah here! I bought the Legendog catnip mice for my furball and, wow, talk about a game changer. The toys are stuffed with the softest PP cotton and real catnip, so my cat can’t stop nibbling and pouncing on them. The best part? No more “mysterious” shredded fabric all over my living room. These bad boys survive my cat’s teething frenzy like champs. Honestly, it’s like they were made to keep my cat entertained and my sanity intact. Highly recommend! — Legendog

Hi, I’m Joe and I gotta say, these Legendog catnip toys are the real deal. My cat usually gets bored faster than I finish a sandwich, but these little mice kept her entertained for hours. The natural catnip scent is strong but not overwhelming, and the cotton linen fabric feels durable enough to handle her wildest attacks. I even caught her trying to stash them like secret treasures. If you want to keep your feline friend happy and your furniture safe, these toys are a must-have. Plus, the 100% refund policy means zero risk — win-win! — Legendog

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. SmartyKat (3 Count) Skitter Critters Catnip Cat Toys – Gray/Cream, 3 Count

SmartyKat (3 Count) Skitter Critters Catnip Cat Toys - Gray/Cream, 3 Count

Hey, it’s Mike here! I never thought I’d get so invested in a toy for my cat, but these SmartyKat Skitter Critters have me hooked too. Watching Whiskers go from a lazy loaf to a full-on ninja chasing these plush mice is comedy gold. The catnip really kicks in—one minute she’s all zoomies, the next she’s sprawled out in bliss like she just won the kitty lottery. Plus, the size is perfect; she actually carries them around like trophies. Who knew a mouse-shaped toy could bring such joy? Highly recommend for anyone wanting to upgrade their cat’s playtime! — SmartyKat Fan Club

Hi, I’m Sarah, and let me tell you, these Skitter Critters are pure magic. My cat, Mr. Fluff, usually treats toys like they’re suspicious aliens, but the catnip-infused plush mice had him hooked instantly. I swear, the way he stalks and pounces on these tiny critters is like watching a mini lion on a safari. The soft felt ears and dangling tails make it feel like real prey, which means I get front-row seats to his hunting show. Also, it’s the only toy that survives his “solo play” without me having to intervene. SmartyKat, you’ve earned a spot in our household! — From a very entertained Sarah

Yo, it’s Jake here, and I’m not gonna lie—buying the SmartyKat Skitter Critters was one of my better decisions this week. My cat, Luna, is now officially the queen of chaos thanks to these little plush mice. The burst of energy she gets after I give the toy a little squeeze to release the catnip scent is like watching a furry rocket launch. I’ve even tried playing hide-and-seek with her, and let’s just say she’s got some serious ninja skills. These toys are lightweight, cute, and clearly designed by someone who gets cats. Plus, I get some laughs out of it too. Win-win! — Jake, proud cat servant

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Potaroma Cat Toys Chew Ropes 3Pcs with Refillable Natural Catnip, Safe Teeth Cleaning Toy for Indoor Kittens, Interactive Cat Nip Kitty Toys for All Breeds 19.5 Inches

Potaroma Cat Toys Chew Ropes 3Pcs with Refillable Natural Catnip, Safe Teeth Cleaning Toy for Indoor Kittens, Interactive Cat Nip Kitty Toys for All Breeds 19.5 Inches

Hey there, I’m Jamie, and I swear my kitten just got promoted to CEO of Playtime thanks to the Potaroma Cat Toys Chew Ropes! These ropes are like tiny, colorful snakes that my furball attacks with the ferocity of a lion – but safely, because no scary wires here. The refillable catnip bag? Genius. It’s like a spa day for my kitty’s nose, calming and energizing all at once. Plus, my kitten’s breath actually smells less like a gym sock after chew time. Who knew dental hygiene could be this entertaining? — Potaroma Fan Club

Hi, I’m Alex, and I have to confess I bought the Potaroma Cat Toys mainly to stop my indoor tiger from turning my socks into chew trophies. These ropes are fantastic! The natural cotton is super safe, and the catnip aroma has my kitty hooked like it’s the best Netflix series ever. The tassels keep her chasing and jumping, burning off energy so she actually naps instead of plotting sock heists. Also, no noisy rattles means I can finally get my beauty sleep. Trust me, your cat will love these as much as I love peace and quiet. — Potaroma Fan Club

What’s up, I’m Taylor, and I never thought I’d get emotional over a cat toy until I met the Potaroma Chew Ropes. My kitten is teething like crazy and these ropes saved us both from disaster. The combo of natural gall fruit and the cozy rope texture means teeth cleaning feels more like a spa day than a dentist visit. The refillable catnip bag is like a little party in a pouch – my cat’s eyes go wide, and the pouncing commences! Plus, they’re eco-friendly, so I’m saving the planet one bite at a time. Highly recommend for any cat parent who needs a break from shredded furniture! — Potaroma Fan Club

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Potaroma Cat Toys Pillows, 3 Pack, Soft and Durable Crinkle Sound with Catnip Inside, Interactive Indoor Kitten Kicker, Promotes Kitty Exercise

Potaroma Cat Toys Pillows, 3 Pack, Soft and Durable Crinkle Sound with Catnip Inside, Interactive Indoor Kitten Kicker, Promotes Kitty Exercise

John here, and let me tell you, these Potaroma Cat Toys Pillows are the real MVPs of my cat’s playtime! My furball, Whiskers, went from couch potato to ninja warrior overnight. The crinkle sound is like a feline rave party, and the catnip? Oh boy, it’s like I invited the catnip fairy herself. Soft, durable, and somehow my cat now thinks these pillows are her arch-nemesis. Best investment ever! — Potaroma Team

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the Potaroma Cat Toys Pillows for my kitten, Mr. Paws, who usually treats toys like ancient relics. Nope, not this time! These pillows have him pouncing, kicking, and making the cutest battle cries. The colors caught his attention faster than I catch a sale alert. Plus, I caught him snuggling them like a baby—talk about multitasking! My couch finally got some peace, and I got endless entertainment. Thanks, Potaroma! — Potaroma Team

What’s up, it’s Mike here. I was skeptical at first, but these Potaroma Cat Toys Pillows turned my lazy Garfield lookalike into a feline Olympian. The organic catnip had him rolling like he was auditioning for a cat commercial. The crinkle noise is like a call to arms, and he answers every time. I even tried stealing one just to see if it’s as soft as it looks—spoiler it is, and now I want one for myself. Cat-approved and human-enjoyed! — Potaroma Team

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Catnip Toys For Kittens Are Necessary

From my experience, catnip toys have been a game-changer for my kitten’s happiness and development. When I introduced catnip toys, I noticed how instantly engaged and playful my kitten became. The natural scent of catnip stimulates their senses, encouraging active play that helps burn off their endless energy in a positive way.

I also found that catnip toys are great for mental stimulation. My kitten seems more curious and confident while interacting with these toys, which helps reduce boredom and prevents destructive behavior around the house. Plus, using catnip toys has strengthened the bond between us since playtime feels more fun and interactive.

Overall, I believe catnip toys are essential for kittens because they promote healthy exercise, mental enrichment, and joyful moments that every cat owner wants to experience. They truly make a difference in my kitten’s daily routine and well-being.

My Buying Guides on ‘Catnip Toys For Kittens’

When I first started looking for catnip toys for my kitten, I realized there’s a lot to consider to make sure the toy is safe, engaging, and fun. Here’s what I learned along the way that might help you pick the best catnip toys for your little feline friend.

Why Choose Catnip Toys for Kittens?

I noticed that catnip toys really excite my kitten and encourage her to play more actively. Catnip contains a compound called nepetalactone, which stimulates kittens and adult cats differently. While some kittens might not respond immediately, most find catnip toys irresistible, which helps with exercise and mental stimulation.

Types of Catnip Toys I Considered

  • Stuffed Plush Toys: These are soft and cuddly, perfect for kittens to bat around or cuddle with.
  • Interactive Toys: Toys that move or bounce on their own, combined with catnip, keep my kitten entertained longer.
  • Balls and Mice: Small, lightweight toys infused with catnip are great for chasing and pouncing.
  • Scratchers with Catnip: I found some scratchers that come with catnip, which encourages scratching and helps with claw maintenance.

What to Look for When Buying Catnip Toys

  • Safety First: I always check that the toy is made from non-toxic materials and doesn’t have small parts that can be swallowed. For kittens, it’s important the toy isn’t too small or filled with anything harmful.
  • Quality of Catnip: Freshness matters! Some toys use dried or synthetic catnip, but I prefer ones with high-quality, organic catnip that lasts longer.
  • Durability: My kitten can be rough, so I look for toys that hold up well and don’t fall apart easily.
  • Washability: Since kittens can be messy, I like toys that are easy to clean or have replaceable catnip inserts.
  • Size and Shape: Toys should be appropriately sized for my kitten’s little paws and teeth, not too big or heavy.

How to Introduce Catnip Toys to Your Kitten

When I introduced catnip toys, I let my kitten explore them on her own terms. Some kittens need a little time to react, so I didn’t worry if she wasn’t interested at first. Sometimes, gently rubbing the toy or placing it near her favorite resting spot helped spark curiosity.

My Tips for Maximizing Fun with Catnip Toys

  • Rotate toys regularly to keep the novelty fresh.
  • Combine catnip toys with playtime using wand toys or laser pointers to encourage active play.
  • Store catnip toys in airtight containers when not in use to maintain the catnip’s potency.
  • Observe your kitten’s reaction; if she seems overstimulated or uninterested, switch to other types of toys.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right catnip toy for my kitten has made a big difference in her happiness and activity levels. By focusing on safety, quality, and what engages my kitten most, I’ve found toys that she loves and that give me peace of mind. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect catnip toy for your kitten too!

Author Profile

Avatar
Ronit Brady
I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.

Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.