Is your cat chomping on everything around the house? Then a cat toy made specifically for chewing might help. These durable toys offer stimulation and exercise, while also distracting your cat from the off-limit items around your home.
But with many different products, you might be wondering which is the best for your kitty. To help, we researched hundreds of options to find the 8 best cat chew toys available right now. Here’s our list:
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Our Picks for the Best Cat Chew Toys
1. Yeowww! Yellow Fish Catnip Toy
Yeowww’s Yellow Fish is one of the highest rated cat chew toys available. It’s made of durable cotton fabric and stuffed with 100% organic catnip. Better yet, the toy is completely safe to chew, as it’s made with only natural ingredients and vegetable based dyes.
Key Features:
- Cat chew toy made of durable cotton twill fabric
- Filled with 100% organic catnip
- Strong stitching to protect against easy tears
- 7 inches long
Pros:
- Filled only with catnip; no other fillers or synthetic material
- Owners have said this was one of their cat’s favorite toys
- Safe to chew, and made with all-natural fabric dye derived from vegetables
- Handmade in the USA
Cons:
- Not as durable as plastic or rubber based toys
2. Petstages Mint Stick Cat Chew Toy
Looking to improve your cat’s oral health? The Petstages Mint Stick is an affordable, highly-rated cat toy that removes tartar buildup while chewing. It includes a real mint center for a “crinkly” texture that also naturally freshens breath. The best part: this toy was a top choice amongst cat owners, with many noting this was their kitty’s favorite toy by far!
Key Features:
- Cat chew toy in a soft stick shape
- Made with real mint (a member of the catnip family) for naturally fresh breath and stimulation
- Suitable for cats 6 months and older
Pros:
- Weaved netting removes tartar buildup on teeth
- “Crinkly” center for a satisfying crunch
- Affordably priced
Cons:
- Not as durable as rubber options on our list. Consider this if your cat is a particularly strong chewer.
3. KONG Kitty KONG Cat Toy
From the same company as the popular dog toy, the Kitty KONG is our top choice for extra strong chewers. This bouncy ball is made from a tough, squeezable material that’s able to withstand a long chew session. It can also be filled with your cat’s favorite goodies, leading them to toss, play, and wrestle with it for long periods of time.
Key Features:
- Chew toy made from a strong, rubber-like material
- Best option for strong chewers
- Hollow design that’s perfect for adding catnip, dry kibble, or treats
Pros:
- Suitable for cats that like to chew on cords or plastic
- Shape of toy means that it can be batted, rolled, or chewed
- Adding treats inside can lead to long play sessions
Cons:
- Doesn’t include features or sounds that other toys have
- Cats that prefer soft toys may not like this texture
4. Petstages Cat Dental Chew Toy
Petstages Cat Dental Wheel is another highly-rated dental chew toy, complete with grooves and edges that remove tartar on teeth. It’s made from soft, sturdy rubber with tassels on each end for added fun.
Key Features:
- Cat chew wheel with added ribbons for fun
- Spokes on wheel help remove tartar while chewing
- Wheel is 2 inches wide; full length with ribbons is 5.5 inches
Pros:
- Made of 100% non-toxic materials
- Bouncy rubber helps strengthen jaw muscles
Cons:
- Though made of rubber, it’s not fully indestructible. Monitor your cat during a play session.
- Pricier than other chew toys
5. Leaps & Bounds Faux Leather Mouse Cat Toy
Want to tap into your cat’s primal instincts? Take a look at the Leaps & Bounds Mouse, a faux leather toy that’s infused with catnip. In addition to the fun shape, this mouse has a center that rattles when chewed or tossed.
Key Features:
- Cat chew toy in a brown mouse shape
- Made of soft faux leather
- 3 inches long x 1.5 inches wide
Pros:
- Makes a rattling noise for extra stimulation
- Highly-rated, with many owners noting that it’s a huge hit with their cat
- Infused with catnip
Cons:
- Less durable than other options on our list
6. KONG Kickeroo Cat Toy
The KONG Cat Kickeroo is the perfect toy for kitties that like to chew on soft fabrics. It’s a long, furry-tailed toy that cats can hug and wrestle while chewing. For extra stimulation, the Kickeroo rattles and crinkles, and is filled with North American catnip.
Key Features:
- Made of ultra plush, soft polyester fabric
- Makes crinkling and rattling noises when batted around
- 9 inches long x 3 inches wide
Pros:
- Perfect for cats that like to chew of soft materials or fabrics
- Long body that cats can hug while chewing
- Filled with 100% North American catnip
- Available in three different characters: bear, frog, and raccoon
- Long furry tail for chasing
Cons:
- Not as durable as rubber or synthetic chew toys
7. Petstages Mice, Cat Dental Chew Toys
Petstages Chew Mice are the top affordable chew toy, with a pack of two priced below many of our other options. The mice are made with a tough outer netting that’s durable for chewing, and perfect for removing plaque and tartar from teeth.
Key Features:
- Mouse-shaped cat toys filled with catnip
- Made of a polyester fabric
- Netted outer shell acts like floss to promote strong dental health
- Comes in a set of two mice
Pros:
- Fan favorite for tossing and batting in the air
- Suitable for cats of all ages, from kittens to seniors
- Highly reviewed and rated by cat owners
- Affordably priced
Cons:
- Toy doesn’t rattle or crinkle like other options
8. WoLover Natural Matatabi Chew Sticks
WoLover Matatabi Chew Sticks are an all-natural wood alternative to cat toys. These sticks are made of the Matatabi Silvervine, a plant that acts like catnip, providing stimulation for your feline. The exterior bark on each stick also naturally scrapes off plaque and tartar during chewing.
Key Features:
- Natural wood chew sticks made of the Silvervine plant, a cat attractant
- Wood exterior scratches and rubs off tartar, helping dental health
- No artificial flavors, additives, or preservatives
Pros:
- Each stick can be used multiple times by scraping off the outer layer
- 100% replacement or money back guarantee
- Wood is all-natural and unprocessed
Cons:
- While some cats go crazy for Silvervine, some might not like it
- Should only be used 2-3 times per week
Cat Chew Toy Buying Guide
While cats aren’t known for being chewers, it’s common for kitties to nibble on things around the house. In order to keep your cat from feasting on plants, cords, and other tempting items, be sure to have chew toys around to keep them occupied. This guide discusses why your cat chews, how to encourage them to chomp on only approved toys, and which items to avoid around the house.
Why Do Cats Chew?
Cats chew for a variety of reasons — from boredom to curiosity — and while most aren’t cause for concern, some can be a warning sign. Understanding the reasons behind the behavior can help you determine whether the act is an outlet for boredom or a more serious issue. Here are the main reasons why cats take up chewing:
Lack of Stimulation & Boredom
Does your cat have enough stimulation during the day? A lack of activity could be to blame for your cat suddenly taking up chewing. Grooming or playing with them frequently, or integrating puzzle toys, can help keep their mind occupied.
Teething
As kittens start to lose their baby teeth, their gums become irritated, leading them to chew to soothe the discomfort in their mouth. Chewing by kittens can also be exploratory in nature, as they try to figure out what each item in the house is all about.
Feeding & Exploratory Behaviors
Did you know, chewing is a natural part of a cat’s behavior? In the wild, predatory instincts lead them to chew their food, bones and all. However, for a domestic house cat, kibble or canned food often won’t satisfy this urge, leading them to find an outlet in other areas.
Health Issues
The vast majority of chewing is a result of boredom or a cat’s predatory instincts. However, there are times when an underlying health issue may be to blame:
- Anxiety and stress: If your cat suddenly starts chewing, or their habits become compulsive, it could be due to anxiety. If toys don’t fix the problem, check with your veterinarian; some anxiety medications are effective at curbing this compulsive desire to chew.
- Oral health: Periodontal disease (gum disease). Check their teeth and gums for redness or irritation and consult your veterinarian if you see any issues.
- Pica Syndrome is the urge to eat inedible materials. It can stem from cats not getting the appropriate nutrition they require, leading them to eat dangerous things around the house. It’s also a potential side effect of extreme stress and anxiety in cats.
Dangers of Chewing the Wrong Things
While seemingly just annoying, chewing household objects can be dangerous for your cat. Small pieces can become lodged in their digestive tracts, and cords and wires can cause burns and electrocution.
Chewing on houseplants is another popular, yet dangerous habit among cats. Many varieties are toxic to felines, so unless you know for sure that the plant is harmless when ingested, it’s best to deter this behavior. For a detailed list of all toxic, and non-toxic houseplants for cats, check out the ASPCA’s page here.
How to Prevent Excessive Chewing
Thankfully, there are a number of methods to stop your cat from chewing around the house. This video provides a handy overview of those strategies:
Cat Proofing Your Home
Tidying up around the house can be enough to deter chewing. If your cat has their eye on cords, try putting rugs or furniture over them, or use cord covers that form a hard plastic barrier over each wire. Cats also aren’t keen on sticky surfaces, so another easy fix is to wrap cords in double-sided tape!
Sprays
If your cat has a favorite item to chew, try using a (cat-safe) bitter tasting spray to deter them. Dish/body soap, citrus oil, or hot sauce can also be used. When trying any of these methods, it’s important to do so in moderation, and only with sprays that are safe to ingest! Pro tip: cats like the taste of salty things, so avoid deterrents high in salt content.
Chew Toys
These are why you’re here! Chew toys are a great way to distract your cat from other objects in the home. They come in many varieties, from sticks, plush toys, to dental chews.
What to Look for When Buying Cat Chew Toys
Safety
Are there sharp edges or grooves that could hurt your kitty? Carefully inspect the toy to make sure it’s safe to chew on. Also, research the manufacturer to ensure each toy’s safety.
Made for Cats
A cat’s teeth are sharper than a dog’s, so make sure the toy is made specifically for cats. Otherwise you may end up with a shredded mess in a few days!
Quality & Durability
Research the durability of the toy (we’ve done this for you in our list!). All attachments and features should be secure. If a chew toy isn’t quality, its pieces can become dislodged and pose a choking hazard.
Features
Cat chew toys can be made of plush material, plastic, or natural substances. Many toys even have places/pouches to add catnip for extra excitement. If your cat likes certain textures or sounds, like a rattle or crinkle, find a toy that incorporates these.
If you notice your cat’s favorite toy is starting to show signs of wear, it’s important to repair it or only let them play under supervision.
Don’t Let Your Cat Chew on These Items
You should immediately discourage and correct behavior if chewing involves the following items:
Electrical cords and wires: Biting on electrical cords and wires is dangerous, and can lead to shocks or even painful burns in their mouth.
Plants: Not all houseplants are toxic to cats, but it’s best to stop this habit early. If you have catnip or cat grass, put it in an easily accessible spot so that cats can enjoy it at their leisure. To keep cats away from outdoor plants, try chicken wire or fencing around the most tempting bushes.
Fabrics and leathers: Fabrics are some of the most common items for cats to chew on. Unfortunately they often break down into threads or pieces, which can lead to blockages in a cat’s digestive system if swallowed.
Small objects: Small pieces pose a choking hazard to cats, dogs, and children. When possible, keep them off the floors and out of reach. A cat’s curiosity can result in them chewing or accidentally swallowing a small item, which can mean a trip to the vet.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are cat chew toys?
Cat chew toys are items specifically designed for cats to safely chew on. These can include rings, balls, or other plush toys used to deter cats from gnawing on fabrics, cords, plants, or other household objects.
Why does my cat chew?
Cats chew for a number of reasons — curiosity, boredom, anxiety, teething, or sometimes as a result of underlying health issues. Understanding the reason is key to fixing the behavior!
What things are dangerous for my cat to chew?
Cords and wires, plants, fabrics, and other small objects can be dangerous if chewed on or ingested by your cat.
Will chew toys keep my cat’s teeth healthy?
Yes, some can! Certain dental chew toys can promote feline oral care by cleaning teeth and freshening breath.
References
https://www.petmd.com/cat/behavior/destructive-chewing-cats-how-stop-it/
https://rehome.adoptapet.com/answers/cat-rehoming/why-is-my-cat-suddenly-chewing-on-everything/
https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/cat-behavior-problems—chewing-and-sucking/
https://www.petmd.com/cat/behavior/why-do-cats-chew-things/
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