Catster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

10 Best Christmas Gift Ideas for Cats in 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks

Written by: Chris Dinesen Rogers

Last Updated on February 14, 2024 by Catster Editorial Team

cat sitting near christmas tree

10 Best Christmas Gift Ideas for Cats in 2024 – Reviews & Top Picks

VET APPROVED

Dr. Lorna Whittemore Photo

REVIEWED & FACT-CHECKED BY

Dr. Lorna Whittemore

Vet, MRCVS

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

Learn more »

cat sitting near christmas tree

People love their pets. According to Business Wire,1 the global market for pet supplies is projected to reach $41.1 billion by 2025. We can’t help ourselves when it comes to spoiling our furry family members. After all, Americans spent an average of $113 annually1 on cat treats and toys this year.

You’re also probably overwhelmed by the many choices you have for gifts for your cat. Our guide will show you what’s available for treating your pet to the best. We’ve also included reviews of some of our favorite products to make it a very merry Christmas for you and your kitty.

cat + line divider

A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2024

Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
SmartyKat Concealed Motion Cat Toy SmartyKat Concealed Motion Cat Toy
  • Exercise time
  • Appealing to cats of all ages
  • Locking battery chamber
  • Best Value
    Second place
    Ethical Pet Sponge Soccer Ball Cat Toy Ethical Pet Sponge Soccer Ball Cat Toy
  • Interactive play
  • Affordably priced
  • Lightweight
  • Premium Choice
    Third place
    Midwest Feline Nuvo Cat Scratching Post Midwest Feline Nuvo Cat Scratching Post
  • Well-made
  • Attractive design
  • Neutral color
  • Petstages Tower of Tracks Cat Toy Petstages Tower of Tracks Cat Toy
  • Affordably priced
  • Interactive component
  • Well-designed
  • Yeowww! Catnip Yellow Banana Cat Toy Yeowww! Catnip Yellow Banana Cat Toy
  • USA-made
  • Chock full of catnip
  • Durable material
  • The 10 Best Christmas Gifts for Cats

    1. SmartyKat Hot Pursuit Concealed Motion Cat Toy – Best Overall

    SmartyKat Hot Pursuit Concealed Motion Cat Toy

    Type: Interactive
    Life Stage: Adult
    Special Features: Lighted, electronic
    Usage: 3 AA batteries

    The SmartyKat Hot Pursuit Concealed Motion Cat Toy is a fun way for your kitty to exercise. Even less playful pets will play with it, making it one of the best overall Christmas gifts for cats. A furry mouse toy pops in and out of the nylon cover, lighting up and making a show of it. A button on the top activates it in either slow or fast mode. The base isn’t loud and only makes a low humming noise.

    The manufacturer categorizes it as an adult toy, but we think it’ll catch a kitten’s eye with no problem. The toy doesn’t have an auto turn-off feature. You’ll have to do it yourself when your cat walks away from it. Pets not declawed may catch the nylon cover and tip it. However, it looks like it could handle some serious playtime. Unfortunately, the company doesn’t make replacements.

    Pros
    • Exercise time
    • Appealing to cats of all ages
    • Locking battery chamber
    • Two speeds
    Cons
    • No auto turn-off feature
    • No replacements

    2. Ethical Pet Sponge Soccer Ball Cat Toy – Best Value

    Ethical Pet Sponge Soccer Ball Cat Toy

    Type: Ball
    Life Stage: All
    Special Features: Exercise
    Usage: Durable, lightweight

    The Ethical Pet Sponge Soccer Ball Cat Toy is an affordable product that will give you a lot of bang for your buck. The four in the package make it an even better value because one or two will inevitably end up under a piece of furniture. It will stimulate your pet’s hunting and chasing instincts to encourage them to exercise. Therefore, it’s our pick for the best Christmas gift for cats for the money.

    The balls are brightly colored to help you find them easier. They are also lightweight, which is a godsend if young children want to interact with their cats. There are no worries about breaking anything if a child gets carried away. Cats can entertain themselves with this toy, but you can also make it interactive and make a game out of it.

    Pros
    • Interactive play
    • Affordably priced
    • Lightweight
    Cons
    • Easily lost

    3. Midwest Feline Nuvo Cat Scratching Post– Premium Choice

    Midwest Feline Nuvo Grand Forte 41 inch Cat Scratching Post

    Type: Scratcher
    Life Stage: Adult
    Special Features: n/a
    Usage: Sturdy

    The Midwest Feline Nuvo Grand Forte stands apart from other scratching posts since it’s well-made and built to last. It’s also well-weighted to keep it stable. The post stands 41 inches high, which is tall enough to allow your pet to get a good stretch. It is ideal for larger cat breeds. It’s made of wood and covered with sisal, and the material makes it more appealing to felines because it shreds easily.

    The cat perch is pricey, yet it’s still an excellent value for the money. If it can prevent your kitty from scratching your carpeting or furniture, it’s worth the investment. A little catnip sprinkled on the post will encourage your pet to check it out to make using it a habit.

    Pros
    • Well-made
    • Attractive design
    • Neutral color
    Cons
    • Spendy

    4. Petstages Tower of Tracks Cat Toy

    Petstages Tower of Tracks Cat Toy

    Type: Interactive
    Life Stage: Adult
    Special Features: Exercise
    Usage: Durable

    The Petstages Tower of Tracks 3 layer circle toy is an excellent choice for keeping your pet entertained for hours. It plays on your pet’s hunting instinct to find their prey. The ball inside of it spins, completing the effect. We think the sound of it going around the tube may also excite your cat. Even the choice of colors is brilliant. Most scientists theorize that felines can see only grays, yellows, and blues.

    You may need to show your kitty how to use it the first time. Once the penny drops, your cat will take it from there. The tower is well-designed, making it nearly impossible for your pet to pop the ball out. However, it’s one of those toys you must occasionally rotate if your cat gets bored with it.

    Pros
    • Affordably priced
    • Interactive component
    • Well-designed
    Cons
    • Boredom after a while

    5. Yeowww! Catnip Yellow Banana Cat Toy

    Yeowww! Catnip Yellow Banana Cat Toy

    Type: Plush
    Life Stage: Adult
    Special Features: Catnip
    Usage: Durable to a point

    The Yeowww! Catnip Yellow Banana Cat Toy is the perfect Christmas gift for the pet that has everything. It’s brightly colored, making it easy to spot. It is loaded with catnip to catch your cat’s attention. It’s a decent size, making it an excellent choice for larger felines. The chances are that all you need to do is put it in front of your cat. However, you can also use it interactively.

    The design is adorable, making it an even better purchase. It’s made of cotton that will take a lot of abuse. However, we recommend checking it occasionally for rips and tears. We liked that the toy and the catnip are from the United States. The manufacturer goes the extra mile to ensure that it’s a quality product.

    Pros
    • USA-made
    • Chock full of catnip
    • Durable material
    Cons
    • Not refillable

    6. K&H Pet Products EZ Mount Cat Window Perch

    K&H Pet Products EZ Mount Cat Window Perch

    Type: Bed
    Life Stage: Adult
    Special Features: Removable, machine-washable bed
    Usage: Well-made

    The K&H Pet Products EZ Mount Cat Window Perch takes the idea of a bed to the next level! Suction cups hold the base to a window measuring at least 24 inches wide. It also requires a 12-inch area in front with room for your kitty to jump inside it. While each suction cup can hold up to 100 pounds, the manufacturer’s recommended weight limit is 50 pounds.

    Cats love being in the sun, and the window perch gives them a view of the outdoor activities to entertain them and provide mental stimulation. It folds up so you can close the curtains at night. The only problem we saw with it was dirty windows from nose prints and pawing at the glass. However, it’s a small price to pay for your pet’s enjoyment.

    Pros
    • Suitable for larger pets
    • Machine-washable
    • Space saver
    Cons
    • Dirty window

    7. Frisco Cactus Cat Scratching Post

    Frisco Cactus Cat Scratching Post

    Type: Scratcher
    Life Stage: Adult
    Special Features: Hanging toys
    Usage: Stable base, moderately durable

    The Frisco Cactus Cat Scratching Post fits the bill if you’re looking for a smaller scratcher or a second one to redirect unwanted behavior. Besides, it’s so darn cute! It comes in two sizes, each with a stable, secure base. The post is covered primarily in sisal, with synthetic fabric and faux fur providing the decoration. The three arms are excellent places to hang toys to increase the fun and usage.

    The materials shred easily, which is a desirable trait for your pet. It’s affordably priced, making replacing it a non-issue if you have an overzealous cat. It’s a snap to assemble, with the tools included with your purchase.

    Pros
    • Adorable design
    • Value-priced
    • Easy to assemble
    Cons
    • Shreds easily

    8. Frisco Refillable Catnip Brown Squirrel Toy

    Frisco Refillable Catnip Brown Squirrel Toy

    Type: Catnip
    Life Stage: Adult
    Special Features: Refillable
    Usage: Durable material

    The Frisco Refillable Catnip Brown Squirrel Toy is another toy that appeals to pet owners. You can’t help but smile when you see it. It’s well-made to handle a lot of playing, and it comes with a vial of catnip. You simply open the heavy-duty Velcro enclosure and fill it as necessary. Squeezing the toy will make the smell of the catnip more pungent.

    The fact that it’s refillable is a solid selling point. Too often, cats lose interest in these toys because they lose their scent. The only problem we saw was catnip interfering with the Velcro closure, allowing some to leak out.

    Pros
    • Refillable
    • Durable material
    • Cute design
    • Extra catnip
    Cons
    • Loose closure

    9. Frisco Modern Elevated Wrought Iron Cat Bed

    Frisco Modern Elevated Wrought Iron Cat Bed

    Type: Bed
    Life Stage: All
    Special Features: Elevated platform
    Usage: Sturdy with easy care

    The Frisco Modern Elevated Wrought Iron Cat Bed offers something that not many similar products do. It’s an attractive piece that will look great in almost any room. It’s also sturdy for pets up to 15 pounds. Its beauty is its simplicity. Some pet products cross the line to kitschy. This one doesn’t. The bed is made of faux fur, which you can machine wash.

    The bed comes in single and dual-tier options, with the latter requiring some assembly. The bed feels comfy and comes in a pleasing neutral color. While we liked the design, we would understand some cats not taking to it without some persuasion, such as catnip.

    Pros
    • Built to last
    • Attractive design
    • Easy to clean
    Cons
    • Not used by some cats

    10. Frisco Sparkle Ball Glitter Teaser Cat Toy

    Frisco Sparkle Ball Glitter Teaser Cat Toy

    Type: Wand
    Life Stage: All
    Special Features: Feathers, exercise
    Usage: Limited durability

    Given how popular they are with pet owners, we’d be remiss if we didn’t include at least one wand. The Frisco Sparkle Ball Glitter Teaser Cat Toy has bells and whistles to attract your kitty’s attention. The feathers and metallic colors will entice your pet to play. It’s strictly an interactive toy that provides ample mental stimulation and bonding time.

    There’s no doubt your cat will like this wand, and even kittens will enjoy it. They’ll get plenty of exercise when you wave it around the room. Your pet will likely wear you out before they run out of steam. The only drawback is one we often see with these toys: a weak string. A tenacious pet or a cat that plays rough will probably break it.

    Pros
    • Exercise time
    • Interactive toy
    • Suitable for all life stages
    Cons
    • Weak string

    cat paw divider

    Buyer’s Guide: Picking the Best Christmas Gift for Your Cat

    Since many consider their pets like children, it’s only fitting we’d concentrate on toys for Christmas. However, your cat is still likely to enjoy some treats or catnip, too. The first thing you’ll notice when looking for a gift is the many types and products available. The humanization of the pet market has been a boon for our animal companions. You have more choices than ever to provide your cat with fun and mental stimulation.

    The latter is a welcome development since felines are intelligent animals. Sitting at home all day can get boring for them. Most cats don’t go on daily walks. That’s where toys come into play. They also provide excellent ways to reinforce your bond with your pet. Things to consider when choosing toys for your cat include:

    • Type
    • Life stage
    • Special features
    • Usage

    Type

    Cats used to get the short end of the stick when it came to the different types of toys. A catnip mouse or ball was all there was from which to choose. As cat ownership increased, so too did the number of choices pet owners have. Some of the most popular kinds of toys include:

    • Plush
    • Tunnels
    • Scratchers
    • Feather toys
    • Flavored toys
    • Teaser wands
    • Interactive toys

    The last two are our favorites. They provide the most mental stimulation for your pet. The wands bring you into the picture, which is beneficial for both of you. You’ll also find products in any color, pattern, or theme. It’s just as much about attracting your attention as it is your kitty. It makes it fun for you if a particular toy can make you smile, too.

    cat plays with a toy
    Image By: Ekaterina Kolomeets, Shutterstock

    Life Stage

    If you’ve ever watched Animal Planet’s Kitten Halftime Show, you know that the little ones are bundles of nonstop energy. Toys designed for kittens reflect this playful behavior. It doesn’t take a lot to get one rolling around with a new toy. It’s sometimes different with an older pet that may need a nudge to look twice at the one you bought.

    You know your cat best. The design and action of a product will likely provide enough details to let you know whether it’s the right choice. The other factor to remember is your pet’s age. A kitten under 3 months old may not respond to catnip until they’re older. Some cats never react to it. Scientists know it’s an inherited trait that has no connection with sex, color, or breed.

    Special Features

    You’ll find products that light up, squeak, or bounce. You’ll see others made of feathers, foam, or faux fur. They may look surprisingly realistic or like a favorite movie or TV character. Some manufacturers use cat behavior to make their toys more interesting to pets.

    Felines like to hide, which crosses species lines to leopards, tigers, and lions. That’s what makes tunnels, bags, and boxes so appealing. You may even find that your adult cat gets in touch with their inner kitten if you give them one of these toys.

    cat in a yellow box
    Image By: obpia30, Pixabay

    Usage

    Usage covers several areas. You must consider the durability of a product if you want to get your money’s worth. Some cats are more destructive than others, which is a vital consideration if your pet chews things. The last thing you want from your cat’s Christmas gift is a trip to the emergency vet clinic to treat a bowel obstruction.

    We recommend occasionally inspecting a product for loose parts or threadbare cords with wands. The same advice applies to toys with feathers or catnip inside them. We discussed feline intelligence earlier. Cats need mental stimulation for a good quality of life. However, that trait comes with a price that many pet owners learn sooner or later.

    They get bored with their toys, even the ones they played with constantly when you first gave them to your cats. We suggest swapping out your kitty’s toys once in a while if you notice this behavior. A few weeks out of sight will make your gift brand new again. Just make sure you have spare batteries on hand if it’s an electronic product.

    cat paw divider

    Conclusion

    The SmartyKat Concealed Motion Cat Toy came out on top of our favorite Christmas gifts for cats. The one you can find with the best value is the Ethical Pet Sponge Soccer Ball Cat Toy. If you want to go for the premium choice, we recommend the Midwest Feline Nuvo Cat Scratching Post. It’ll entertain even an indifferent cat with its hiding mouse.

    The Ethical Pet Sponge Soccer Ball Cat Toy got high marks in our reviews for its affordable price and cat approval. It’s lightweight, which makes it fun for your pet to bat around the room or for children to play a game with their kitty.


    Featured Image Credit: jhenning, Pixabay

    Get Catster in your inbox!

    Stay informed! Get tips and exclusive deals.
    Catster Editors Choice Badge
    Shopping Cart

    Pangolia

    © Pangolia Pte. Ltd. All rights reserved.