Kicker toys allow cats to express their natural bunny-kicking behavior safely. This behavior, where cats grab an object with their front paws and kick with their back legs, is a natural hunting and play instinct. Kicker toys are typically elongated, plush toys that cats can grab and kick, providing exercise, mental stimulation, and an outlet for natural behaviors.
In this comprehensive guide, we've researched and compared the best kicker toys for cats available on Amazon. We've evaluated each product based on size, durability, texture, catnip inclusion, and value. All products reviewed here include direct Amazon purchase links with our affiliate tag.
Quick Answer: Our Top Picks
If you're in a hurry, here are our top recommendations:
- Best Overall: Cat Kicker Toy - Perfect size, durable, catnip included, cats love it
- Best with Catnip: Catnip Kicker Toy - High-quality catnip, refillable, extra appealing
- Best Large: Large Kicker Toy - Spacious, suitable for big cats
- Best Budget: Budget-Friendly Option - Good value, effective
What to Look For in Kicker Toys
When choosing a kicker toy for your cat, consider these important factors:
Size
Kicker toys should be long enough for cats to grab with their front paws and kick with their back legs. Most kicker toys are 10-15 inches long, which accommodates most cats comfortably.
Durability
Kicker toys should be durable enough to withstand enthusiastic kicking, biting, and scratching. Look for reinforced seams and quality materials that won't tear easily.
Texture
Cats prefer different textures for kicking. Some like soft plush, while others prefer crinkle material or different fabrics. Consider your cat's preferences when choosing.
Catnip
Many kicker toys include catnip, which makes them more appealing. Look for toys with quality catnip or refillable options that allow you to refresh the catnip when it loses potency.
Product Comparison Table
| Product | Length | Catnip | Best For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kicker Toy | 10-15" | Included | All-around use | $ |
| Catnip Kicker | 10-15" | Refillable | Long-term use | $$ |
| Large Kicker | 15-20" | Included | Big cats | $$ |
| Budget Option | 10-12" | Some | Value | $ |
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Cat Kicker Toy - Best Overall
Cat kicker toys are elongated, plush toys specifically designed for bunny-kicking behavior. These toys are typically 10-15 inches long, making them perfect for cats to grab with their front paws and kick with their back legs.
Quality kicker toys are made from durable materials with reinforced seams to withstand enthusiastic play. Many include catnip to make them more appealing, and they often have interesting textures or crinkle material for added stimulation.
Kicker toys provide excellent exercise and allow cats to express natural behaviors safely. They're particularly satisfying for cats who enjoy this type of play and help prevent them from using inappropriate objects (like your arm) for kicking.
Key Features: Perfect size, durable construction, catnip included, reinforced seams, natural behavior outlet
2. Catnip Kicker Toy - Best with Catnip
Catnip kicker toys combine the appeal of catnip with the perfect shape for kicking. These toys often have refillable catnip pouches, allowing you to refresh the catnip when it loses potency.
Catnip kicker toys are particularly appealing to cats who respond to catnip. The combination of the kicking shape and catnip creates an irresistible plaything that provides both physical exercise and mental stimulation.
Refillable catnip kicker toys provide better long-term value, as you can refresh the catnip rather than replacing the entire toy. They're ideal for regular use and cats who love catnip.
Key Features: High-quality catnip, refillable design, long-lasting, extra appealing, economical
3. Large Kicker Toy - Best Large
Large kicker toys (15-20 inches) are designed for bigger cats or cats who prefer more substantial toys. These toys provide more surface area for kicking and are easier for larger cats to grab and manipulate.
Large kicker toys are particularly suitable for Maine Coons, Norwegian Forest Cats, or other large breeds. They provide the same benefits as standard kicker toys but with proportions better suited to bigger cats.
These toys are also good for cats who like to cuddle with their kicker toys or who prefer larger objects to interact with. They provide the same exercise and behavioral outlet as smaller options.
Key Features: Larger size, suitable for big cats, more surface area, substantial feel, comfortable
4. Budget-Friendly Kicker Toy - Best Value
There are several affordable kicker toy options that still provide effective exercise and behavioral outlet. These toys offer good value while maintaining quality construction and catnip inclusion.
Budget kicker toys may have simpler designs or fewer features than premium options, but they still provide the core benefits of kicker play. They're a good option for trying out kicker toys or for providing variety.
When choosing a budget option, ensure it's still durable and appropriately sized. Even affordable kicker toys should provide safe, enjoyable play for your cat.
Key Features: Affordable, good value, effective play, quality construction, economical
Final Verdict
Cat kicker toys are our top choice for most cats, offering the perfect combination of size, durability, and appeal. Catnip kicker toys provide extra attraction for catnip-responsive cats, while large kicker toys are essential for bigger cats. Budget options provide good value for trying out kicker toys.
Remember that kicker toys provide an important outlet for natural behaviors. If your cat doesn't immediately take to a kicker toy, try rubbing it with catnip or playing with it interactively to show your cat how to use it. Kicker toys help prevent cats from using inappropriate objects (like your hands or furniture) for kicking behavior.