Easter is fast approaching, and while we may have thought about what chocolate eggs or bunnies we want to buy… have we thought about what to buy our feline friends? We don’t have to leave them out just because they can’t eat chocolate! It is also a great excuse to treat them (not that we need an excuse!). So, let’s have a look at some ideas for things we could buy our feline friends this Easter. 

Table of contents

Catnip

Most cat toys contain catnip. But what is catnip? Catnip is also known as Nepeta cataria, and is a herb that belongs to the mint family. It contains a compound called Nepetalactone, which influences cats, often they can be seen rolling around, purring, rubbing as it causes excitement. This doesn’t mean it affects all cats, though, and some cats will ignore it, but many others will absolutely love it! 

So, are there any Easter toys out there that contain catnip? Yes, there are, a few anyway. The Kong company are well known for their toys, so here are a few of their catnip filled toys that your feline friend can enjoy:.

  • Nibble Carrots This toy is carrot shaped and filled with catnip. It is also made of crinkle material, so when they play with it, it will not only smell great, but it will make a noise they will love too. 
  • Refillables Carrot This is another great carrot shaped toy. Again, it is filled with catnip that can be replaced. It also has a fun feather on it which cats love. 

Other places to find Easter related catnip toys include the website Etsy. People make bespoke handmade Easter toys for cats, that contain catnip. Whilst they look great, as they are handmade be sure to read the reviews to assess their durability, and bear in mind that these will generally NOT have been safety tested. There are some lovely toys here – like this crocheted bunny I found, Crochet Cat Toy – but you’re probably best considering these as inspiration unless you know and trust the maker.

Wands

The use of wands makes for a great interactive toy for cats. They help stimulate their natural hunting instincts and provide them with some entertainment. For those who aren’t familiar with them, wand toys are long sticks with a toy on the end. The owner holds the end of the wand and encourages some playtime by waving it around on the floor for the cat to chase and hunt. 

A top tip when using a wand is to have a play, encourage your cat to play and hunt and let them win at some point. Cats want to win a hunt, so letting them win will keep this game forever entertaining. This also makes for great bonding time with owner and cat. Some wands have feathers on the end, balls that rattle, material that crinkles, there is such a variety out there. I did find a rabbit one which can be found here, Easter Cat Teaser Wand Box Bunny.  Alternatively you can make your own, by using a cane then you can put your own toy on the end. 

What about treats?

Around Easter there is always lots of tasty food around the house. Chocolate and hot cross buns all contain ingredients that are toxic to cats, so please keep them out of sight. If you would like a tasty Easter treat for your cat, then what about a cat friendly Easter egg! Catnip Infused Easter Egg is available at local pet stores. 

DIY toys

If you have your creative head on then you could if you have some time, make your own Easter themed toys. These could be made from yarn or felt and catnip. You could make some Easter bunnies, Easter egg shapes and chicks. Be sure that your creations are stitched up well and that your feline friend cannot easily destroy them, we don’t want them trying to eat any thread. Cats also love cardboard boxes, if you have one lying around why not decorate it with an Easter theme. 

What about an Easter egg hunt?

Yes, that’s right, have you thought about doing an Easter egg hunt with your cat. If you know your cat loves catnip, then this is one for you. This can be done by having some plastic eggs that you can pop open, like these ones Colored Plastic Easter Eggs. Then fill them with cat nip. Place them around the house or room, which ever you prefer and watch your cat go hunting for the catnip!

Interactive toys

Interactive toys are a great way to stimulate cats. They provide physical and mental stimulation. There are various types of interactive toys. Toys that will dispense treats or ones that stimulate hunting with unpredictable movements. There is a wide range of toys available. They would make for a great gift for your cat. This Interactive Cat Toy is a great example of one. Scratch posts and mats are also a great interactive toy. Cats love to keep their nails sharp, so this would also make for a great gift. 

Conclusion

There are so many different toys out there. Some cat’s will play with anything whilst others have preferences. I’m sure whatever you buy or make, your cat will enjoy.

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