Why Does My Cat Ignore Its Toys?

You bought the toys. Your cat played with them for a day, maybe two. Now they sit in a basket while your cat bats at a bottle cap. Sound familiar? You're not doing anything wrong. Here's what's going on.

Cats get bored of the same thing

Cats are hunters, and hunters pay attention to things that are new. A toy that's been lying in the same spot for weeks stops being interesting. That's normal, not a sign your cat doesn't like to play.

A toy that doesn't move is just an object

Prey moves, hides and runs away. A toy sitting still doesn't look like prey. Most cats light up when a toy darts, skitters, or disappears behind a chair, so the toy often needs you to bring it to life.

Easy fixes that work

• Rotate toys. Put most of them away and bring out two or three at a time. Swap them every few days so they feel new again.
• Play together. Toss a ball so it rolls away from your cat, or drag a toy slowly past them and let them stalk it.
• Pick the right time. Many cats are most playful around dawn and dusk, and right before meals.
• Let them win. End a play session with a catch, so your cat finishes satisfied.
• Add a scent. A light spritz of catnip can make an old toy interesting again for cats who respond to it. (Not every cat does. Read what the research says.)

When to ask a vet

If a playful cat suddenly loses interest in everything, including food or you, that's worth a call to your vet. Changes in energy can be a sign something else is going on.

Want to try the scent trick? Our PURR RIZZ Catnip Spray was made for exactly this.