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a black cat on an exercise wheel

Ultimate Cat Exercise Wheels Guide 2026: Make Your Cat Move!

Cats that live indoors don’t get to patrol territory, chase off intruders, or hunt for their meal. All of that exercise just isn’t available to them anymore. The tradeoff is a safer life, but it also means a lot of indoor cats are seriously under-exercised. It shows up as extra weight, restless nights, and sometimes destructive behavior born out of boredom. Cat exercise wheels for indoor cats are the perfect solution!

Yes, like a hamster wheel, just built cat-sized! This is one of the few products that actually gives an indoor cat a real outlet to run. Not every cat takes to one right away.

And there’s a genuine range of wheels out there depending on your cat’s size, your budget, and how much space you’ve got. Below, we’ll walk through why a wheel helps, how to get a skeptical cat on one, and then our 9 favorite wheels.

Cat Exercise Wheels for Indoor Cats

Why an Exercise Wheel Actually Helps Your Cat

Obesity is the most common weight-related health issue vets see in cats, and indoor cats are especially prone to it. Without territory to patrol or prey to chase, a lot of the movement a cat would naturally get in a day simply disappears. A wheel gives that missing movement somewhere to go.

Regular wheel use is commonly linked to a handful of real benefits beyond just weight management:

  • Better muscle tone and joint flexibility, which matters even more for older cats managing arthritis.
  • General cardiovascular health, the same way regular movement helps in any species.
  • Fewer destructive scratching sessions, since a lot of that behavior is really just excess energy looking for somewhere to go.
  • Calmer nights, with fewer of those 2 a.m. “zoomies” that come from a cat who didn’t get to burn energy during the day.
  • Lower general anxiety, since a wheel gives your cat’s stalk-chase-capture instincts a legitimate outlet they don’t otherwise have indoors.

Two things worth knowing before you buy one. If your cat is a senior or has an existing health condition, check with your vet before starting wheel use — vigorous exercise can aggravate certain conditions. And if you have a flat-faced (brachycephalic) breed like a Persian or some Himalayans, a wheel may not be a good fit at all. Their airway structure often makes sustained running genuinely difficult, no matter which wheel you choose.

How to Train Your Cat to Use a Wheel

Almost no cat walks up to a brand-new wheel and hops right on. That’s normal, not a sign you bought the wrong product. Most cats need a little time and the right approach to get comfortable. Here’s a training process that shows up, in some form, across nearly every wheel on this list’s own instructions:

  1. Introduce it unpowered first. Let your cat sniff around and investigate the wheel with zero pressure to actually get on it. A few of our picks below build this exact step into their own instructions — for example, some wheels ship with a locked, stationary setting specifically for this first stage.
  2. Build a positive association before asking for movement. Feed a meal near the wheel, or let your cat sit or lie on it while it’s locked in place. The goal is just making the wheel feel like a normal part of the room, not a big scary new object.
  3. Lure, don’t force. A wand toy, a laser pointer, or a trail of treats just inside the running track is the most consistently effective way to get your cat’s first few steps onto the surface.
  4. Keep early sessions short, and end on a win. Several short sessions beat one long one, especially in the first week or two. Reward any voluntary interaction with the wheel, not just full-on running.
  5. Expect a real range of timelines. Some cats are running within days. Others take weeks of calm, low-pressure exposure before they’ll commit. Both outcomes are completely normal.
  6. Never force your cat onto a moving wheel, and supervise the first several sessions, especially with kittens or with a wheel that doesn’t have a locking or brake mechanism.
  7. Try catnip or silvervine on the running surface as an extra nudge. A lot of owners sprinkle it directly onto the carpet runway before a cat’s very first exposure to speed things along.

If your cat genuinely never takes to a wheel, that’s fine too — not every cat wants to run in circles, and that’s worth knowing before you commit. Our guides to the best cat activity centers and best cat laser toys both cover other ways to get an indoor cat moving that might click better for a cat who never warms up to a wheel.

Our Picks: 9 Cat Exercise Wheels Worth Buying in 2026

We looked at wheels across the full range of the market — from budget-friendly metal frames to premium birch-wood builds — in sizes running from compact (best for kittens and smaller cats) up to extra-large wheels built for bigger breeds.

Every product below is grouped by budget tier, so start with whichever section fits what you’re looking to spend, then narrow down by size and features from there.

Best Overall Cat Exercise Wheel

Star Cat Wheel, 41.7″ L

Star Cat Wheel, Cat Treadmill, Exercise Wheel for Running, Spinning, Scratching, and Climbing for Indoor Cats, Premium Birch Wood, Eco-Friendly, Moving Fish, Wide Running Track, 41.7 inch L Size

If you want the wheel with the fewest tradeoffs, this is it. It carries the strongest cross-review sentiment of anything in this roundup, and its 176 lb weight capacity is by far the highest of any wheel we looked at, so it’s built to handle even a large cat with plenty of capacity to spare.

This is our top premium pick for cat exercise wheels. The quality and standout chase mechanism described below make a real case for choosing it.

  • Rated up to 176 lbs — by far the highest weight capacity of any wheel in this roundup, with room to spare for a large cat or a household running more than one cat through it.
  • Built from E0-certified, low-formaldehyde birch wood using framing-fit (not glued) construction, which the brand markets as more resistant to warping over the long haul.
  • A built-in water-tube-and-floating-fish mechanism baits cats into chasing while they run, and it’s specifically credited with getting reluctant cats to start using the wheel on their own.
  • A ventilated base and dual silent heels are built in for extra noise reduction, on top of a 15.7″ wide running track that gives your cat real room to move.
  • Several reviewers who’d previously owned other cat wheels say this one holds up sturdier and runs quieter by comparison — the strongest quality sentiment of any pick in this lineup.
  • Assembly is the one consistent friction point. Plan on several hours solo, and multiple reviewers recommend watching the brand’s own YouTube assembly video rather than relying on the printed manual, which several described as confusing.

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The Easiest Setup

One Fast Cat Exercise Wheel, Gen. 7, 48″

One Fast Cat - Cat Exercise Wheel - Made in the USA - 48" Diameter - Gen. 7

If assembly dread is what’s kept you from buying a wheel until now, this is the one to look at first. It’s built from lightweight, snap-together ABS parts specifically designed to go together fast, and it’s made in-house in Camarillo, California.

It’s a genuinely solid pick for anyone who wants a large-diameter wheel without committing an entire weekend to putting it together.

  • Gives high-energy cats a dedicated outlet, right in your living room, that helps curb boredom and destructive behavior driven by pent-up energy.
  • The 48″ diameter gives cats up to 25 lbs plenty of room to fully extend while running, not a cramped stride.
  • Snap-together ABS parts mean assembly typically takes under 20 minutes — one of the fastest builds in this entire roundup.
  • Choose between a foam or felt traction liner: felt holds up better against claws, foam is easier to wipe clean.
  • Backed by a 30-day risk-free return window, and the company recycles any returned units instead of just tossing them.
  • Reviewers are split on noise and stability. Most call it quiet and sturdy, but a real minority report squeaking or the wheel drifting to one side during use.

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Best for Large & Wide-Bodied Cats

Nordic Beast 48″ XL Cat Wheel

Nordic Beast 48'' XL Cat Wheel – Safe, Quiet & Stable Exercise Wheel for Large Indoor Cats up to 45 lbs – 15.7'' Extra-Wide Surface Fits 2 Cats Side by Side & Prevents Wobbling, 1-Year Warranty

At 15.7″ wide, this has the widest running track of any wheel on this list — wide enough for two cats to share at once.

It’s a favorite specifically among owners of larger breeds, and several Maine Coon and Savannah owners in particular call it well worth the money for a bigger cat that needed more room than a standard wheel offers.

  • At 15.7″ wide, the running track is wide enough for two cats to share at once, a real plus if more than one cat in your house wants a turn.
  • Rated up to 45 lbs, and several large-breed owners specifically call it worth the money for a bigger cat.
  • Built from 9-layer solid plywood with a waterproof melamine coating, meant to hold up over years of daily use, not just months.
  • A velcro-attached carpet runway is gentle on claws, and a no-gap safety design helps keep paws clear of pinch points.
  • Comes with everything you need to build it: a screwdriver, instructions, an assembly video, and a feather-wand training guide, plus a 1-year warranty.
  • Assembly takes about an hour and the brand recommends using a power drill. Reviewers are split on how straightforward the instructions actually are, and a minority report chipped or cracked pieces on arrival.

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Best for Multi-Cat Households

Homegroove Cat Exercise Wheel, 46″ XL

Homegroove Cat Exercise Wheel for Indoor Cats, 46 Inch

This is the highest weight capacity of any pure wheel-only pick on this list, at 110 lbs, which makes it a smart choice if you’ve got multiple cats who’ll be taking turns on it. It’s also one of the best-reviewed options in this whole roundup, with a large base of owners backing it up.

  • Solid-wood construction rated to 110 lbs — the highest weight capacity of any pure wheel in this lineup, giving multiple cats real headroom to share it over time.
  • Eight TPE rollers are built in specifically for a quieter spin, and the base is widened to wrap around the wheel for extra stability.
  • A narrowed gap between the base and the wheel, plus rounded corners, both reduce the risk of a pinched paw.
  • The built-in locking device lets you control play time, or shut the wheel down entirely when you’re not around to supervise.
  • Ships with a detailed manual, pre-drilled holes, and a removable, washable carpet surface for easy cleanup.
  • Assembly runs long for some owners, with several reviewers reporting multiple hours (one cites roughly 115 screws). It also runs noticeably louder on hardwood floors than on carpet.

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Clearest Assembly Instructions

Naviconvex Cat Wheel, 46″ XL

Naviconvex Cat Wheel, 46" XL Large Exercise Running Wheels with Detachable Carpet for Indoor Cats

Assembly complaints are a running theme across this whole category, which is exactly what makes this pick stand out. Several reviewers specifically praise how clear the instructions and included assembly videos are, a genuine rarity in this space.

  • Rated up to 45 lbs with a 13.2″ wide running track, and a narrow gap between the wheel and base is built in specifically to reduce the risk of a pinched paw.
  • Several reviewers specifically call out the clear instructions and helpful assembly videos, a real standout in a category where confusing manuals are a common complaint.
  • The detachable, washable running-mat carpet makes cleanup simple without disassembling the whole wheel.
  • Pre-drilled holes and included hardware are meant to make the build more approachable, on top of the clear instructions above.
  • Rounded edges throughout are designed to reduce the risk of scrapes during active use.
  • Several reviews measured the “XL” size smaller than its name suggests, closer to 43″ outer / 39″ inner rather than the roughly 46″ implied by the listing. Confirm the actual dimensions fit your cat before buying, not just the model name.

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Best for Kittens & Small Cats

JubiNatural 35.9″ Cat Exercise Wheel with Lock

35.9-Inch Cat Exercise Wheel with Lock for Indoor Cats, Black

This is the most compact wheel on our list, built specifically with kittens and small-to-medium cats in mind. If you’ve been holding off on a wheel because everything else on the market looked oversized for your cat, this is the one to start with.

  • A compact 33.9″ inner running diameter and 13″ track make this the best fit in this lineup for kittens and small-to-medium adult cats.
  • TPE rollers paired with a carpeted runway are built in to keep noise down during use.
  • A sub-6mm paw gap is designed to keep paws safely clear of pinch points while the wheel is spinning.
  • The built-in, fish-shaped lock does triple duty: locking the wheel for introductory training, for cleaning, or for storage when it’s not in use.
  • The brand includes its own step-by-step training method right in the listing, and structurally it’s rated to 50 lbs, though the brand itself is upfront that comfortable fit depends more on your cat’s body length and running posture than on load capacity alone.
  • Plan on roughly two hours for assembly with a second set of hands, and wheel responsiveness draws mixed feedback — some owners say it spins effortlessly, others say it doesn’t turn as easily as they’d hoped.

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Best Space-Saving All-in-One

5-in-1 Cat Wheel (CYlively), 41.3″

5-in-1 Cat Wheel,Cat Exercise Wheel,41.3" High Large Cat Wheels for Indoor Cats,Cat Treadmill Running Wheel for Indoor Cats with Silent Wheel,Cute Furniture Toys

If you want one piece of furniture to cover exercise, rest, play, and feeding instead of buying separate items, this is the pick.

It’s less a pure exercise wheel and more a small cat tree with a wheel built into it, which makes it a genuinely space-efficient option for a smaller home.

  • Combines a running wheel with 3 jumping platforms, a sheltered “cat apartment” nook, and a built-in feeding-bowl area, all in a single footprint.
  • A genuinely useful pick if you want one piece of furniture to cover exercise, rest, play, and feeding instead of separate items, especially in a multi-cat household.
  • Eight TPE silent pulleys on the bottom shaft keep the wheel portion quiet, and sisal carpet lines both sides of the running surface.
  • Smooth, edge-banded, rounded-corner wood construction is rated to 44 lbs and backed by a 3-year warranty.
  • Multiple reviewers say it suits both kittens and adult cats, useful if your household spans different ages.
  • This is the one pick where value-for-money sentiment runs genuinely mixed rather than mostly positive.
  • A minority of reviewers report thin pressed-board panels cracking or hardware loosening within months, and some cats are initially frightened by the noise.

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The Budget Cat Exercise Wheels Pick

GTPLAYER Cat Wheel, 40″ Diameter, Metal

GTPLAYER Cat Wheels, 40" Diameter, Large Cat Exercise Wheel for Indoor Cats cat Treadmill Metal with Detachable Carpet & Teaser/Stickers, Ultra-Quiet Scroll Wheel with Latch, Safe and Stable, Grey

This is our budget-friendly pick, and it’s also the only metal-frame build in the whole roundup — a real alternative if you’re wary of wood warping or plastic cracking over time.

It’s a smart starting point if you’re not sure your cat will take to a wheel and want to test the waters first.

  • A heavy-duty, rust-resistant metal frame is the only non-wood, non-plastic build in this lineup, marketed specifically as an alternative to wheels that warp or crack over time.
  • The wide-stance trapezoid base sits on four full-contact feet for real stability. One reviewer even reported it held their own roughly 160 lb body weight without issue.
  • Several owners specifically like how the black-and-grey finish blends into their home’s decor, rather than looking like obvious cat gear.
  • Comes with a starter kit — teaser wand, grooming gloves, and cat-themed stickers — to help get your cat interested from day one.
  • Backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee and a 2-year free repair policy.
  • Several reviewers mention their cat was initially scared of the wheel and needed real patience and coaxing before using it. That’s not a defect, but a training-time expectation worth setting going in.

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Best Value Wood Wheel

VEVOR Cat Exercise Wheel, 48″ Wooden

VEVOR Cat Exercise Wheel, 48 in Wooden Cat Running Wheel for Indoor Cats up to 28 lbs, Cats Treadmill with Carpeted Runway & Locking Mechanism, Quiet Kitten Sport Toys for Pets Fitness & Health, Black

If you want the look and feel of a premium wood wheel in a budget-friendly pick, this is a strong match. It’s the largest wheel in the budget tier at 48″ outer diameter, and it comes with a complete accessory kit to get you started right out of the box.

  • A 48″ outer / 43″ inner diameter with a 14″ wide track gives most cats real room to run, and a 0.2″ security gap is built in to guard against pinched paws.
  • TPE silent wheels plus noise-reducing holes in the base are both aimed at keeping the ride quiet.
  • Lock the wheel in place and it doubles as a stationary cat bed, useful if your cat likes to nap on it between runs.
  • Comes with a complete accessory kit: gloves, a screwdriver, pre-installed hardware, and a teaser stick for training.
  • Built from 0.5″ high-density engineered wood panels on a wide base designed for stability.
  • Assembly feedback is genuinely split. Some owners find it very easy, while others, including one detailed review, report confusing or reversed instructions for certain parts.

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Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions About Cat Exercise Wheels

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Wrapping it Up on Cat Exercise Wheels

A wheel isn’t a guaranteed fix for every under-exercised indoor cat, but for a lot of cats it’s the single best outlet you can give them for real, sustained running.

Start with the training steps above, pick a wheel sized right for your cat, and give it time — a cautious cat coming around slowly is normal, not a sign the wheel was the wrong choice.

Which cat exercise wheel do you use? Do you have a favorite or a recommendation that I didn’t include in my list ? If you have any other ideas for please leave a comment below or send me an email at Craig@StuffCatsWant.com so I can update this article.

a very fluffy cat on a cat tree

17 Amazing Cat Trees for Large Cats 2026 (Buy Right Meow)

This post was updated in July of 2026 to reflect the latest options!

If your cats are anything like mine then they like to climb. A lot.  It is instinctual for all cats no matter their size. But when you’ve got big ones, like 20 pounders, climbing can be extra dangerous both to your furniture, and to your cat if they happen to slip or miss a jump!

So how do you keep them happy when you want them off things like your bookshelves and your furniture?

People might tell you to get a tree or get a condo. That’s a good idea. But if your cat is extra “fluffy” or extra large then you may have had trouble finding the right fit.

You can’t just go for any old furniture, you’ll want to find yourself a cat tree for large cats. Cat trees go by a bunch of names these days: cat climbers, cat castles, cat furniture, cat towers and so on.

I’ve sifted through countless options, several of which I’ve used myself, to bring you the best 17 big cats can actually use. So let’s get into them.

The Cat Castles

Best Overall

Hey-Bro 3 Level Large Capacity Cat Tower

Hey-brother Cat Tree Tower with Sisal Scratching Posts, Big Condo, MPJ020W

Not going to pretend “Hey-brother” is a name that inspires much confidence, but don’t let it scare you off — this tower earns its “Best Overall” spot with a huge review base and a genuinely solid step-style design that’s easy for cats to climb.

It’s built for large cats specifically, not just labeled that way as an afterthought.

  • Step-style multi-level layout makes it easy even for older or less agile large cats to climb without a big jump
  • Two enclosed plush condos give your cat somewhere private to disappear and nap
  • A padded hammock-style top perch is the prime real estate — expect your cat to claim it fast
  • Posts are wrapped in natural sisal rope, giving your cat somewhere satisfying to scratch that isn’t your couch
  • Comes with anti-tip hardware and CARB-certified particleboard construction, so stability isn’t an afterthought

An additional bit of info I managed to snag on this one from a current owner that I know at the shelter I volunteer at

“Definitely love this thing. I replaced my aging cat tree with it and my cats immediately took to it. It was easy to construct and has been plenty stable for even my big guy (20 lbs).”

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Best for Big Cuddly Cats

The FEANDREA 2 Condo Tower

Feandrea Cat Tree, 33.1-Inch Cat Tower, Plush Condo for Large Cats up to 16 lb, Large Perch, 2 Caves, Scratching Post, Smoky Gray UPCT61G

Honestly, who names these companies? No idea what “Feandrea” means, but this is a genuinely solid pick for big, fluffy cats who want options.

It’s a simple two-level layout, but the two condos mean your cat (or cats) will have their pick of the comfiest spot to log their 18-plus hours of daily napping.

  • Two enclosed cat caves — a roomy upper one with easy access, and a cozier lower hideaway good for older cats or kittens
  • A large top perch (~22″ x 15.7″) comfortably fits one big cat or two smaller ones snuggled up
  • Sisal-wrapped scratching posts built into the multi-level design
  • Comes with an anti-tip kit for extra peace of mind
  • Plush fabric that’s easy to clean with just a lint roller or a vacuum pass
  • Quick to put together with universal screws and clear instructions

Gathered a quote from another friend in the cat world on this one:

“My older girl is starting to have a hard time getting around and this was perfect for her since she’s definitely a bit fluffy. Keeps the risk down given the height is low, but she loves it!”

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Multi Cat High Perch Option

Globlazer Heavy Duty Cat Tree, 70 inch

Globlazer Heavy Duty Cat Tree, 70 inch Sturdy Cat Tree for Indoor Cats Extra Large Cat Tower with Scratching Post, Hammock, Cat Condo for Adult Cats Kittens, F70 Pro, Light Grey

At 70 inches tall, this one gives your cats plenty of vertical territory to fight over — er, share.

It’s a newer entrant, but it’s already performing really well based on everything reviewers are saying, definitely a worth option to consider.

  • An enlarged square hammock is actually sized for an adult cat to stretch out flat, not just perch on the edge
  • A fully enclosed condo gives your cat a private hideaway
  • Four sisal-wrapped scratching posts plus a dedicated scratching board
  • Two separate climbing paths mean less territorial disputing in multi-cat homes
  • A large, removable, washable top perch — genuinely underrated once cat hair builds up
  • Owners consistently describe assembly as easy and the finished tower as notably stable, not wobbly

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Best for Senior Cats

Yaheetech Cat Tree for Indoor Pets

Yaheetech 36in Cat Tree Tower with Large Perch for Senior Kittens

Not every big cat is a young, agile cat. This one’s built with older cats in mind, and it’s compact enough to fit a smaller apartment without eating the whole room.

Perfect if you have two older ladies like my Lexi and Beast at age 14!

  • Low-height condos and a gently sloped ramp make climbing much easier on senior or less mobile cats
  • Three-tier layout that gives plenty of room without towering over your space
  • An anti-tip strap is included standard, not sold as an add-on
  • Two enclosed plush condos plus a foam-edged perch
  • Sisal-wrapped scratching posts and a lower scratching board
  • A dangling toy ball on an elastic band for cats who still want to play

One additional thought I was able to find from another owner:

“We love this for our big guy. We used the anti tip strap and locked it into a stud since he is young and LOVES to jump around. It’s stayed nice and stable even when he jumps off the top!”

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3 Sky High Perches

SHA CERLIN 81 Inch Multi-Level Tall Cat Tree

SHA CERLIN 81in Multi-Level Tall Cat Tree Tower for Indoor Kitties/Larger Cat Condo Furniture with Hammock/Cozy Pussycat Perches/Sisal Scratching Posts/Pet House/Wide Base/Grey

If your cat likes to survey their kingdom from up high, this is your pick — 81 inches of climbing tower with widened top perches and roomier condos.

Almost like your cats are going for your ceiling, or your roof…who knows sometimes? Mine end up on top of the cabinets frequently enough.

  • A wide, heavy-duty base specifically engineered against tipping
  • Rated to support cats up to 33 lbs
  • Widened top perches and larger condos for bigger cats to actually stretch out
  • CARB-certified particleboard construction with sisal-wrapped reinforcement posts
  • Tools and instructions included, setup consistently described as easy
  • Reviewers specifically call out stability as a strength here — a good sign at this height

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The Tallest of the Bunch

Allewie 81 Inches Tall Cat Tree

Allewie 81 Inches Tall Cat Tree/Multi-Level Large Climbing Tree House and Towers for Big Feline/Condo and Hammock/Scratching Post/Wide Base/Grey

An equivalently tall option as the last one at 81 inches, with enough stacked levels that more than one cat can use it without constantly bumping into each other.

A couple of key items worth noting on this model:

  • Reinforced padded base plus an included anti-tip strap
  • Rated to support up to 55 lbs combined — built for multi-cat households
  • Two perching platforms, two enclosed condos, one oversized hammock
  • Plush fabric and sisal surfaces balance comfort with scratching space
  • Assembly generally described as straightforward, and it doesn’t need power tools
  • Honest note: Grey colorway has occasionally shown longer shipping windows (4-5 weeks) — check current stock before committing to that color

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Zero Fuss – Lots of Space

NewCatCondos Tower with 4 Perches

New Cat Condos 190209 Large Cat Tower with 4 Easy to Access Spacious Perches,

If you finish reading the entire article you’ll probably think that New Cat Condos has paid me for plugging them so often, but they just make amazing products that deserve to be all over the list. I really couldn’t find anything better so I’m sharing them with you!

It is almost like they are the Big and Tall of cat furniture! Who knew that existed?  This one’s their tallest standard option at just over 5 feet.

  • Five total levels give your cat plenty of places to spread out
  • Each of the four raised perches is 17″ in diameter — real room, not a token ledge
  • As with every New Cat Condo this option is made from solid wood meaning great durability
  • It also uses plush household grade carpet for extra comfort for your feline friend
  • You’ve a big chunk of high quality sisal rope available for scratching from the ground floor
  • This model requires a bit of assembly because nobody wants a 5 foot tall package in the mail

Quoted directly from other owners of this product:

“The ledges comfortably accommodate my Maine Coon giant cats.”

Check out this short video for more a quick overview of the product as well:

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Wide Base for Extra Stability

Globlazer Extra Large Platform Cat Tree, 65in

Built around one core idea: a wide, stable base that can handle more than one cat moving at once, exactly where cheaper trees tend to fail.  If you’ve got a big fur ball family this could be the perfect fit for you!

  • Enlarged base plate specifically designed for stability with multiple active cats
  • Includes an anti-tip strap standard
  • Three large padded perching platforms at staggered heights
  • A hammock and a separate enclosed condo for different resting styles
  • Six sisal scratching posts plus hanging toys
  • Feedback on padding thickness/durability is a bit more mixed than other picks here — still holds a strong overall rating

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Built for Maine Coons

PrestigeCats Main Coon Cat Tower

About as close to a real tree as you’ll get without bringing something in from your backyard. Purpose-built for Maine Coon size and weight, ships almost fully assembled.

  • It is special designed just for Main Coon cats, both their size and weight
  • This behemoth of a cat tree is 24″ wide by 24″ deep by 65″ tall, that’s 5+ feet tall!
  • The top platform will be nice and stable for even the biggest of cats
  • This ships almost fully constructed, it should take you only 4-5 minutes to set it up
  • There area few different color variations you can choose from (but they do go in and out of stock so check in advance before you order)
  • It is made of solid wood, plush household grade carpet, unoiled sisal rope and sonic tubes
  • It is fully hand crafted in the United States of America

The last thing I’ll call out is that this is by far one of the more pricey cat trees on the market. But it comes with unbeatable quality and is incredibly unique. It is up to you if you’re up to invest in it!

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Top Budget Pick

Feandrea Cat Tree, 55.8-Inch

By far the best value option here for multi-cat households! If you’re looking for a lower cost option then look no further. Large cats need a place to chill and climb no matter what!

  • Batten-strengthened base built for large-cat stability, includes an anti-toppling strap
  • A spacious enclosed condo for private napping
  • There are plush perches and a soft lounging tunnel offers them great view over the house
  • Raised edges of top perch provide protection from rolling off the edge in cat style
  • The model features round corners protect you and feline friends from any sharp edges
  • It has a multi level design ensuring your cats can freely jump around
  • All of the posts are covered with sisal and there’s a unique top scratching pad to ensure your cats will leave your expensive furniture alone
  • It is built with CARB-certified boards and covered with soft plush meaning it looks nice AND it’ll last a long time
  • The specs on this model are 35 3/8”L x 23 5/8”W x 61 3/8”H (90 x 60 x 156cm) meaning it’ll easily accommodate large felines 

Worth flagging: a number of other reviewers report parts loosening or breaking over time — a more pointed concern than most other picks we’ve mentioned here today.

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Climber Focused

PrestigeCats Large Staggered Cat Tower

If you’re looking for simplicity and you’re a little bit lazy (like I am) then you’re gonna love this option from PrestigeCats. They are bringing you a near fully assembled product that’s takes seconds to prepare out of the box. Talk about convenience.

On top of this you’re getting a very simple and straight forward cat condo that will have your cat lazing about the minute the box opens. They might even go exploring in the box after the box after their first nap.

Quoted from one owner I managed to talk to on some cat forums:

“I have a 20 pound cat who can fit on the top comfortably!”

Key features worth noting:

  • This model is made from solid wood meaning it is extra sturdy
  • It also uses plush household grade carpet for extra comfort for your feline friend
  • You’ve got an awesome scratching section built into the support post that has high quality sisal rope
  • It is specially designed for larger felines and households with multiple cats
  • The specs are as follows: 20″w x 20″d x 46″h (tons of room for big cats to laze about!)
  • It is handcrafted in the USA and ready to use right out of the box coming from a company that got its start in an Arizona garage

Worth flagging: Carpet quality/durability reviews run a bit mixed. So if you have a real scratcher or chewer on your hands you might want to consider an alternative.

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No Assembly Required

New Cat Condos Premier Triple Cat Perch

New Cat Condos specializes in making high quality cat furniture that requires zero work from your side.

This is a fully assembled product that’s ready to use out of the box. You can’t ask for much more than that when it comes to online ordering!

This model brings a level of simple luxury you just won’t find elsewhere.

And you’ll have your cat lazing about the minute the box opens. You won’t even need to keep the box for your cat to be entertained.

Some other quotes I tracked down from owners of this product::

“I was concerned about the size of this as my guy is nearly 20 pounds…but it hasn’t seemed to stop him from enjoying it.”

“We have two Maine Coon cats and both are typical large cats. The platforms takes their weight individually and together without any problems and with no stability issues.”

Key features worth noting:

  • Made from solid wood this model is extra sturdy compared to other models
  • It also uses plush household grade carpet for extra comfort for your feline friend
  • You’ve got two great scratching sections built into the support post that each have high quality sisal rope
  • It is specially designed for larger felines and households with multiple cats
  • The specs are as follows: 20″w x 20″d x 33″h (tons of room for big cats to laze about!)
  • It is handcrafted in the USA and ready to use right out of the box, they got their start in an Arizona garage

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High Height & Extra Stability

New Cat Condos Large Cat Playground

Another amazing product from New Cat Condos is their large cat playground.  If you’ve checked out the other items from New Cat Condos you’ll notice some similarities to the Large Cat Playground.

The differences are small, but if your kitties don’t like to stick their head off ledges while they sleep then this model will be a better choice.

It doesn’t have the same dips in the edges of each perch meaning it is perfect for curling into a ball for a nice nap.

  • This option has a total of 5 levels (including the base) for your cat(s) to enjoy
  • Each of the raised levels has a 4 inch lip and is 17 inches in diameter
  • Made from solid wood means it’ll withstand any beating cats can throw at it
  • New Cat Condos uses high grade carpet for an extra comfy feline experience
  • There’s a great scratching area wrapped in high quality sisal rope
  • The specs are as follows: 24″w x 20″d x 64″h
  • This model requires some elbow grease to put together because nobody wants a 5 foot tall package in the mail if they can avoid it

Most honest caveat on the list: several owners describe the carpet wearing down within a few weeks of regular use — still solidly rated overall, worth knowing if carpet longevity matters most to you. Especially since NCC does tend to carry a premium price tag.

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Perfect Window Gazing Height

New Cat Condos Premier Cat Scratch and Lounge

Oooooohhhh baby. A cat lounge. Seems swanky right? I bet they would love to be served food and drink right up on that top level!

This is another New Cat Condos option that shows up at your door ready to use, no assembly required.

Your cats will impatiently wait for it once you hit the order button. You big cats will be extra impatient.

Directly quoted from another owner I tracked down:

“I have 2 indoor cars. One weighs almost 20 pounds – he is a big kitty. A tall condo just wasn’t a good fit. This one was perfect.”

“It could hold two cuddling kitties easily and more than adequately holds our 18 lb bruiser.”

So what’s worth noting before you do hit that order button? Check out these features:

  • This option has a total of 3 levels outside the base for your cat(s) to enjoy
  • The 2 lower levels are designed in half circles to give your kitty a hug like feeling while relaxing
  • It is made from real solid wood, not particle board or pressed wood
  • New Cat Condos uses high grade carpet for an extra comfy feline experience
  • The specs are as follows: 20″w x 20″d x 32″h

Key flag worth highlighting: Some owners note the carpet sheds over time — mild, mixed signal, not a dealbreaker for most. That said, any cat that’s dedicated is going to tear up your carpet and that’s what a cat castle is for realistically.

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Compact and Stable

New Cat Condos Large Feline Play Perch

New Cat Condos is the king when it comes to high quality cat furniture that requires very little assembly.

This product comes to you in the mail and it is ready to use out of the box. You can’t ask for much more than that when it comes to online ordering!

This model is a simple and straight forward three level luxury cat castle. You’ll have your cat lazing about the minute the box opens because you just have to set it where you want it. You won’t even need to keep the box for your cat to be entertained.

Key features worth noting:

  • Two raised levels that give your cat plenty of space to relax and a built in feather toy
  • Each level rated to support over 50 lbs — a real number, not vague marketing
  • No particle board here, it is made from solid wood for added durability
  • It also uses plush household grade carpet for extra comfort for your feline friend
  • Two sisal rope scratching sections right into it for when your fur ball needs to sharpen her nails
  • The specs are as follows: 20″w x 20″d x 32″h (tons of room for big cats to laze about!)
  • It is handcrafted in the USA and ready to use right out of the box

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8 Levels of Fun!

PAWZ Road Large Cat Tree, 72 Inches

he closest thing to a genuine cat palace on this list — 8 levels for multiple large cats to climb and claim territory. There’s arguably too many options with this thing!  Your cats might take days to finally sleep on all the different spots…

There are a bunch of key features worth noting:

  • 8-level structure for multiple large cats to climb and lounge simultaneously
  • A wide horizontal scratching pad on the base, plus 7 sisal-wrapped vertical posts
  • An oversized hammock and extra-spacious condo, sized for larger-breed cats
  • Sturdy, thick base construction for extra stability
  • Illustrated assembly instructions, setup is easy as pie (or cake if you prefer)
  • The quality is unbeatable, all parts are glued directly to the wood so even if your cat scratches or tugs the sisal or the plush fabric off in one spot the rest will stay firmly attached

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Heavy Duty (for Max Weight)

CozyCatFurniture Tower & Huge Condo

CozyCatFurniture has a bunch of products specifically designed for larger than life cats.  If you’re looking for a great piece of cat furniture then you should definitely consider something from CCF.

This particular model is ideal for big kitties that want to climb and chill out. There are tons of positive references from other owners of extra fluffy cats:

“The beds are about 15″ wide and 5 1/2″ deep. My large cat(19 lb.) loves the beds.”

“Sturdy, well made, my fat & large cats fit in it and LOVE it.”

“Our very large cats love it and fit very comfortably in it.”

There are a bunch of key features worth noting:

  • A thick 2″ baseboard specifically designed to resist wobble under multiple large cats
  • Nine oversized (5″ diameter) sisal-wrapped scratching posts
  • Two large hanging hammocks (18″ diameter) plus a spacious enclosed condo with a cushioned pillow
  • A large cushioned top perch so if they do the work they get a place to snooze
  • Built specifically for large-breed cats — Maine Coon, Ragdoll, Bengal-scale

Key flag worth highlighting: Persistently low stock (as few as 2 units) across multiple checks — small-business seller, confirm availability before you hit the buy button so you don’t end up waiting weeks for the thing to show up.

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Additional Information

Common Q&A on Cat Castles

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Wrapping It Up on Cat Trees For Large Cats

Cat castles are an awesome way to kill a lot of birds with just one stone. They bring a ton of things that cats want all in one package:

  • A high place to look down on humans from
  • A comfy spot to sleep in the sun
  • A great item to scratch until their heart’s content
  • Hanging toys to swat at for fun

There’s really no reason you shouldn’t get your cat their own tower. You just need to make sure you choose the right option for your cat.

And when you’ve got a big cat it is even harder to find something that will fit the bill. The good news is there are a bunch of cat trees for large cats that have been specially designed to ensure they are extra stable and extra durable..

StuffCatsWant.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate earn from qualifying purchases.

References: GoPetclubCozyCatFurnitureNew Cat CondosSONGMICS

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Beast and Lexi Portrait

West & Willow Cat Portraits!

​West and Willow  makes amazing digital renditions of your pets from any picture you share! You can get an amazing portrait of your furball(s) and immortalize them on your walls!

Product Name:

West and Willow Cat Portraits

Product Type:

Digital Cat Portraits

Summary:

West and Willow’s incredibly talented artists take your real life photos and turn them into amazing digital versions that are then printed, shipped to you and easily hung on your wall! It doesn’t get any better than this, especially if you want to show off your cat who always hides when your friends come over…

You can use the code PAWFRIENDS15 to get 15% off your entire order too, perfect for those of you who have multiple pets or who are looking for a couple of different renditions.

Rating:

So I’ve owed West and Willow a huge kudos for quite some time now and admittedly with Covid hitting it just took me way too long to get around to writing this. So sorry West and Willow Team!

I ordered my 2 cat portrait about 6 weeks ago and it arrived at my doorstep about 2 weeks after. Now I had sent two completely separate pictures of Lexi and Beastling, both facing away from one another.

Lexi and Beastling mostly tolerate one another, so I had asked to get them looking opposite directions to highlight their relationship.  And look at that photo. The West and Willow team hit the nail right on the head.

Beast and Lexi Portrait

Not only did they capture the likeness of each of these silly cats practically perfectly, I actually rearranged my entire office to hang the frame right above my desk so I can see it constantly while I’m working!

rearranged office with the portrait on the wall

Now this did result in me having to buy a couple of cat shelves to put up on the other side of the office. With my desk the cats used to have an easy way to make it up to the window, but since I shifted it they lost their stepping stone and required a new one!

But really, can you blame me? Having this hanging over my desk on a day to day basis is hard to complain about. Especially when you’re basically stuck in the house 24/7 for weeks on end with the lockdown taking place.

Now let’s get into the nuts and bolts of the photo and the frame:

  • It came packed very well with plenty of space and security to keep it safe
  • With a bit of Windex I took off the dust from the package and it was ready to hang
  • I managed to hang it in under 10 minutes with nothing but a hammer

packaged photo frame

  • It is super lightweight and easy to handle
  • The hanging instructions and the included level, nails and plastic made it a breeze

Hanging nails

I really honestly can’t say enough good things about it. The only thing really left to do is to try and get Lexi and Beast next to it for a photo op. But as I stated, they aren’t exactly huge fans of one another lately so that seems like a bit of a pipe dream!

West and Willow Team, you did a beautiful job and I really can’t thank you enough for enabling me to adorn my wall with such an awesome digital representation of my favorite two kitty cats!

black cat looking locked into something

The 7 Best Laser Toys For Cats 2026 [Buy a Safe One Meow!]

Updated August 2026: every single laser toy originally listed here had gone out of stock or been discontinued, so I rebuilt this whole list from scratch — all 8 picks below are new as of this update, spanning handheld pointers, fully automatic units, and a couple of multi-function toys that build a laser into a bigger play package.

Cats absolutely love to play and one of their favorite ways to play is to hunt.

Laser toys for cats are flat out one of the easiest and most engaging toys available to keep your cat entertained and in shape.

Below we’ll take a look at some of the best options to choose from and discuss the overall safety of laser toys for your cats.

The Best Laser Toys For Cats

Best All-in-One Handheld

Rechargeable Cat Laser Pointer, 7 Adjustable Patterns/Modes

WNZQK Cat Toys Laser Pointer Rechargeable Cat Laser Toy Interactive Cat Toys for Indoor Cats Kittenes Dogs LED Flashlight 7 Adjustable Patterns Red Light Remotes Teaching Tool USB

WNZQK’s rechargeable pointer is the classic hands-on approach to laser play, and it’s built to do a lot more than just point a red dot. Beyond the laser, you get a UV mode for checking stains around the house and a plain white flashlight, so it’s not a single-purpose toy that only comes out during playtime.

It charges over USB through a removable back cover, meaning there’s no fumbling for the right battery size when it eventually runs dry. It’s compact enough to keep in a drawer or a pocket, ready whenever your cat wants a few minutes of chasing the dot around.

  • Slides between 5 projection patterns (dot, mouse, butterfly, smiley, star) plus 3 light modes — red laser, a purple/UV mode for spotting stains, and a plain white flashlight.
  • USB-rechargeable via a removable back cover, so there are no proprietary batteries to track down when it dies.
  • Compact aluminum-alloy build, about 4.5 inches long, easy to keep in a pocket or drawer for quick play sessions.
  • Class I laser rated for a marketed range of about 300 feet, plenty for even a large living room.
  • Reviewers describe the build quality as solid and appreciate not having to deal with batteries at all.
  • Reliability is a genuine split in the reviews — plenty of owners say it works great, but others report a unit that simply stopped working entirely.

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Best Backup-Ready Pair

Cat Laser Toy with Metal Case, 2 Pieces, 7 Adjustable Patterns

TBTeek Cat Toys, with Metal Case, 2 Pieces, Rechargeable, 7 Adjustable Patterns, Interactive Kitten Pet Dog Chase Toy for Cats Fun Playing Exercise

If one laser pointer isn’t enough insurance against a dead battery at the worst possible moment, TBTeek’s two-pack solves that outright. Both pointers ship together in a reusable metal tin, so one can sit charging while the other is already out doing its job.

Between the two, you get 7 total modes to play with — five laser patterns, a flashlight, and a UV mode for checking stains — split across a stainless-steel shell built to survive life in a junk drawer. It’s an easy pick if you’ve got multiple cats, a multi-person household, or you just don’t want playtime to grind to a halt because you forgot to charge it.

  • Ships as two complete pointers in a reusable metal tin, so you’ve always got a charged spare on hand while the other one’s plugged in.
  • 5 selectable red-dot patterns (dot, mouse, star, butterfly, smiley) via a sliding gear switch, plus a white flashlight and a purple/UV mode — 7 modes total across the pair.
  • Stainless-steel shell with a pocket clip and anti-lost cord, built to survive being tossed in a bag or a junk drawer.
  • Built-in retractable USB plug — twist the tail to expose the pins and charge directly from any USB port, no separate cable to lose.
  • Reviewers consistently describe both cats and dogs getting genuinely excited about it, and call the always-have-a-spare setup a real convenience.
  • Durability draws mixed feedback — some owners report years of reliable use, while others say a unit stopped working or a metal case arrived dented within the return window.

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Most Genuinely Random Path

4th Generation Random Trajectory, Motion-Activated Laser Toy

YVE LIFE Cat Toys Laser for Indoor Cats,The 4th Generation Real Random Trajectory Motion Activated Rechargeable Automatic Cat Laser Toy,Interactive Cat Toys for Bored Indoor Cats/Kittens

The YVE LIFE laser toy is built entirely around solving the biggest complaint people have with automatic laser toys: predictability. Its dual-motor design genuinely randomizes the path instead of looping through the same handful of movements, so your cat can’t just learn the pattern and tune it out.

A built-in motion sensor means it only kicks on when your cat actually wanders over, rather than running through a timer regardless of whether anyone’s playing, and it powers back down on its own afterward. With 3 speed settings and both manual and automatic adjustment on the laser head, it’s flexible enough to fit a range of play styles without you having to hover over it.

  • Dual-motor mechanism drives a genuinely random laser path rather than looping through the same preset pattern.
  • A built-in motion sensor automatically starts a 15-minute play session when it detects your cat nearby, then rests for about 2 hours before re-arming — or you can override it manually any time with the button.
  • 3 selectable speed modes (fast, slow, mixed) let you tune the pace to match how your particular cat likes to hunt.
  • Laser head adjusts about 50 degrees vertically by hand and automatically sweeps roughly 60 degrees horizontally on its own.
  • Rechargeable 1200mAh battery is rated for up to about 2 days of typical use per charge, and it can keep running while it’s plugged in.
  • Battery life and motion-sensor reliability draw mixed feedback over time — some owners get a very long stretch out of a single charge, while others report needing to recharge frequently or notice the sensor getting less responsive after about a month.

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Most Efficient Automatic

Potaroma Smart Sensor Cat Laser Toy,

Potaroma Smart Sensor Cat Laser Toys Interactive, Motion Activated Truly Random Trjajectory, Clamp Design, Automatic Chargeable Kitten Toy Indoor Exercise, Cream White

Potaroma takes a genuinely different approach with this one: instead of a laser head that physically spins or tilts to move the dot, it uses a mirror to reflect the beam into a truly random path — the listing describes this as roughly 80% more power-efficient than a typical motor-driven laser toy, since the laser itself never has to move. The dual-clamp mount is built specifically to resist getting knocked over, a common complaint with tower-style laser toys that just sit on the floor.

Motion sensing means it only fires up when your cat actually shows interest, running a short burst before shutting back down on its own, which makes it a solid pick for anyone who wants to leave it out during the workday. Both the tilt and the rotating base give you real control over exactly where the dot lands.

  • A mirror-based reflection mechanism (rather than a moving laser head) produces a genuinely random dot path while the listing claims roughly 80% better power efficiency than a typical motor-driven design.
  • Dual-clamp mounting lets you secure it to a chair, door, or shelf, specifically designed to resist getting knocked over during play.
  • Motion sensing mode automatically starts a 5-minute play burst whenever it detects your cat nearby, then powers back down — or switch to timer mode if you’d rather set a schedule.
  • Laser head tilts about 45 degrees by hand and sits on a 360-degree rotating base, so you can aim it at whatever surface makes sense in the room.
  • Rechargeable battery is rated for 5 to 10 days of regular playtime per charge, and the unit can run while it’s plugged in.
  • Laser speed and pattern satisfaction is the biggest split in the reviews — some owners find the random path ideal, while others say it moves too fast for their cat to meaningfully chase, or that the pattern doesn’t suit every cat.

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Best 2-in-1 Tabletop

ORSDA Cat Laser Toy, 2-in-1 Interactive Automatic Motion-Activated

ORSDA Cat Laser Toy, 2-in-1 Interactive Automatic Motion Activated Moving 8 Holes Whack A Mole Feather, USB Rechargeable Electronic Smart Sensor Kitten Toys for Indoor Exercise

The ORSDA is a tabletop 2-in-1 unit that gives your cat two completely different games in one box: an automatic random-trajectory laser, and a whack-a-mole-style feather chase that pops up out of 8 spring-loaded holes. Rather than running both at once, the toy alternates between the two modes, so a session doesn’t turn into the same repetitive laser loop every time you flip it on.

It’s voice- and touch-activated on top of its own automatic cycle, and it also reacts to your cat’s motion or sound, so it isn’t purely running on a blind timer. Set it on a table, shelf, or the floor and it does the rest — no wall or window mount required.

  • Combines two distinct play modes in one tabletop unit: an automatic 360-degree random-trajectory laser with both a dot and star pattern, and 8 spring-loaded holes that pop feathers up in random order for a whack-a-mole-style chase.
  • The two modes alternate rather than running at once, so your cat gets variety across a single session instead of the same trick on repeat.
  • Voice- and touch-activated, with an automatic cycle roughly every 3 hours plus reactive triggering when it detects your cat’s motion or sound nearby.
  • Built-in night mode automatically shuts the unit off, and Type-C fast charging gets it back to full in about 2 hours.
  • Reviewers consistently describe it as genuinely effective at keeping cats occupied for extended periods, and battery life gets high marks for lasting multiple days on a charge.
  • Laser performance and overall durability both draw mixed feedback — some reviewers are enthusiastic about the laser, others find it underwhelming, and while many units hold up well long-term, some report a unit breaking after comparatively light use.

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Most Play Modes

MOHAYA Cat Toy, 4-in-1 Interactive with Laser

MOHAYA Cat Toys,4-in-1 Interactive Cat Toy for Indoor Cats with Laser, Fluttering Butterfly, Moving Feather and Track Balls - USB Rechargeable Self-Play Kitten Toy (White)

MOHAYA takes a broader approach than a single-function laser toy — this is a four-in-one unit built around a rotating mast, with the laser as just one of the play styles on offer. Alongside the laser, you get a fluttering butterfly-wand attachment noticeably bigger than most comparable toys, a peekaboo feather that pops randomly out of one of six holes around the base, and an LED-lit ball-track channel running along the bottom.

Reviewers specifically call out the laser feature as a household favorite among the toy’s four built-in modes. It’s a solid pick if your cat tends to get bored of any single toy fast and you’d rather rotate through a few play styles without buying four separate products.

  • A rotating mast houses four distinct play features in one unit: a built-in laser, a fluttering butterfly-wand attachment (roughly double the size of comparable toys, with its own bell), a peekaboo feather that pops randomly from 1 of 6 holes around the base, and an LED-lit ball-track channel.
  • The laser feature specifically gets called out by reviewers as a household favorite, even with three other play modes built into the same unit.
  • USB-C rechargeable, back to full in about 2 hours, and it ships with spare feather and mast attachments so you’re not stuck the moment one wears out.
  • Four separate play styles in one footprint means it’s a reasonable pick if your cat gets bored of any single toy quickly.
  • Battery life gets some strong reports of multiple days per charge, and the overall entertainment value draws consistent praise from reviewers.
  • Runs on a timed cycle rather than reacting to your cat’s actual movement. Reliability feedback is also mixed — some owners get many days per charge and months of use, while others report the laser or feather mechanisms failing within a month or two, or the battery draining in as little as 20 minutes.

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Quietest Automatic

Saolife Laser Cat Toy, Truly Random Trajectory

Saolife Laser Cat Toys for Indoor Cats, Truly Random Trjajectory, Suction Cup Design, Run Quiet, Interactive Cat Toy Automatic

Saolife built this one specifically to fix the thing longtime laser-toy owners tend to complain about most: predictable, looping patterns. The motor drives a genuinely random path through a flat-partition optical design meant to keep the dot crisp instead of smearing or dispersing as it moves, and reviewers who’ve cycled through other automatic laser toys before this one consistently call the randomness a real step up.

It mounts either with a suction cup to a window or just sits on a table or shelf, and it runs quietly enough that it won’t spook a more skittish cat the way some louder motorized toys can. Between the adjustable head bracket and rotating base, you’ve got real say over where the beam actually lands.

  • Built-in motor drives a genuinely random laser path using a flat-partition optical design meant to keep the dot sharp instead of dispersing or deforming as it moves.
  • Mounts via suction cup to a window, or simply sets on a table or shelf if you’d rather not stick it to glass.
  • Multi-angle adjustable head bracket plus a rotating base gives you real control over exactly where the beam lands.
  • Runs quiet enough that it doesn’t spook skittish cats, and reviewers specifically like that the suction mount keeps it from getting knocked off a table mid-session.
  • Smart standby automatically sleeps after 10 minutes of runtime and restarts on its own every 2 hours, so it’s not draining the battery sitting idle.
  • Battery life and runtime satisfaction draw mixed feedback — some reviewers get several days of multiple sessions out of one charge, while others say it needs charging daily or wish the 10-minute active window ran longer.

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Best for Multi-Cat Households

Automatic Motion-Activated, 5 Fun Patterns, 4 Speed Modes

TBTeek Cat Toy, Automatic Motion-Activated, 5 Fun Patterns, 4 Speed Modes

TBTeek’s automatic laser toy is a straightforward stationary unit built around a motion sensor, so it only fires up when your cat actually wanders into range rather than running blind on a fixed schedule. It cycles through 5 projection patterns and 4 speed settings, giving you more variety to work with than a lot of single-mode automatic toys, and the recommended 8-to-35-inch mounting range means it can work from a shelf, a low table, or the floor.

It’s worth knowing upfront that this is a single-beam laser, not a dual-beam design — but that hasn’t stopped it from working in multi-cat homes; one reviewer specifically describes using it successfully with three cats at the same time. If you’ve got more than one cat and don’t want to buy multiple units, it’s at least worth trying before assuming you need a dedicated multi-beam toy.

  • Automatic unit that projects a rotating red dot through 5 selectable patterns — dot, smile, mouse, star, and butterfly — so you’re not stuck with just a plain circle.
  • Built-in motion sensor runs a 10-minute play session, then rests through a 2-hour sleep cycle before re-triggering on detected movement, with a manual override button if you want to restart it right away.
  • 4 speed modes (slow, medium, quick, mixed), each indicated by a different light color so you can tell at a glance which one it’s running.
  • USB-C rechargeable, rated for about 5 days of typical use per charge, with an adjustable angle and a recommended mounting height of 8 to 35 inches.
  • It’s a single-beam laser rather than a dual-beam design, but at least one reviewer specifically describes using it successfully across three cats at once, so a single-cat household isn’t a requirement.
  • Reliability is the most mixed area in the reviews — several owners get weeks to months of solid use, but others report a unit failing within the first week or two, or the motion sensor not triggering consistently.

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Additional Information

Laser Toy Frequent Q&A

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Wrap Up

Laser and light based toys are great options for cats, especially those with extremely high prey drives. They not only are easy to use, but these days there are a ton of automated options you can consider toy.  That being said, I still think the best laser toys for cats are your traditional hand held manual laser pointers.

If you have any questions or would like to leave your own thoughts about laser pointers please add a comment below!  Thanks for reading.

StuffCatsWant.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

KitNipBox Monthly Subscription Review

KitNipBox Review 2019 [New Cat Toys Delivered Monthly!]

The KitNipBox is a subscription box for your cat! Every month you’ll receive a new assortment of toys and treats to keep your fluff ball entertained and engaged.
On top of this there are several features and options to customize your box and your subscription as needed.

Product Name:

​KitNipBox Subscription Cat Box

Product Type:

​Subscription Cat Toy & Treat Box

Summary:

Subscription Boxes have been growing exponentially over the past few years and it was only a matter of time before they broke into pet stuff! KitNipBox is one of the pioneers in the cat subscription box.

The traditional KitNipBox will come delivered to your doorstep once a month with about 4-6 items in it. My experience after about 6 months is that I usually got 4 toys and then a bag of treats to go along with it.

All in all the KitNipBox has some great things going for it and I highly recommend it for anyone looking to build some variety into their own life and that of their kitties!

Rating:

What Is the KitNipBox?

The trend of subscription boxes started nearly a decade or so ago, but they’ve continued to branch out into pretty much every industry in recent years.

The KitNipBox is pretty straight forward. It is a subscription service that delivers a box to your house each month.

The key difference is that it is for a cat or multiple cats as opposed to for us humans. 

The Happy Cat KitNipBox (the basic subscription) will contain somewhere between four and six items per month. Typically you’ll find about four toys or accessories and then a bag of cat treats.

Depending on the estimated value of the items in the bag you may find more or fewer.  In my experience each of the boxes has an estimated value of somewhere near $25 dollars.

​The Video Review

If you’d rather see the KitNipBox toys in action then check out the video review. I’ll cover what came in my boxes as well as what was successful and what didn’t really entertain my cats!  On top of that I’ll give my overall thoughts on a KitNipBox subscription:

​What Options Are Available?

Dietary Restrictions

Because many cats have dietary restrictions there’s an option in the KitNipBox subscription to simply stop receiving treats / edible items. This doesn’t mean you just lose the value, instead they replace it with another toy or another accessory for pets.

This is a great option to have available even if your cat doesn’t have any special RX needs. Even with two cats we simply don’t go through that many treats on a monthly basis. 

Given this after a few months of constantly getting new bags of treats our shelf was just overflowing with excess cat treats! We turned this off about four months in to switch it up for toys instead!

lexi sniffing the kitnipbox

Single Cat vs Multi Cat Subscription:

The Single Cat Subscription is by far the most common subscription most households will choose. It is also called the Happy Cat Box in case you end up on the website and aren’t sure what I am talking about. It traditionally includes about 4 different cat toys or accessories like brushes and then a bag of cat treats.

If you have multiple cats and your kitties don’t do the best job sharing then you may want to splurge for the Multi Cat box instead.

The Multi Cat Box includes more items to ensure that you’ve got an entire slew of toys available for your kitties! On average you’re looking at a total of about X items in a Multi Cat Subscription Box. 

You can of course also turn off treats in your Multi Cat box if you’re not interested in treats or if your kitty has dietary issues.

​Is Managing the Subscription Easy?

I signed up for my KitNipBox subscription through Amazon as that’s where I first discovered it.  Managing the subscription through Amazon was a breeze. Simply sign up and the box showed up a couple of weeks later.

After about 6 months of boxes our home was temporarily overloaded with kitty toys! There was plenty of novelty and we had enough toys to easily rotate in and out to keep both our cats entertained for a good long period of time.

Given this I flipped the subscription off temporarily on Amazon and it only took a minute. No hassle, no 10 step cancellation process, no extra charges after I already requested to cancel it.

Managing the subscription was a breeze.

​What if I Live Outside the US?

Unfortunately the KitNipBox is not available in all countries. But, it is available in both Canada and Australia.  There are additional shipping charges for Canada and Australia compared to delivery in the United States.

Be sure to account for this if you decide to pursue purchasing a subscription.

If you live elsewhere you can try directly contacting the KitNipBox team to see what they can do!

​Can I Give KitNipBox as a Gift?

If you’re looking for an awesome gift for a friend or family member then the KitNipBox subscription has you covered. You can easily set up a subscription on their website as a gift and you can purchase it for varying lengths of time.

A single month is definitely the cheapest overall option, but if you buy up in number of deliveries then you’ll start to recognize savings. If you go as far as twelve months the KitNip team will knock a full 33% of the price off of every single box!

​Other Benefits

As an added benefit you can see all of the additional charities and organizations that KitNipBox supports right on their website.

Each of these organizations is focused on rescuing cats in unsafe situations, trap neuter release (TNR) programs, and feline welfare causes.

A Few Unboxing Videos

If you’re curious to see specifically what was in the last few KitNipBoxes I received you can check out the YouTube videos for each of them here as well as a complete summary of each of the toys:

Click Here To See What Was In the December 2018 Box

  1. Playful Pet Mistletoe Door Hanger – Value $7.00 – Basically a simple door hanger that hangs on the frame of the door and a leaf shape hangs down with a catnip scent. 30 seconds after hanging it up Lexi was batting at it and chewing on it.
  2. Safemade Kitten Mitten – Value $5.00 – A small sized toy shaped like a mitten that is stuffed with North American catnip and a squishy filling.
  3. MAX Catnip Candy Cane – Value $5.00 – This candy cane is soft and is loaded with catnip to keep your kitty interested!
  4. LEAP Snowflake Kicker – Value $5.00 – A traditional style kicker toy, filled with catnip and crinkle style paper to keep your kitty enticed. 
  5. Kittles Turkey and Cranberry Crunchy Treats – Value $4.00 – Some great crunchy treats that I’m sure Lexi and Beast will go for. Although they seem a bit behind the time delivering turkey and cranberry in December!

Click Here To See What Was In the November 2018 Box

  1. All for Paws Cream and Sugar Wand (Valued at $7.00) – It is a simple plastic wand with a ribbon on the end and 2 cloth balls. One has beans inside it to make noise when it shakes.
  2. ‘R Squad Purrl Grey Tea Toss Toy (Valued at $5.00) – A simple cloth bag filled with catnip.
  3. LEAP Delicious Catnip Donut (Valued at $5.00) – A donut shaped toy filled with catnip and crinkle paper to keep your kitty interested.
  4. All For Paws Crinkle Tea Pot (Valued at $4.00) – A knited tea pot with crinkle paper inside to keep your kitty interested
  5. So Bright Freeze Dried Kittle Treats (valued at $4.00) – Freeze dried chicken treats with low calories and high protein.

Click Here To See What Was In the October 2018 Box

  1. ‘R Squad Crinkle Pennant (Valued at $5.00) – This is one of Lexi’s favorites. It is a pennant shaped toy with crinkle paper and catnip inside. 
  2. Paws and Purrs Pizza Pillow (valued at $5.00) – Pizza shaped toy that looks like it has lots of toppings and it very plush and fluffy. Great for batting and tossing!
  3. Tiger Tail Mascot Wand (Valued at $7.00) – A typical wand toy colored like a tiger tail. Does a great job of being swung around!
  4. All for Paws Pencil Kicker (Valued at $5.00) – A yellow pencil with pink frills on the end of it. A great size for batting and toss, another favorite of Lexi’s.
  5. PureBites Freeze Dried Shrimp Treats (Valued at $4.00) – Delectible single ingredient (shrimp) treats! Beast loves these treats and chows them down with abandon.

Click Here To See What Was In the September 2018 Box

  1. All for Paws Chef (Valued at $5.00) – A cute little cat dressed up as a chef with catnip inside it to keep your kitty engaged and excited!
  2. Safemade Pawlice Badge (Valued at $5.00) – A bright yellow police badge that is perfectly sized for tossing and batting (Lexi LOVES this toy). Loaded with catnip!
  3. Playful Pet Envelope Pillow (Value at $5.00) – A plush toy shaped like an envelope that has crinkle paper inside and a bell to keep your cat engaged.
  4. Curry Grooming Brush (valued at $6.00) – A silicone/rubber style cat brush designed to help pull loose fur out of your cat’s coat.
  5. Wellness Kittles duck and Cranberries Treats (valued at $4.00) – 100% natural crunchy treats made with real duck!

​Is It Worth the Cost?

Each box includes a card that lists out each of the components as well as the value of each item.  The value of the KitNipBox came in at about $25 dollars or so when you added up the projected cost of everything.

I will admit that it is difficult to determine if I could have gotten the toys or similar toys for the same price elsewhere. The toys that come in the KitNipBox cannot be located elsewhere no matter where I searched.

Out of sheer curiosity I tried Amazon, Chewy, Petco, PetSmart, Krisers, etc. and had no luck.

This isn’t surprising or alarming to me. The team uses their own suppliers that make toys just for KitnipBox to minimize costs and bring you value. The complexity comes in that because the toys aren’t available elsewhere you simply can’t compare the prices to buying each of them separately.

I am very content with the cost of a box for what comes in it.

MeowBox vs KitNipBox

MeowBox is another subscription based service focused specifically on entertaining cats and their owners.  There aren’t a huge number of differences between the subscriptions, but there are definitely a few things worth calling out that may be of interest to you!

Similarities:

  • Your cats are going to love both of these subscription boxes!
  • Both MeowBox and KitNipBox include between 4 and 6 items per month.
  • The boxes are mostly filled with toys or cat accessories like brushes.

Differences:

  • The MeowBox allows you to spread out your delivery frequency to every other month.
  • The basic MeowBox costs slightly more than the KitNipBox.
  • The MeowBox is not available through Amazon Subscriptions.

KitNipBox Review Summary

On the overall the subscription to KitNipBox can be a heck of a lot of fun and your cats will love it.  You’ll also love the novelty of it as it shows up at your house every month and you get a chance to dig through the toys and show them to your cats.

Both Lexi and Beast seem to really like different kinds of toys. Given this the variety helps keep both of them entertained.  Lexi loves crinkle toys with catnip inside them and Beast seems to go for things that are small and easily batted around.

All in all I was happy with my KitNipBox subscription. I wish I had turned treats off earlier though as I still have treats a few months later.  On top of this I would love to see KitNipBox include some smaller sized toys inside the box.

I know many people associate size with value so including small toys could be misconstrued as being cheap, but many cat toys just seem too large for Beast and she’ll simply ignore them.

The short of it is that I’m happy I got the subscription, but I definitely don’t need a new box each month for my cats. Some cats are far harder on toys and will chew and tear them up.

Given Lexi and Beast don’t do this it is easy to spray some catnip spray on the toys and get them re-engaged again.

​8.5

The Good Stuff:
  • Fun toys and treats delivered to your door!
  • Keeps my cats engaged and they love the novelty of new toys!
  • Very affordable for what you are receiving!
  • Options to turn off the treats or edible in the box.
  • Options for multiple cats in the household.
Room to Improve:
  • Most of the toys I have received are on the large side. Beastling won’t play with large toys nearly as much as small toys so I’d love to see more small toys included.
  • I would love to see an option to receive the box every other month.

Additional References: KitNipBox’s Website, The MeowBox Website

StuffCatsWant.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

The furminator for cats with long hair review

Furminator for Cats With Long Hair Review [ByeBye Hairballs]

The ​Furminator for Cats With Long Hair is a specialized brush designed specifically to deshed long haired cat breeds. It does its job wonderfully and has tons of ​significant benefits for both you and your feline friend.

Product Name:

Furminator for Cats With Long Hair

Product Type:

Cat Brush / Cat De-shedding Tool

Summary:

Long haired cats come with all sorts of their own unique needs, especially if they are particularly large or if their hair is extra long or thick.  Brushing your long haired cat can be a daily requirement for many cat owners.

The Furminator comes in many designs and sizes, but the version specifically for long haired cats will help any cat owner decrease shedding, minimize hairballs, give your kitty a shiny coat and even help you develop a bond with your cat!

Rating:

Watch the Full Video Review

If you’re not much on reading and you really want to see the Furminator in action then you catch the whole video review here:

Will It Help Decrease Hairballs?

Absolutely! If you’re tired of hairballs then you’re going to love this brush.

Cats normally ingest the larger portion of hair that they pull off of themselves during self grooming. This results in the hair getting into the digestive track.

When the hair doesn’t pass through the track faster than it builds up it results in your kitty getting a hairball. It really isn’t a pleasant experience for anyone involved, your cat included.

By using the Furminator you’re able to assist your feline friend in removing a large portion of the loose fur before it can ever end up in their mouth. This means less fur in the digestive track.

Less fur in the digestive track means it can pass through much faster than it can build up and cause a hairball. Celebration all around!

Does It Minimize Shedding?

Shedding is mostly from loose fur that has already fallen out of your cat’s skin, but hasn’t yet made it off and onto the floor or into the air yet.  Brushing your kitty will help pick up many of those hairs.

The more hairs you pick up there the less likely they are to end up on the floor or floating around your house where you’ll see them in those beams of sunlight piercing through the window on a beautiful day.

What is the best brush for long haired cats

Although almost any brush will help, most brushes are only designed to pull loose hair off the surface of your cat’s coat.

The Furminator for long haired cats is specially designed to get into the undercoat and remove loose fur from multiple levels of your cat’s coat to stop shedding in its tracks!

If you combine daily brushing with something like an automatic robot vacuum you can pretty much kiss fur tumbleweeds goodbye in the foreseeable future!

Will It Help Promote a Healthy Coat?

​Brushing your cat will also help remove hairs that have already lost their connection to your kitty. Not only will this ensure only the newer shinier hairs stay present, but it’ll pull away the strays.

On top of this brushing your cat will also help spread the natural oils your kitty produces throughout her entire coat!  This is a huge benefit, especially for older cats who maybe can’t do this as easily themselves anymore.

Do note that if your kitty doesn’t have a nice shiny coat even with brushing that you may want to consider modifying your cat’s diet.

A diet of high quality food that is rich in fatty acids like omega 3s can really help your feline friend shine again! You can read more about the best ways to modify your cat’s diet here on PetMD.

Does It Pull Out Too Much Hair?

If you’re buying a deshedding tool for your cat and you get in a rhythm using it then you may start using it on a daily basis. You might even start to worry if you’re pulling out too much hair.

After an in depth discussion with my veterinarian he basically indicated that it is pretty hard to pull out too much hair.  You’re far more likely to ​irritate your cat’s skin than you are to perform any lasting damage to your cat’s coat.

The short answer is there’s really nothing to worry about here unless you start brushing your cat way too much or too often and this is a relative term. Many cats with extra thick or extra long coats may require daily brushing and attention for maintenance purposes!

If you do happen to go too far most cats will make this well known by expressing their feelings with meows, their paws ​or even their teeth.

Will it Irritate My Cat’s Skin?

The Furminator is specifically designed to be gentle on your cat’s skin as you use it. The tines built into the brush aren’t sharp and will not scratch or puncture your cat’s skin.

All brushes have the opportunity to potentially irritate your cat’s skin if they are overused or used incorrectly. Given this be sure to take signs from your kitty when you are potentially hitting a sensitive area or an area they simply don’t like being brushed.

You’ll see in the video above that Lexi simply hates having her sides and tummy brushes. They are far more sensitive than her back and tail. Brushing her back and tail though still have huge benefits!

Will it Help Cat Allergies?

​Allergies are another common complaint that some cat owners experience. Allergies are traditionally caused by cat dander, but the more fur floating around the house the more likely that dander is to cause issues.

Cat dander easily binds to fur and then as stray or loose fur falls off your cat it gets blown around the house and may hand on someone with allergies.

a woman blowing her nose from allergies

Brushing on a consistent basis can easily help reduce issues with cat allergies and the Furminator does a great job of pulling off loose fur from both the outer and undercoat of your cat!

​If you are having issues with allergies even with brushing you may want to consider adding a high quality HEPA air filter to your home or to the room(s) you spend the most time in.

​Are There Any Alternatives?

​If you don’t ​like the Furminator for one reason or another then there are plenty of other great options out there on the market.  They range from de-shedding tools to de-matting tools to other simple brushes.

You can check out my favorites in the below article:

​The other alternatives that are always available are to take your kitty to a groomer or ask your vet to give your kitty a quick brushing. These options are usually more common for trimming hair though than brushing.​

Furminator for Cats With Long Hair

All in all this has proven to be a life saver for us with our long haired cat Lexi. Lexi used to get a couple of hairballs a month and we’d always fund them sitting in the middle of a rug when we’d wake up in the morning or got home from work.

Yuck, to say the least.  

Once we started brushing her consistently with the Furminator this weekly ritual has gone the way of the dinosaur. No more nasty hairballs to step on or see lying on the ground in the morning.

We’ve also seen a huge decrease in clumps of Lexi’s black fur stuck in our rugs or floating around on the floor as we used to.

All in all a huge win for us!

10

The Good Stuff:
  • Minimizes hairballs
  • Desheds loose fur so you don’t have to vacuum it up
  • Super easy to hold for extended or constant use
  • Easily and conveniently ejects fur with the push of a button
  • Lexi often starts purring during use
  • Helps build a positive bond with your kitty
The Bad Stuff:
  • Could irritate skin if overused or used incorrectly (true of most any brush)

StuffCatsWant.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

The furminator for cats with short hair review

Furminator for Cats With Short Hair Review [Stop Shedding!]

The ​Furminator for Cats With ​Short Hair is a specialized brush designed specifically to ​pull loose hair off of the outer coat and the undercoat of your short haired cat.
It does its job ​very efficiently and effectively. ​As an added benefit to you as the owner it ​also has lots of other perks worth considering.

Product Name:

Furminator for Cats With ​Short Hair

Product Type:

Cat Brush / Cat De-shedding Tool

Summary:

​Short haired cats may not need daily hair brushing sessions to ensure they don’t get matting or tangles, but that doesn’t mean that daily hair brushing doesn’t bring tons of benefits! ​

Brushing short haired cats has lots of perks for both you and your kitty. ​The ​Furminator comes in many designs and sizes, but ​this ​one is engineered to specifically benefit short haired cats!

It’ll help your short haired cat ​maintain an ​extra shiny coat, minimize shedding, decrease hairballs and ​if your cat is anything like my cat Beast it’ll help you develop a bond with your cat so she comes running at brushing time!

Rating:

Watch the Full Video Review

Seeing The Furminator in action ​is the best way to actually get a grasp on how great of a job it does and how much a cat can actually enjoy being brushed. 

Check out the video review to see the brush actually working and see how much my cat Beastling loves it.

​Shedding Is Driving Me Nuts!

With cats having up to 130,000 hairs per square inch of their coat, you’ve got a lot of potential cat hair that can fall out of your feline friend! In fact, one of the biggest complaints from cat owners are how often they shed.

Surprisingly the constant shedding of household cats is largely driven by humans modifying how much light a cat receives on a daily basis. Because cats have quite constant and varied light supplies they basically constantly shed in your house! Wild felines do not shed like this!

Anyway, that being said, brushing is by far the single most effective method for humans to help their cats minimize shedding. ​It picks up all the loose fur from the outer coat and if you use a brush like the Furminator it even gets to the undercoat too!

The more hairs you ​manage to extract while brushing ​the less hair that ​ends up on the floor or floating around your house. All the more reason to establish a brushing regiment!

The Furminator for ​short haired cats is specially designed to ​help you minimize the amount of loose fur you’ll find all over the house. That being said, there’s no way to stop it completely if you’ve got a cat with hair!

Daily brushing combined with ​automatic robot vacuums ​can make a powerful combination that enables you to kiss floating fur goodbye. ​

​My Cat Keeps Getting Hairballs!

Hairballs are far more common in cats with long hair, but it certainly doesn’t stop short haired cats from getting them!  And any cat that isn’t being brushed consistently will likely experience them from time to time.

When cats groom themselves they use their tongue to pull loose hair, dirt and debris out of their coat. This results in them ​ingesting ​most of hair that they pull off of themselves. ​

Once the hair is ingested it tends to sit in the digestive track and slowly work its way through. But sometimes ​the hair doesn’t pass through the track ​as fast as necessary and ​it builds up. ​When the buildup is large enough it results in your ​cat getting a hairball. ​

an overweight short haired cat

Brushing your cat will significantly reduce the amount of hair she ingests and thus reduce the amount of hair sitting in her digestive track. By default this will reduce the number of hairballs your kitty encounters.

By using the Furminator you’re able to assist your feline friend in removing a large portion of the loose fur before it can ever end up in their mouth. This means less fur in the digestive track.

​My Cat’s Coat Doesn’t Look Healthy, Should I Still Brush Her?

Your cats coat health is heavily driven by your cats internal health. If your cat isn’t eating well or is having other health problems they are often reflected in the quality and shine of your cat’s coat.

The most common issue with a cat’s coat stems from the cat not eating a high quality diet.  If you want your cat’s coat to shine and look great the most important pieces are to ensure she gets enough protein and also the necessary amino acids and fatty acids that will help her produce natural oils.

When your cat ​has a healthy diet she will naturally produce the oils that make for a shiny and beautiful coat, but your cat still typically needs to groom herself to get the oils spread throughout her whole coat.

Older cats and overweight cats may have difficulty doing this on their own. ​Brushing your cat will ​help spread the natural oils your kitty produces throughout her entire coat!​

So if your cat’s coat isn’t looking great, but they are already on a healthy diet, then brushing can be a huge benefit that can be transformative for the look of the coat!

Do note that if your kitty doesn’t have a nice shiny coat even with brushing and a healthy diet that you may want to ​talk to your veterinarian to see if there are any other options worth ​looking at.

​You may also want to ​read ​this article on PetMD​ to review other potential causes for a drab coat.

​What If I Brush Too Often?

​If you get onto a schedule and start brushing your kitty daily then you may start to realize that your brushing sessions eventually pull out quite a bit less hair than they once did.

This is because by consistently brushing the loose hairs no longer have a chance to build up in the deeper layers of your cat’s coat before you brush them out!  There’s really nothing to worry about!

After an in depth discussion with my veterinarian he basically indicated that it is pretty hard to pull out too much hair.  

a kitten on a laptop

In fact, lots of ​cats with extra thick ​coats may require daily brushing and attention for maintenance purposes and to help you keep your own sanity.

You’re far more likely to ​irritate your cat’s skin than you are to perform any lasting damage to your cat’s coat.

​If you do happen to go too far most cats will make this well known. They are prone to ​meows, smack at you with their paws ​or even ​mouth or snap at you if you get way too aggressive with the brush.

​Could Brushing Cause Skin Rashes?

The Furminator is specifically designed to be gentle on your cat’s skin as you use it. The tines built into the brush aren’t sharp and will not scratch or ​poke holes in your cat’s skin.

All brushes and deshedding tools ​can irritate your cat’s skin if they are overused or used incorrectly. This involves pushing too hard or pulling the brush through obvious knots and mats without proper care.

​Be sure to take signs from your ​cat ​on what is ok and what isn’t comfortable. Most cats are quite clear on what they enjoy versus don’t. If your cat swats at you then you should definitely avoid brushing the area that caused it.

If there’s clearly an issue with hair the area that needs to be treated then you may want to consider going to a veterinarian or a professional groomer.

​Beastling gets brushed numerous times a week, sometimes for up to 15 minutes at a time. She’s never once experienced a skin rash or irritation at the hands of the Furminator.

The only thing we have noticed after extensive use is some lightweight dander which was easily remedied by adding fish oil supplements to her dry food per the recommendation of her vet.

​Will Brushing Relieve Allergies?

There’s a common misconception out there that cat fur causes allergies. While simply not true, it can make allergies worse! There are no known allergic reactions to fur itself, but instead they are caused by ​​cat dander.

The problem comes in that as dander falls off your kitty it commonly ​binds to fur. Then when the fur falls off and floats around ​the house ​it can easily cause allergic reactions if it lands on someone or if they touch it and have an allergy.

No fun for anyone involved! On the bright side brushes can help and the Furminator is one of the best there is!  Brushing on a consistent basis can easily help reduce issues with cat allergies  by pulling dander covered hairs off of your cat and placing them directly in the garbage.

​Not only does this minimize the amount of fur floating around, but it of course takes all the dander that has bound itself to the fur out of the house too!

​If you are ​still have ​allergy issues after establishing a brushing routine then ​you ​should consider adding a high quality HEPA air filter to your home or to the room(s) you spend the most time in.

Furminator for Cats With ​Short Hair

​Although Beast wasn’t particularly known for hairballs when we got this brush, she was known for leaving clumps of grey fur and tumbleweeds of grey fur absolutely everywhere!

Who know a cat could produce ​so much fur​?  According to PetMD cats can have over 130,000 hairs per square inch on their body.​​​ That is absolutely insane to think about considering the size of an average cat.

The Furminator has made a marked decrease in the amount of fur floating around our house. You can see in the video review how many hairs come out from a few simply strokes of the brush.

Given that Beast loves being brushed we ​see a huge benefit from the Furminator. On top of this, we have also noticed an extra shiny coat after mixing some fish oil capsules into her food once or twice a week per the recommendation of our vet!

​10

The Good Stuff:
  • ​Beast goes into full purring mode when she gets brushed, she absolutely ​loves​ brushing time​​​
  • Helps build a positive bond with your kitty
  • Desheds loose fur so you ​can minimize the number of fur tumbleweeds floating around your home
  • Super easy to hold for extended or constant use
  • Easily and conveniently ejects fur with the push of a button
The Bad Stuff:
  • ​Has the potential to cause skin irritation

StuffCatsWant.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

catbox cardboard boxes for your cats

CATBOX – [The Purrfect] Cardboard Boxes for Cats

The Catbox Cardboard Box for Cats is a simple, but beautifully designed box that is engineered specifically to make your cat love relaxing in it, on it, and all around it!
Not only is it a perfect fit for most cats size wise, but it helps humans think their cats are rock stars and astronauts!

Product Name:

Catbox Cardboard Box for Cats

Product Type:

Cat Entertainment, Cat Toy, Cat Box

Summary:

Do your cats like boxes?  Let’s be honest, whose cats don’t like boxes?

The Catbox was designed by J. Magnus Nelson and Jamie Bourgeois: two friends who share a mutual love for cats and this weird box thing that they do.

The box is a perfect fit for any cat. They love sleeping in it. Chewing on it. Sleeping near it. Head bunting it. Looking like an alien in it. Looking like a rock star in it. Cats love pretty much everything about these boxes.

These boxes are currently in their last week of pre-ordering on Kickstarter. Check them out by clicking the link below or read more and see the video review below.

Rating:

What is the Catbox?

Catbox is defined by the designers as “the cat bed of your favorite feline’s dreams!” And although it is a traditional cardboard box made of recyclable corrugated cardboard, it really does seem to be quite a dream for cats!

There are a couple of key features worth noting to ensure you know exactly what you’re getting when you buy a Catbox.

There are cut-outs on each end for face scratching, easy head resting and bunting. As we all know, cats absolutely love boxes for some reason or another (read more below on this).

But you should be aware that the Catbox isn’t just for your cats. If you wanted that you could simply go on an Amazon Prime binge and order a bunch of big stuff and then let your cats play with the boxes.

Catboxes are illustrated on the outside to transform those lazy furballs into your comical reality. If you’ve ever attempted to dress your at up in a costume and realized they don’t like it (surprise!) then this is a great alternative.

My cat beast relaxing in a catbox

When your feline friend that loves to sleep wanders into the Catbox they will be transformed into one of the first cats to ever traverse the troposphere and join the Cat Space Force!  Or perhaps you’ve got a musically inclined cat and they want to be strutting around on stage!

Who knows where the newest cat boxes will take our feline friends?

Is It Environmentally Friendly?

The creators of Catbox are 100% dedicated to ensuring that their product is environmentally friendly. They’ve made sure pretty much every base is covered on this end:

  • All of the actual Catbox cardboard boxes are composed of 100% recycled corrugated cardboard
  • The labels are printed with vegetable based inks to ensure nothing toxic gets into your cat or into the environment 
  • The boxes are designed, manufactured and shipped from Georgia, USA by Pratt Industries which is known for being environmentally conscious
  • The mailers the boxes are shipped in are even recyclable

Talk about dedication to ensuring a product minimizes its overall impact on the planet! They’ve thought of pretty much everything.

My only concern is when my cat learns to fly the astronaut box. I’m wondering if that’ll have a carbon footprint…

Why Do Cats Love Boxes?

You might ask yourself why cats seem to like boxes. This is similar to understand why cats like being up high and current theories tend to push it back to history and genetics.

Cats are both predator and prey. They aren’t the king of the jungle like tigers are. Given this they like places that can provide both visibility and security.

Small spaces make sure that cats can’t be approached without them seeing whatever is coming. They also provide great cover to ensure that nothing can see them either.

Now your typical house cat doesn’t really deal with being anyone’s prey and nor do they usually end up doing much hunting for real, but they still have habits that hearken back to instincts that have been ingrained into them over thousands of years.

Given this they have a tendency to seek out small spaces, like cave type beds, cardboard boxes and even sometimes hiding under the couch.

Dr. Stephen Zawistowski of the ASPCA summed it up pretty well when he said “They can get into that box and they can’t be approached from the side or the back where they’re not aware of it.”

The Catbox team has provided various additional research points on their Kickstarter site if you’re curious, so definitely go ahead and check it out for more detail!

But one last thing I will mention is that a study by Dutch researchers found that cats who were provided with a box adapted more quickly to a new environment compared to a control group of cats who were not provided with a box.

Given this the science is basically telling us that cats like to have boxes around and they’ll have significant behavioral benefits from doing so! If you ever need to justify your  purchase of a Catbox to your significant other or your parents now you’ve got all the ammunition you need! Get a Catbox now!

The Video Overview & Review

Catbox Cardboard Boxes for Cats

All in all this has proven to be a great product to add to our arsenal of items around the house to keep the cats entertained and happy. And we all know the phrase “Happy cat, happy life.” don’t we? 

Well, I know that phrase. And don’t accuse me of just having made it up, cause I totally didn’t.

5

The Good Stuff:
  • Beautifully designed
  • Super simply construction
  • Cats love to sleep in them
  • Cats love to chew on them
  • Cats love to bunt them
  • Cats look like astronauts and rockstars in them
The Bad Stuff:
  • Nothing discovered so far!

If you’re wondering where you can read more about Catbox you can check out the Catbox Website right here. 

In full disclosure I was given my Catbox for free, but I have actually already invested in another on Kickstarter so both Lexi and Beast can both sleep in them at the same time!

StuffCatsWant.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

a cat sniffing coffee and text saying the best slow feeder cat bowls for cats

The 11 Best Slow Feeder Cat Bowls 2021 [Stop Vomiting Now]

If your cat eats quickly then pukes it probably both worries you and makes you crazy.

The good news is there’s a simple solution to stop cats from eating too fast.

Take a regular old bowl, build some unique designs into it to spread the food out, voila!  Now your cat needs to eat around the design barriers and can’t wolf down the food.

So let’s get right into some of the best slow feeder cat bowls of 2021.

Table of Contents

The Best Slow Feeder cat bowls Quick Guide

Key Highlight

Product Name

Best Overall

Cat Shaped Slow Feed Cat Bowl

Best Ceramic Model

DotPet Ceramic Slow Feed Plate

Most Economic

Gulp Stopping Plastic Slow Feeder

Great for Large Cats

Fun Stop Slow Feeding Bowl

Multi Cat Ceramic

Ceramic Slow Feeding Station

Most Stimulating

Cat Catch Interactive Feeding Bowl

Best Multi Pet Option

Outward Hound Multi Pet Slow Bowl

Most Ergonomic

Northmate Interactive Cat Feeder

Extra Large

Extra Large Slow Feed Valley Bowl

Collapsible for Travel

Collapsible Slow Feeding Bowl Set

Great For Flat Faced Cats

Soft Silicone Slow Feed Mat Puzzle

Automatic Release

Trixie Cat Tunnel Slow Feeder

Varying Difficulties

Catit Digger Slow Feeder For Cats

Additional Information

Why Do Cats Vomit From Eating Too Fast?

What Types of Slow Feeders Are There?

Are There Alternatives to Slow Feeding Bowls?

What About Food Puzzles?

Are Slow Feeders Good for Weight Loss?

Do It Yourself Slow Feeders

Wrapping It Up on Slow Feeding Options

The Best Slow Feeder Cat Bowls

Cat Shaped Slow Feed Cat Bowl

three cat shaped feeding bowls to slow feed a cat

If you’re looking for something designed specifically by veterinarians then this is the model from SimplyPets is for you. On top of that it is also environmentally friendly which is a huge plus as more of us are watching our ecological footprint.

As you can see it is cat shaped which is adorable, but it has also been designed and tested extensively to ensure it requires your cat to work for food, but isn’t too difficult to get frustrated and abandon eating.

A few other key notes worth looking at before purchasing:

  • This bowl is manufactured from bamboo fiber and rice husk, totally safe for cats and the planet
  • It was designed and tested by vets to ensure it has the proper balance of difficulty and speed
  • It is larger than a traditional cat bowl to promote slower eating over a longer period
  • It comes in three different colors so you can mix and match for fun or for specific pets
  • Designed to work for both small and large breeds and has a low profile of 1.5″ tall
  • The bowl is 100% dishwasher safe so you can disinfect it easily

“One of my two kitties is a big time gobbler and has been since the day we adopted him from the shelter. We’d tried separate rooms and multiple smaller meals per day, but it was difficult with our work schedule. This works great, we put food in when we walk out the door and we have only had one accident in the past few months!”

The following is a concern for some owners of this product:

  • As with most other solid plastic bowls, flat faced cats can have a difficult time directly eating from the bowl and may abandon eating at all due to the frustration

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DotPet Ceramic Slow Feed Plate

a ceramic plate designed for slow feeding cats

Even though this is much more a plate than a mat I wanted to include it because it is made of ceramic which is one of the best materials around for keeping things hygienic. 

It is a very large plate with a lot of surface area that you can pour kibble or wet food onto. One of the biggest perks is the low profile of the plate which ensures cats of all kinds can easily eat from it.

A few other key items worth noting:

  • Made of ceramic, it is by far one of the safest options because it is super easy to disinfect
  • It is of course 100% dishwasher safe if you don’t feel like hand washing it
  • The low profile, 1.6 inches at its peak, means even flat faced cats can easily use it
  • It is quite large, the plate measures over 8 inches in diameter, meaning plenty of space for food
  • The heavier weight of ceramic keeps it from sliding around even on hardwood floors

“It has done wonders for our cats that scarf and barf. The only problem we had with it was in the middle our Persian can’t reach the food. We started pouring it out toward the edges mostly and we haven’t had a single problem since then!”

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Gulp Stopping Plastic Slow Feeder

a green bowl with three pillars in the middle

This gulp stopping option comes in tons of different sizes and color options, so it is an excellent all around slow feeding bowl for cats of any size and homes of any decor!

It is make of melamine, which is a component used to make plastics. But not to worry, it is 100% non toxic and also 100% dishwasher safe for easy cleaning!

A few other key items worth noting about this bowl:

  • It has three feed slowing humps built into the middle of it to minimize gobbling
  • There’s a curved handle built right into the side of the bowl for easy pick up
  • It has an anti slip rubber strip around the entire base to stop it from sliding around
  • It comes in four different sizes, the half cup option is ideal for most cats
  • There are 8 different color options so you can mix and match for multi pet houses
  • The smallest option measures 5.5 inches in diameter and 2 inches tall

“It slowed down my food crazed kitty with ease! No more spewing after erasing an entire meal in a matter of minutes.”

It is worth considering the following:

  • If your kitty doesn’t know to use her paws to move food then you’ll want to consider a different option, the depth of this bowl can make it difficult to get to the bottom of it

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Fun Stop Slow Feeding Bowl

a light blow slow feeder bowl for cats

This is another great option in the family of slow cat feeding bowls that are made of plastic. All of the ridges and knobs in the center of the bowl make it perfect for slowing down even the most determined cat.

This bowl also has significant capacity if you need to feed multiple cats at the same time or if you’e got a cat that gulps, but fills up really quickly! It is also made of food safe plastic (meaning it is the same type of plastic we prepare human food on).

A few other key items worth noting:

  • The bowl has a total of 13 ridges and knobs to slow your kitty down when eating
  • All of the ridges and knobs are smoothed so your cat won’t get scratched or cut
  • It has a huge capacity at over 7 inches in diameter and 1.8 inches deep
  • The extra wide base makes it difficult to knock over and anti skid pads keep it in place
  • There are three different color options available: blue, yellow and rose

“I have three cats and this works great for the two ten pound cats to share. The 16 pound boy (no he’s not overweight) has trouble getting his paws in to pull the kibble out though so don’t go with this if you’ve got a big cat.”

You’ll want to consider the following before making a purchase:

  • If you’ve got a larger cat this might not be a great option because there isn’t space for large cat paws to get between the ridges and knobs built in.

Back to the Quick Guide

Ceramic Slow Feeding Station

a white ceramic station to slow down your cats eating

This is clearly a little bit different than your traditional slow feeding bowl. Pioneer Pet has flipped the paradigm on its head to make your kitty find the right spot to reach the food from.

There are lots of different holes in different shapes all around the feeding station and you can dump food right in the center of it. It even has a built in funnel in the top to make this easy.

Once the food is in the middle your cat can pull the food out to the edge and then chomp it down. At most they get a few kibbles each time. A few other great things worth noting:

  • The feeding station limits your cat from eating quickly by making them work for the food
  • The stations is 100% ceramic so it is totally safe for the dishwasher for disinfection
  • Has a built in funnel in the top to easily pour food right into the middle
  • Ceramic is a heavy material so the feeder doesn’t move around even when pawed at
  • There are two color options, white and black, both look really nice and sleek

“An excellent way to reduce food intake and also challenge my little fluff balls overly active mind that is always looking for things to destroy! 4 paws up!”

The key issue worth considering on this option is:

  • There is one design improvement that really needs to be made, there shouldn’t be a lip toward the edge of the feeder on the inside. It makes it very difficult for the cats to get the kibble out of the feeder to eat, too difficult. They can get frustrated and simply give up.

Back to the Quick Guide

Cat Catch Interactive Feeding Bowl

a purple dish with many prongs sticking out to make your cat eat slowly

Catch is a brand new way to turn eating into an interactive game for your kitty. It also creates a slower experience than simply gulping down every bit of food in front of your feline friend.

This helps not only entertain your cat and burn some calories, but it also ensures that your cat won’t eat too quickly and simply throw the food back up a few minutes later!

A few other key items worth noting about this option:

  • This feeder is shown to slow consumption time by about 10 times a regular bowl
  • Comes in a bright brilliant purple and is large enough to easily feed multiple cats at once
  • This model measures about 10 inches by 9 inches and is 2.9 inches tall at the center
  • It is made with high-quality, food-safe ABS plastic that is free of BPA, PVC & Phthalates

“My two young cats and my older cat all figured out how to use it quickly and it helped my older inactive cat lose a few pounds over about a 3 month period of time. Win win!”

The biggest concern noted by some users of this model is:

  • You’ll probably need to visually teach your cat to pull the food out from between the raised areas of this model, they are too tightly packed to fit their head between them.

Back to the Quick Guide

Outward Hound Multi Pet Slow Bowl

a blue bowl for cats with many layers to make it harder to eat fast

If you’re looking for a great slow feeder that might work for both cats and dogs then this is an excellent option. While this model was designed specifically for dogs, it still works great for cats too!

The rings are just big enough that most cats can’t easily stick their entire head into the trough areas and eat the food right out of it. This means they’ll need to paw it out or move it around until they can reach it which is great for stimulation and for some exercise!

A few other items worth noting on the Outward Hound option

  • Naturally improves digestion by slowing your cats meals down significantly as they paw food out
  • Easily helps reduce bloating and vomiting by ensuring your kitty can’t eat too fast
  • Has a built in no slip base to stop it from skidding around as your kitty paws food out
  • Has varying sizes and designs to easily accommodate multi cat and multi pet households

“It is adorable watching Jenny paw her food out a few kibbles at a time and eat them off her mat. It has totally stopped her from puking and made eating her meals a much longer part of her day. And of course it is good for her overall weight too.”

One key item worth noting on this option:

  • Some cats don’t easily learn to paw their food out of this bowl and if they have a flat face they have have difficultly reaching the food in the deeper crevices

Back to the Quick Guide

Northmate Interactive Cat Feeder

a light purple slow feeding plate for cats

Northmate was one of the first to design an innovative feeder that stimulates a cat’s natural instincts and helps turn meal time into an inspiring hunting game instead of a gulp and puke game.

Even though it is a relatively simple solution it is incredibly effective and helps bring stimulation and fun to indoor cats that don’t normally get a chance to hunt other than during play time!

A few key items to note on this top of the line model:

  • The purple spikes are designed to mimic hunting through tufts of grass in a field
  • Designed to be 100% ergonomic and has no sharp edges that could injure your kitty
  • The spikes decrease in length toward the outside to reward their work in moving food
  • It is made of hard plastic (without phthalates) so is extremely durable and dishwasher safe.

“Our cat scarfs food down so fast she usually pukes up most of it completely undigested just a few minutes later. This has worked well in slowing her down and keeping her hard at work to get the food to the edges.”

You’ll probably want to consider the following before purchasing:

  • This model may be hard for flat faced cats to eat from unless they learn to pull the food completely off the feeder and onto the ground

Back to the Quick Guide

Extra Large Slow Feed Valley Bowl

a really large grey tray with numerous valleys to make it hard for cats to eat quickly

If you’re looking for the ultimate slow feeder in regards to size then this is an excellent option. It is absolutely huge and can easily accommodate multiple cats at the same time! It holds up to six cups of food at one time.

This model is perfect for any household that has multiple cats that eat together and there’s a need to slow any of them down. The amount of food it holds and the size make it a breeze for even 3 or 4 cats at a time.

A few other features worth noting:

  • Has 19 valleys to spread dry food across to ensure your cat can no longer gorge herself quickly
  • It comes in at a whopping 10 inches by 15 inches and easily holds 6 cups of food
  • Sits about 3 inches off the ground and the valleys are about 2 inches deep
  • It has an extension you can purchase to raise it an additional 3 inches off the ground for big cats
  • It also has a combination water dish you can purchase if you don’t already have a water fountain
  • Made from durable dishwasher safe ABS polymer and made right in the USA

“I bought two of these for my six cats as several of them often eat and vomit after. This has slowed all of them down a bit and ensured that none of them eat fast enough to vomit anymore! It is absolutely huge and works well for my house.”

The key things to keep in mind before purchasing this feeder:

  • It is absolutely gigantic coming in at 10 inches by 15 inches. Unless you have a need to feed multiple cats this is probably too big for you.

Back to the Quick Guide

Collapsible Slow Feeding Bowl Set

a set of two collapsible silicone bowls that have slow feeding mechanisms built in

If you’ve got a cat that travels often, or perhaps even an adventure cat that loves to go on walks and hikes, then this is the bowl for you. It fully collapsible into a disc that is less than an inch thick!

It is made of silicone and is 100% toxin free to keep your kitty safe and sound when eating! On top of this it travels super easily and comes fully equipped with a carabiner that can snap it onto your cat carrier.

A few other key items worth noting:

  • Easily morphs into three different depths to accommodate slow feeding anywhere
  • Comes with ridges of numerous sizes so even flat faced cats can reach food easily
  • Features a carabiner hook to easily connect it to any backpack or backpack cat carrier
  • The bowl is 7 inches in diameter and collapses to .7 inches tall when in slow feeding mode
  • It is made from 100% pet safe silicone and has BPA free plastic rim so it is safe for your cat

“These work great for Angelo. I feed him both wet and dry and it works great for both. Super easy to clean and even though he’s somewhat sensitive the material doesn’t bother him one bit!”

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Soft Silicone Slow Feed Mat Puzzle

a slightly soft silicone tray with low profile slow feeding waves built in

One of the biggest complaints many cat owners have is that cats that have a flat face have difficulty getting to food in other slow feeding bowls. Although most cats will learn to paw their food out of the bowl some can easily get frustrated and give up.

This model is made of sturdy, but flexible silicone that will give when your kitty pushes on it. This means that even flat faced cats can push the silicone out of the way to get to the food on the entire feeding mat!

A few other key items worth noting on this option:

  • This mat is made of soft durable silicone that is far more flexible than traditional plastic meaning it is easy for cats to push the waves out of the way to get to food between them
  • The mat is low profile at only 1.2 inches making it easier to eat from for even flat faced cats
  • The whole feeder is about 7.5 inches across meaning there’s plenty of space for lots of food
  • Can be easily thrown in the dishwasher for deep or standard cleaning

“I had a hard plastic bowl slow feeder for my Himalayan and she had a really hard time eating out of it because she wasn’t good with her paws. This has made her life significantly easier and she doesn’t puke anymore!”

It is worth noting the following before you purchase:

  • Smaller pieces of kibble are required to easily fit in between the wavy parts of the mat, using large format kibble will probably not work well

Back to the Quick Guide

Trixie Cat Tunnel Slow Feeder

the trixie cat feeder that makes it hard to eat quickly

This is another slow feeder that is bordering closely on being a food puzzle as opposed to a traditional slow feeding bowl. This model enables owners to simply pour kibble into the top and then let the cats paw it out through the bottom.

Given that it doesn’t really require a lot of thinking, just some work, I’ve categorized it in my slow feeding bowl article! It can also be just as easily used for hard treats too if you’re looking to reward your kitty after some extra work.

A few key items worth noting:

  • There is a bowl on top that releases food down into the base where six tunnels give access
  • Your kitty will then poke, pull and grab at the food to drag it to the outside to eat
  • You can adjust the speed at which the food and treats are dispensed from the top
  • This model is completely dishwasher safe so it is easy to clean
  • Cats of all sizes can easily use this model, kittens and huge Maine Coons can all get food

“I never thought I’d find an easy solution for my brand new adopted kitty until I tried this. He was always vomiting after every meal and this stopped it cold. He gets some extra exercise too!”

It is worth noting the following before purchasing:

  • The white outer bowl should probably be about an inch wider to enable cats with any type of face to easily eat from the bowl, cats with flat faces often have to pull the food onto the floor which may make you want to get an automatic vacuum to run nearby daily

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Catit Digger Slow Feeder For Cats

the catit digger that makes your cat paw out each piece of food

This definitely starts to edge into the idea of a food puzzle, but I’ve included it because it uses the same general mechanics of most slow feeding bowls in that it forces cats to paw food out of the tubes.

The nice part is that it is designed to allow for multiple cats to eat from it at the same time and it does have numerous tubes that you can fill to different levels for easier or more difficult eating.

All in all it is a great slow feeder and works well for multiple cats or kittens! A few items worth noting:

  • There are a total of 5 tubes and a bowl type shape that can each have foot put in them
  • Each tube and the bowl can be filled to different levels to provide easy and difficult access
  • There are 3 short tubes and two tall tubes that can be rotated for difficulty
  • It is compatible with other Catit Senses toys to keep your kitty entertained and stimulated
  • You can wash it in the dishwasher for easy cleaning as well
  • The Digger is quite large, 14.5 inches in diameter, so be sure you measure first

“Added some excitement to meal time for Fluffaluffagus. He used to just chow down the second the food hit the floor. Now he works for his meals by pawing the food out, but he doesn’t seem to mind one bit!”

It is worth noting the following on this before purchasing:

  • Most cats will pull out several pieces of kibble at a time and make a huge mess while eating

Back to the Quick Guide

Additional Information

Why Do Cats Vomit From Eating Too Fast?

Cats are quadrupeds which basically means they are on four legs instead of two.

This means your cat’s esophagus is horizontal rather than vertical. Food can slap against the lower esophageal sphincter and cause regurgitation of whole, undigested food several minutes after it’s consumed.

Slowing down gobbling will help.

Gobbling or wolfing down food can be due to many reasons, but there are two very common reasons.

Reason #1: Multi Cat Households

Cats that live in multi-cat households with portioned out meals can result in cats stealing food from one another. This is because some cats are more food motivated than others or simply like to eat more than others.

On top of this many cats simply like to chow their food down faster than other cats. My cats Lexi and Beast are totally different. Lexi loves to eat her entire meal right away, Beast grazes all day.

If I leave both bowls out Lexi will eat all the food immediately and Beast will end up with nothing the entire day. But when it comes to puking, the biggest problem is simply that Lexi eats everything so darn quickly.

Reason #2: Experiences of the Past

Even if your cat currently lives in a house with no other pets and no risk of her food being stolen she may still have memories or reflexes driven from her previous life.

Many cats that were strays in the past are prone to gobbling food down very quickly because they had strong competition or they simply didn’t feel safe where they were eating their meals.

Slow feeding bowls are a great way to help minimize this behavior. Over time your cat should adjust to understanding that they no longer need to worry about their food being stolen and there will be plenty to go around.

This video from Dr. Karen Becker is also very helpful in describing a wide variety of other reasons that cats may vomit. If from reading this article it doesn’t sound like gobbling is the problem then watch the video:

Back to the Quick Guide

What Types of Slow Feeders Are There?

There are a couple of different types of slow feeders on the market. Each one has benefits and drawbacks, so we’ll briefly outline them here so you get a feel for which one might be right for your situation.

Traditional Stationary Hard Plastic

The traditional hard plastic option is going to resemble a cat bowl quite closely. The key difference you’ll note is that it’ll have lots of ridges or barriers built into the middle of the bowl.

These are there to stop your cat from simply jamming his face into the bowl and wolfing down all of the feed as quickly as possible. The idea is your cat will have to move food with his paws to get it where he can access it.

The biggest benefits of these types of slow feeders is that they are typically durable, easy to clean, and come in at a very low price point. On top of this you’ll usually find they have lots of little features after years of development to make them easy for owners to use too (think anti skid feet for example).

Soft Rubber or Silicone Feeders

Soft rubber and silicone versions are typically going to have a flat base with a lot of things sticking straight up out of the base. The shapes and sizes may vary, but more often than not they resemble a small patch of tree trunks glued to a rubber base.

The key difference here is that they are flexible whereas a hard bowl is not. Hard bowls generally require the cat to directly move the food with this paws.

Softer feeders allow for this but also enable your cat to sneak between them with just his face. They’re also generally speaking easier to get wet food out of as you can bend them easily to scrub or spray them.

Ceramic Bowls and Feeders

Ceramic slow feeders are going to heavily resemble both hard and soft feeders, they’ll just be made of ceramic instead.

The key reason you’d want to consider ceramics is that they are not a porous material. This basically means it is difficult for bacteria to take hold and develop, especially if you wash the feeder in hot water like a dish washer frequently.

Ceramics are also quite heavy in comparison to standard plastic which gives them extra weight to stay in place if you’ve got a rather rambunctious cat.

Stainless Steel Options

Similar to ceramic options, stainless options are going to resemble those of hard plastic feeders for the most part. There aren’t many stainless options on the market at the moment.

Stainless steel is super lightweight and very difficult to break, it is also a non porous material like ceramic so it is very easy to clean effectively.

If you are set on stainless steel your best option may be to buy a traditional stainless steel cat bowl and simply flip it over and use the bottom instead of the top as the bowl.

Puzzle Driven Feeders / Activity Centers

Puzzles are a good option as well, but I’d personally categorize them as a different type of feeder for a different purpose. That purpose is usually to make a regular cat work for their food either because they have too much energy or they simply need to lose weight.

You can read more about them in the next section for alternatives.

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Are There Alternatives To Slow Feeding Bowls?

If you’ve tried a slow feeding bowl or think your cat(s) will not do well with it then there are other options you can try. If you have only one cat with this issue then try multiple small meals. If you’ve got multiple cats there are several options you can try.

Single Cats: Multiple Small Meals

Spreading meals out is the best option if you’ve got a lone cat that still eats far too quickly and the slow feeding bowl doesn’t seem like a viable option.

You’ll want to provide several more meals a day but do so in much smaller portion sizes. The key concern with this method is that it is time consuming and you may not be available to provide multiple meals.

Given this one of the easiest ways to accomplish this is through using automatic cat food dispensers. These dispensers can drop very small amounts of food multiple times a day so your cat can’t gobble enough to get sick.

Several of the feeders will even allow you to manually drop food whenever you want from a mobile phone application. On top of this you can combine this with a slow feeding bowl so the dry food drops into a slow feeding bowl in very small portions.

Multi Cats: Feeding Separately

Feed your cats in separate areas of the house or in separate rooms with completely closed doors. Closed doors are a necessity for this to ensure it works properly, otherwise the fast eating cat will 

If you give your cat about 30 minutes to eat on his own before opening the doors back up that is typically sufficient to ensure that your gobbling cat won’t be able to cause a ruckus and chow the extra food down.

One additional consideration is an item called a SureFeed Microchip cat feeder. These work particularly well in multi cat households because they can secure the food for each cat with microchip access.

Basically, you can put smaller portions out for your gobbler and regular ones for your non gobbler, but the microchip in your cat’s neck will stop your gobbler from getting into the other cat’s food!

For more detailed information on other reasons cats might vomit check out this great article from Dr. Karen Becker.

Back to the Quick Guide

What About Food Puzzles?

Food puzzles are a great alternative consideration to slow feeders.  They are designed quite a bit differently though and may not serve the exact same purpose.

Food puzzles are usually designed to make your cat think and waste energy while eating. This means they often require a sharp and active cat and they may require some more thinking from your side as well to get them prepared.

On top of this many of the more basic food puzzles can leave a mess of kibble behind all over the house if your cat isn’t a very dedicated eater. This is because they are often balls filled with food that dumps out as your kitty plays with it.

Slow feeders have the single goal of dragging out how long it takes your kitty to finish a meal. If your key goal is to stop vomiting from eating too quickly then I’d recommend trying a slow feeder bowl first.

If however you’re looking to also entertain your cat and provide some mental stimulation then a food puzzle can be a great choice to consider.

Back to the Quick Guide

Are Slow Feeders Good for Weight Loss?

While a slow feeder is primarily geared toward helping your cat slow down their consumption, most of them are not specifically designed to do the one key thing that helps cats lose weight.

On the bright side a slow feeder will usually give cats that eat too much a feeling that they are full sooner than if they simply gulp down all their food quickly. This works the same way with humans.

The slower you eat the more likely your body is to tell you that you’re full before you finish a meal.

But there are two words a slow feeder can’t account for.

Portion control.

If you do not control the portions of food you feed your cat then a slow feeder may force them to burn a few extra calories while eating, but it will usually not do enough to help them lose significant weight.

Controlling the amount of food your cat eats is by far the best method for helping your kitty lose weight if they are overweight. A slow feeder can only do this if you decide to control the amount of food added.

It is also important to remember that if your cat needs to lose weight it should be a gradual process. You shouldn’t start cutting their portions in half immediately, instead you’ll need to gradually slim them down.

You can read more on PetMD for details on slow feeders and weight loss for cats.

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DIY Slow Feeding Bowls For Cats

Although slow feeder bowls are quite cheap these days (usually less than ten dollars), there are of course ways to get yourself a slow feeder at even less cost if you’re willing to work a bit!

One option that is pretty straight forward is to simply use a baking sheet designed to make muffins. Spread out your cat’s food in each of the muffin sections and let them slowly paw it out.

Another method I’ve seen people use to create their own slow feeder is to buy both a glass bowl and a glass and simply glue the glass to the base of the bowl on the inside.

An example of a do it yourself DIY slow feeder for cats

You’ll need to choose a bowl with a flat bottom and a cup that fits close to the sides of the bowl so that your cat will basically need to paw the food out of the bowl as they eat.

Do note there are some drawbacks to this method:

  • You’ll need to do all the work yourself
  • You’ll need to find non toxic glue
  • The glue won’t hold up in a dish washer

Given the low cost of slow feeders I’d recommend simply purchasing one that is dishwasher safe for the additional safety provided from being able to wash and disinfect it easily.

Back to the Quick Guide

Wrapping It Up on Slow Feeders

If you’ve got a feline that is constantly vomiting from eating too quickly then one of the best slow feeding bowls for cats is a great option to consider. 

The behavior that causes gobbling could just be a personality trait or it could be based on life experience. You’ll want to take this into account to determine the best solution.

If you manage to slow your cat’s eating down and they are still vomiting then you’ll want to get your kitty to the vet straight away and get them checked out. Constant vomiting is not “normal” cat behavior and you should ensure there isn’t something else causing it!

If you have any experience with your own cats and methods for slowing down their eating or minimizing how much they vomit then please share them in the comments below!

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a cat licking itself and text that says the best cat wipes

Ultimate Guide to the Best Cat Wipes of 2021 [For Any Need]

Many people consider cats to be 100% self sufficient and assume that they never need any help. 

But the reality is cats can often use help cleaning up and wipes are often the best option to help.

Below you’ll find the best cat wipes of 2021 categorized by the reason for use.

So pop open the quick guide or scroll on down to find exactly what you need!

Table of Contents

The Best Cat Wipes

Pogi’s Feline Grooming Wipes

If you’re looking for a great general wipe then Pogi’s has you covered with their grooming wipes. Not only are they incredibly environmentally friendly, but they also do a wonderful job. They are made from bamboo so they’ll help keep land fills free of wipes by quickly breaking down.

Pogi’s also produces two different scents which is great for folks who have an extra sensitive cat. The two main options are green tea scented and unscented. 

A few other key features worth noting:

  • 100% earth friendly since the wipes are bamboo based and easily biodegrade
  • Includes Aloe Vera, Vitamin E, and Hawaiian Awapuhi to help clean, freshen and condition while giving the coat a healthy shine
  • The wipes are quite large at 8 x 9, they’ll easily help you clean even a big Maine Coon
  • The product is completely free of parabens, alcohol, fragrances, chlorine, and harsh chemicals
  • Come in various pack sizes depending on your needs: 100, 240 and 400

“These have worked great for my poor kitties that are suffering from a bit of diarrhea. No irritation even when used right on their sensitive behinds.”

They key item worth noting on these wipes:

  • Not formulated for the eyes so don’t use it around the eyes

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Veterinary Sciences Butt Wipes

Dirty butt? Clean it up with Veterinary Sciences Butt Wipes for cats! These are specially formulated to be safe and effective at cleaning up your cat’s behind when it gets a little too dirty for your liking.

Cats can easily end up with a dirty butt for many reasons, but the most common reasons are definitely age and weight. Age tends to result in arthritis which can make it hard for your feline friend to turn and reach their butt. Obesity in cats does the same thing, it makes the rear end unreachable.

These wipes will make it easy for you to clean up your cat’s behind so they are both smelling and feeling good. And of course so they won’t leave stains all over your furniture too.

A few other key items worth noting on these wipes:

  • These wipes are designed to be soft and gentle so they can be used daily with no issue
  • Each wipe comes with Vitamin A, Vitamin E and soothing Ale Vera for extra comfort
  • They are 100% alcohol free to ensure they won’t irritate your cat’s butt
  • The package comes with 30 wipes and each wipe is about 5 x 8 inches

“My cat is a fat cat to say the least. We adopted him from a shelter when he was already 20 pounds, and although he’s losing weight (down to 18!) we needed a way to help him clean his butt. These work like a charm and we’ve seen no irritation at all even after days of repeated use.”

The only key item worth noting on these wipes is:

  • These wipes do have a slight scent to them that your cat may not enjoy

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Burt’s Bees Dander Reducing Wipes

Burt’s Bees is primarily known for their products that serve us humans. They make pretty much every moisturizer known to man and they do a great job at it. I use their lip balm and cuticle cream every winter!

But in this case they are going for helping your kitty if he or she has a bit (or a lot) of dandruff surfacing in her coat or even a red irritated bit of skin somewhere on her body. And while a HEPA air purifier will help full some of that extra dander out of the air, these special wipes will help address the problem at the site!

You’ll want to know about all these great features too:

  • They moisturize and deeply condition your cat’s dry skin to reduce redness and flakes
  • Aloe Vera and Oatmeal help reduce inflammation to decrease dandruff
  • The formula is vet recommended and free of fragrances, sulfates, colorants, and harsh chemicals
  • These wipes are suitable for cats of all ages, the pH balance makes them great for kittens too
  • Perfect for cleaning your cat’s dirty paws or a dirty spot on her coat from venturing outside
  • Come in a soft pack of 50, but you can buy in multiples of 1 to 6 if you need lots

“These do a great job for my kitty with a bit of dandruff. The wipe is pretty neutral scent wise and the dampness helps pick up all the dandruff and some loose fur too. It helps that there are no harsh chemicals in it too!”

You’ll want to consider the following before purchasing:

  • These wipes should only be used from the back of the ears to the tail, they are not designed for the eyes or the butt

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PetMD Antiseptic Wipes

These wipes are specially formulated to help you and your kitty fight off a bacterial or fungal infection of some kind. If your cat has a skin problem or even a small cut these are the perfect option for disinfecting it!

In some cases these are even sufficient for treating a breakout of ringworm on your cat. You’ll definitely want to check with your vet to see if this is sufficient or if a full body dip is a better choice, but worth mentioning for sure!!

And you know with the Pet MD logo on them they are the best out there. You’ll want to keep these items in mind too:

  • A gentle antiseptic, antibacterial and antifungal solution for managing cat skin issues like acne
  • The formula easily kills the bacteria and yeast most associated with skin infections in cats
  • They are premoistened to deodorize the skin while relieving hot spots, acne & insect bites
  • Made in the USA in small batches in regulated facilities to ensure the highest quality

“After only two weeks these are making a huge dent in the acne King Odin has. He is looking much healthier and happier than he was, even though he still doesn’t love me wiping his face. He tolerates it well enough, he seems to understand it is helping.”

The biggest complaint people have with these wipes is:

  • They are far too small for a cat of any size and are primarily good for spot cleaning

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SofiesSecret XL All in One Wipes

If you’re looking for an alternative to bathing your cat then SofiesSecret has you covered with their amazing 100% natural ingredient based wipes. Only the best natural ingredients are included so they can be used anywhere on your kitty for a full bathing experience.

Beyond making an excellent product, SofiesSecret cares about your well being, the environment and our furry friends. This product is cruelty free, SofiesSecret is PETA approved, Green America and Leaping Bunny certified. Quite a list of accolades! 

You’ll also want to know the following about these wipes:

  • Use it all over your cat, these wipes are safe to use on paws, coat, face, ears, skin and teeth
  • These wipes are infused with natural ingredients and extracts that protect & nourish your cat
  • Made with only natural ingredients and extracts like chamomile, ginkgo biloba leaf, green tea, aloe vera, cinnamon oil, sesame seed oil and lemongrass oil
  • They are unscented and hypoallergenic, deodorizing and fragrance free
  • The natural oils, help prevent fleas and ticks from jumping on top of your fluffy friend too
  • To minimize waste they also sell refills for the plastic tub included in your initial purchase

“Bennie is a long hair and is super sensitive to anything on his skin. These have worked wonders when stuff gets stuck in the hair around his rear end and they haven’t caused a single reaction yet!”

It is worth noting the following before purchase:

  • There are three scents available depending on the size of the package you buy, be sure you aim for unscented with your cat for the best results

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Petpost Ear Cleaning Wipes for Cats

If you’ve got a kitty that just can’t seem to keep his ears clean then these wipes will help remedy that problem in no time! If you’re not sure why you’d want to do that, the answer is simple.

Debris and gunk in your cat’s ears can easily lead to ear mites which cause massive irritation and can cause all sorts of longer term health problems for your cat if left alone.  

These wipes will easily wipe away the waxy build up and any other gunk that finds its way into your cat’s ears!

A few things worth noting about this product:

  • The formula blasts away wax and debris ear mites love for a happier cat with clean earsThe special solution is plant-based and contains the highest quality coconut oil and aloe 
  • There are no harsh chemical medications, pesticides, or irritants that will bother your cat
  • PetPost uses all natural ingredients, recyclable packaging, and eco-friendly natural cotton pads
  • No longer will you have to measuring medication and spill solution, these pads make it easy

“My cat is old and set in her ways. She hates having her ears and her tail touched. When I saw she was getting build up in her ears I decided to try these out. Although she didn’t love me touching her ears they are now clean and clear and she didn’t even claw me!”

It is worth noting the following on using this product optimally:

  • You’ll need to squeeze extra solution out of the pads before you use them, they typically come over saturated and using too much solution can cause irritation

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Nature’s Miracle Deodorizing Wipes

Nature’s Miracle makes a truck load of excellent products for cats and dogs. These deodorizing wipes are great for quick clean ups between bathing or even good to replace bathing if your cat sill largely grooms herself!!

The alcohol free formula is mild enough for everyday use and it will safely remove dirt, dander and odors that may be stuck in your cat’s fur. These wipes are enriched with moisturizing conditioners to leave skin and coat healthy and shiny. 

A few other things worth noting about these wipes:

  • The formula is alcohol free to minimize irritation and ensure you can use it daily
  • The wipes have moisturizing conditioners leave your cat’s coat with a healthy shine
  • There are two pack sizes, 100 or 200 wipes, and each wipe is 8 inches by 7 inches
  • The wipes have a honey sage scent you are sure to love

“These work great on both my cats and my dogs. They always smell so nice afterward. I was worried at first because of the scent, but I figured I could always use them on my dog if the cats hated it. They seem to approve with all their paws though!”

You’ll definitely want to consider the following before purchase:

  • This is a scented wipe, if you have a cat that is averse to new scents avoid this option

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Well & Good Cat Eye Wipes

If your cat tends to develop a lot of goop around her eyes, like my cat Beastling does, then these are the perfect option for you. They are specially designed to be used right around the eyes and not cause any irritation or redness.

It is important to clean up gunk and goop around your cat’s eyes to keep them from getting infected or otherwise irritated and these are the best option for the job.

Do keep in mind you still don’t want to touch the actual eye with these pads as it can cause irritation!

A few other things worth noting about these:

  • The formula cleans dust, debris & set in tear stains around your cat’s eyes
  • The solution is non toxic so it treats your cat’s skin gently and painlessly
  • These wipes are fragrance free so your cat will not balk at any new scents near the face
  • There are 100 wipes in the package and usually one wipe gets the job done on both eyes

“Jackson purrs and closes his eyes when I wipe his face with these. That’s the only approval I need, he clearly loves it. And I love it too, no more nasty black goop around the eyes!”

It is worth considering the following before purchasing these:

  • You won’t want to use these as bath replacements like many of the other more general wipes, they don’t include the moisturizers and conditioners to help promote a healthy coat

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Feliway Calming Cat Wipes

If you have a feline friend that is very easily stressed out by situations like travel then these Feliway Wipes can be a huge perk.

Feliway is traditionally used through a special diffuser that you plug into the wall, but these wipes modify that process to make them immediately usable.

Simply pop open the package and wipe your kitty carrier down with this Feliway Wipe to help calm and comfort them. The primary use is definitely travel related, but you can use them for any potentially stressful situation.

A few other things worth noting about these Feliway Wipes:

  • Great for calming and comforting traveling cats, simply wipe down the carrier and bedding
  • Each package comes with 12 wipes (the image is of 1 of the 12 wipes)
  • One Feliway wipe is plenty to wipe down an entire carrier and calm down your kitty
  • They use a synthetic pheromone that makes your cat feel extra calm and relaxed

“After a big move my cats were not adjusting well to the new home. After trying everything I could think of I decided to give these wipes a shot. Half a dozen wipes later and a little work running them along my furniture and my cats are finally settled in!”

It is worth noting the following before purchasing:

  • You should absolutely NOT use these directly on your cat, they are made to be used on surfaces your cat will lay near or directly on like a carrier or beddin

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Bodhi Cat Paw Wipes

If you’ve got a cat that loves the outdoors, but you hate all of the dirt and junk that they track into the house then these are the wipes for you. Specially formulated just for pet paws these are the perfect addition to any house with indoor/outdoor cats!

An automated robot vacuum will help pick up some of the dirt and a cat door will help control indoor and outdoor access, but if you truly want to let your cat be free these wipes make it easy!

A few other items worth noting about these wipes:

  • Instantly removes stinky smells by going after the source: bacteria, terms, dirt and dander
  • Wipes are 100% hypoallergenic and moistened with high quality cleaning agents including organic aloe vera leaf extract, organic chamomile and lavender oil
  • Each wipe is made with 100% premium cotton to ensure it is sustainable and durable
  • Although specially designed for paws they are great for face, nose, mouth, ears and hips too
  • Each canister comes with 60 thick and durable clothes that are 7 by 8 inches each

“My cat Pater is absolutely against baths. The second I even think about it he is gone and hiding under the bed where I can’t get to him. These wipes have done an excellent job, especially since he loves exploring the woods behind our house.”

It is worth noting the following before purchasing:

  • The wipes are a little fragile and easily rip and tear if they get caught on your cat’s nails

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Pet Naturals Flea & Tick Wipes

Anyone with an outdoor cat has tons of extra things to consider compared to people with full on indoor cats. They usually need a collar for safety and they might even have a GPS tracker to find them in case they get lost!

But beyond being able to find your kitty you’ll also want to ensure they have proper flea and tick control. Without it they can easily get incredibly sick, potentially even fatally if ticks get ahold of them and you don’t find it quickly enough!

These wipes are specially designed to help deter fleas and ticks:

  • A natural, touchable and pleasant smelling alternative to flea and tick management instead of chemically based options applied to your cat’s coat
  • These wipes use natural Brazilian oils to prevent fleas, ticks, mosquitoes and flies from detecting the scent that attracts the insects to your pet
  • Easily wipe down difficult to reach places like armpits where fleas and ticks are prone to hdie
  • The wipes can be directly applied to beds, collars, leashes and harnesses as well for extra coverage
  • There is no oily residue left behind and you can touch your pet immediately after use

“These have done a great job of helping minimize flea infestations on my Fonzie. He loves the outdoors, especially in new areas to explore. These are easy to travel with too which is an added bonus.”

One key item worth noting before purchasing these wipes:

  • The wipes aren’t nearly as long lasting as traditional flea medicine or collars

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Additional Information

What Kinds of Wipes Are there?

You may have thought that there are only wipes out there for cleaning up a dirty spot in your cat’s fur, but there are surprisingly wipes out there for pretty much everything you can think of including flea and tick control.

All In One Cleansing Wipes

Most wipes are dedicated to cleaning for one purpose or another. It could be cleaning a specific body part or it might be focused on cleaning up dander or wiping away stray hair.  All in one wipes are designed to be used pretty much anywhere on your cat and for any cleaning purpose.

Note that they won’t be much help from a behavior standpoint or for repelling insects.

Butt / Tush Wipes

These wipes are specifically designed to help you clean up a mess around your kitty’s rear end.  If you have a cat that has to wear diapers due to a medical reason or age then these are a great option.

They also do a wonderful job of simply  helping you clean up your cat’s butt end if they don’t seem to do it themselves for whatever reason. The most common reasons for a cat not cleaning their butt are weight and arthritis.

Eye Wipes

Some cats simply have a lot of good that drains out of their eyes. My cat Beastling isn’t sick on a consistent basis, but her eyes tend to produce a lot more stuff that sticks to the edges of her eyes than another other healthy cat I’ve met.

Eye wipes are a great and safe way to clean away the gook without irritating your cat’s eyes in the process.

Ear Wipes

Cats can’t really clean their own ears easily. If they go outside they are prone to get a lot of extra dirt and debris floating around and it can end up in their ears making them filthy.

It can also lead to ear mites being more easily missed because you’re used to seeing dark spots on your cat.

Ear wipes are specially formulated to help you safely clean your cat’s ears and wipe away any of the waxy or nasty buildup that can occur in and around them.

Dander Wipes

Some kitties have a tougher time than others controlling their dander. And while cats have all sorts of shampoos out there to help them control dander it is a heck of a lot easier to use and apply a wipe than it is to give most cats a bath of any form.

On top of these dander wipes are a heck of a lot more mobile than a bath tub so you can easily apply them on a consistent basis.  

It is also worth noting that if your cat is having dandruff you may want to consider brushing them on a daily basis to help spread natural oils through their fur which can help prevent dander.

Paw Wipes

Does your kitty go outside?  When they do they love to roam and they are amazing at finding their way into hard to reach spots where we humans can’t follow.

In the process their little paws get dirty and track all sorts of fun dirt and leaves and such into the house.

Paw wipes are designed with this in mind. They are gentle but also extra durable to make it easy to give your cat’s paws a nice deep clean when they come in from a romp outside!

Flea, Tick & Mosquito Repellent Wipes

Any indoor/outdoor cat that heads out into the wilderness on a common basis probably has their own cool cat door and they probably need protection from all the insects prowling the fields and trees.

Cats can of course use specific collars to help combat insects, but when you’ve got a cat that can’t stand a collar then sometimes a wipe can do a better job than no protection at all! 

Behavior Relaxing Wipes

If you’re not familiar with Feliway then it is worth reading up on it a little bit. The general idea is that it is a synthetic pheromone that will help your cat feel calm and comfortable.

Feliway is traditionally applied using a diffuser that can take hours or even days to have an impact because it needs to permeate the entire room.  

The wipes skip this process and directly apply the pheromone directly to your kitty for immediate assistance!

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What Features Should I Consider?

Wipes, no matter their purpose, have a few general features you should consider before you make a purchase. Depending on what you need your wipe for you’ll need to prioritize different factors.

Material

Wipes for pets can be made of a wide variety of materials, but you’ll want to find one that can be both durable and soft.  More often than not you’ll find them made of things like hemp or bamboo fibers that are also a renewable resource which is a huge perk if you need them often.

You’ll also find a lot of wipes out there specifically called Natural Cat Wipes. Natural cat wipes indicate that nothing in the wipe was processed or made, all of the items naturally occur in nature and they’ve simply been combined. 

Size

If you’ve got a regular old house cat that’s somewhere between 8 and 15 pounds then most of these wipes will get the job done from a size standpoint.

If on the other hand you’ve got a Maine Coon that goes outdoors or has an issue with a dirty butt then you’ll definitely want to look for extra large sized wipes to ensure you don’t need to use multiples each time!

Durability

Most wipes these days are designed specifically to be quite durable, but you’ll definitely want to lean toward extra durable wipes if you’re doing something like cleaning dried gunk off your cat’s butt or paws.

If you get a wipe that isn’t durable it can easily tear or get stuck in around sensitive areas which will likely cause your cat to run any time they see you with a wipe!

Packaging

Wipes come in a bunch of different packages. If you’re going to be using them on a more consistent basis you can consider pretty much any kind of package out there as you don’t need to worry about them drying out.

If on the other hand wipes seem to be something you only need once in a while then I’d recommend aiming for one of the solid plastic cylindrical containers that have a complete seal on the top of them. 

This type of seal ensures that you won’t run into issues that are more common with your traditional soft and flexible packaging that is most common with baby wipes.

These types of packages often don’t seal very well and the wipes will dry out over a few weeks.

Hypoallergenic Wipes

Most wipes for cats are designed with the absolute minimum number of ingredients already, but if you’ve got a cat that has extra sensitive skin then you may need to consider looking for hypoallergenic wipes.

These wipes will be made of special materials and use ingredients that are least likely to cause an allergic reaction in your cat. You’ll often find that natural cat wipes tend to be hypoallergenic.

Antibacterial / Antiseptic

Some wipes are specifically designed to kill of bacteria using a variation of chlorine. These are most commonly used for cats (and dogs) that run into bacterial or fungal skin infections.

They can also help kill off ringworm, though a full body ‘dip’ is widely considered the most effective treatment for ringworm by veterinarians and shelters.

Not only are they far easier than bathing your cat on a consistent basis, they tend to be a heck of a lot more convenient from a time perspective as well.

Clearly this type of wipe should stay away from places like your cats eyes.

Additives

You’ll want to take a close look at any of the additives that have been put in the wipes you are considering. With cats it is especially important to consider the scents that may be added to wipes.

Cats are incredibly sensitive to different scents and smells and a wipe with an additive for scent can make them very uncomfortable and ensure that every time they see a wipe they run for the hills.

Earth Friendliness

To say the least wipes can be far worse for the environment than something like traditional toilet paper. They are also generally things that shouldn’t be flushed down the toilet no matter what they say on the package.

Given this it is important to look for wipes that are made of renewable and biodegradable resources. In this case you’re typically looking for a wipe that is made of something like bamboo or hemp to ensure it will naturally decompose in a landfill.

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Can Wipes Be An Alternative to Bathing?

Wipes can certainly be a alternative to baths, but they might not give you the same level of cleaning or the same effect as an actual bath. It will completely depend on the purpose of the bath.

If you’re just trying to give your kitty a good cleaning then the wipes are probably an equivalent that will mostly get the job done.

If you’re also just cleaning your cat’s paws or maybe wiping their ears or their eyes for preventative purposes then they are a great option in place of a full on bath. 

If however you have a different reason for bathing, like extremely matted fur around your cat’s butt, then a wipe probably won’t solve this type of problem. A butt bath is typically more effective.

Wipes are also not a successful alternative to dealing with fleas if your cat already has them. A full on bath with flea shampoo is going to be far more successful than a short wiping session.

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How Do I Use The Wipes?

If you’re not clear on how to use a wipe to clean your cat then this video can give you a little bit of help. It’ll show you how to help groom cats that commonly like to roll in dirt outside.

Note that in the video he is using a Furminator and also the EarthBath Cat Wipes which are widely considered one of the best wipes around (and one of my number one selections).

If you’re looking for some help on how to clean a cat’s butt then you can check out this video which is incredibly useful for anyone that’s never done this before. A few things worth noting in advance:

  • In this video he is simply using a rag and water instead of a formulated cat wipe
  • He has the calmest cat ever when the hair dryer turns on, mine run for the hills
  • This video has some vulgar language used in it before you open it up

For more specialized help in how to leverage cat wipes for cleaning your cats eyes or ears you should definitely consult your veterinarian, but this video may also come in handy for eyes in particular:

Your vet can also help you select the most appropriate wipes for your cat’s unique situation if you’re not quite sure what to do!

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Do It Yourself Cat Wipes

You can of course make your own do it yourself cat wipes, but depending on what you need them for this may or may not be very successful.  in particular you can easily do this for general grooming purposes, especially for things like cleaning your cat’s paws.

I would highly recommend you do not attempt to make your own antibacterial or specialized cleaning pads. If you can’t afford traditional cleaning wipes or you simply don’t want to waste them then you can usually use a clean wash cloth with just plan old clean water for most purposes.

If you’re interested in making your own paw cleaning wipes though check out this video from My Furry Family:

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Can I Use Baby Wipes?

You should not use baby wipes or even wipes formulated for adult humans on a cat.  These wipes often have chemicals or additives that can easily irritate your cat’s skin.

The most common type of additive you’ll find in wipes for humans is that they are scented. Cats generally speaking don’t like foreign scents or smells being near them and dislike them being applied even more.

Even if you have unscented wipes made for humans you probably shouldn’t use these wipes on your feline friend unless you first consult your veterinarian to ensure they won’t cause any reactions.

I’d also highly recommend that if you do decide to try one out that you try it in a very small area first and give it a few minutes or hours to determine whether or not there is a reaction. If you do see any immediate reaction definitely get your cat to the vet immediately for assessment and treatment.

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Can I Use Makeup Wipes?

While makeup removal wipes have certainly changed in the past few years, they are still formulated for humans instead of for cats. You should not use makeup wipes to clean your cat.

If you do decide to use one you run the risk of significantly irritating your cat wherever you decide to apply the wipe.

If you have no other wipes and you’ve got an emergency on hand I’d highly recommend simply using a damp cloth and regular old water.

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What About Soap and Water?

Soap and water may sound like a great and easily accessible alternative, but you’ll want to be very careful with any cleaning or disinfecting products around your cat.

Most household soaps have been designed to work well around human skin and not cause irritation, but that’s not true for cats and dogs.

While you can absolutely use a soft damp cloth to help clean you’ll probably want to avoid any use of traditional hand or dish soap. It is likely to cause irritation, especially if it is used consistently.

Be sure to wash any cloths you use immediately, especially if you use them on your cat’s behind. No surprise, there is a significant amount of bacteria there and you wouldn’t want to inadvertently spread it.

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Wrap Up on the Best Cat Wipes 2020

You might have been surprised to learn there are so many different kinds of wipes out there for cats!  As more and more research surfaces about cats we’ll continue to see more specialized products.

Most cat wipes are designed for cleaning one body part or another and then there are a few other key types for behavioral modification and for insect control.  

Most of the body part related wipes have limited differences, but just like with drugs for humans you’re better off only using wipes for their intended purpose.

If you have any questions about the best wipes for cats please leave a comment below and I’ll do my best to address it as quickly as possible!

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