Discover: Best Cat Toys 2017 to Keep Your Kitty Entertained

Remember 2017? I sure do. It was a simpler time, filled with fidget spinners and, more importantly, a whole new generation of cat toys! We're taking a trip down memory lane to explore the absolute best cat toys 2017 had to offer. Forget the latest gadgets; we're talking about the classics, the trends, and the toys that truly captured our feline friends' hearts (and claws). I'll walk you through the top contenders, from the catnip-infused favorites to the interactive puzzles that promised to banish boredom. Was it all just hype, or did these toys genuinely make our cats happier? I'll also explore whether DIY options could compete with store-bought sensations. Plus, a little update on where those toys are now – still loved, lost under the sofa, or relegated to the pet supply graveyard? Let's get started!

Top Cat Toys of 2017: What Made Cats Go Crazy?

The Catnip Craze: 2017's Addictive Toys

Catnip: the magical herb that turns even the most dignified feline into a purring, rolling maniac. In 2017, catnip-infused toys were all the rage, and for good reason. Think plush mice packed with potent nip, crinkle balls dusted with the green stuff, and even scratching posts with hidden catnip compartments. These toys tapped into a cat's natural instincts, providing a burst of energy, playfulness, and sheer joy. The question wasn't *if* your cat liked catnip, but *how much* they liked it. And toy manufacturers were more than happy to oblige with increasingly creative and potent delivery methods.

I remember one particular toy, a banana-shaped plush filled to the brim with catnip. My cat, Mittens, usually a creature of refined tastes, went absolutely bonkers for it. She wrestled it, bunny-kicked it, and even drooled on it – a testament to the power of good catnip! It was clear that in 2017, catnip was king, and any toy that incorporated it had a serious advantage.

Interactive Puzzles: Brain Games for Bored Kitties

Beyond the blissful haze of catnip, 2017 also saw a rise in interactive cat toys. These weren't your average batting-around-a-ball toys. These were puzzles designed to challenge a cat's intellect, stimulate their hunting instincts, and keep them entertained for hours. We are talking treat-dispensing balls, puzzle boxes with hidden compartments, and even electronic mice that darted around unpredictably. The idea was to make cats *work* for their rewards, tapping into their natural problem-solving abilities.

These toys were a godsend for indoor cats, providing mental stimulation and preventing boredom-related behaviors like destructive scratching or excessive meowing. It was like giving your cat a mini-job, a chance to earn their keep (even though they weren't paying rent anyway). Did they always solve the puzzles? Of course not. But the challenge itself was enough to keep them engaged and entertained.

"Cats are natural hunters," says Dr. Whiskers, a feline behaviorist. "Interactive toys allow them to express these instincts in a safe and stimulating way, improving their overall well-being."

Laser Pointers: The Controversial Chase

Ah, the laser pointer: a source of endless entertainment for humans, and perhaps a source of endless frustration for cats. In 2017, these little red dots were still a popular choice for playtime, offering a high-energy chase experience with minimal effort on the owner's part. Cats would stalk, pounce, and leap after the elusive dot, their hunting instincts in full swing. However, the laser pointer also sparked debate among cat owners and experts alike.

The main concern? The lack of a tangible reward. Unlike hunting a real mouse or even a toy, the laser pointer offered no satisfying conclusion. Cats could chase the dot endlessly, but they would never actually catch anything, potentially leading to frustration and anxiety. Some experts recommended ending laser pointer sessions with a tangible reward, like a treat or a toy, to provide a sense of completion. Others advised against using laser pointers altogether, suggesting alternative toys that offered a more fulfilling play experience.

The Pros and Cons of Laser Pointers:

• Pros: High-energy exercise, easy for owners, stimulates hunting instincts.
• Cons: No tangible reward, potential for frustration, can be dangerous if shined in eyes.

DIY Cat Toys vs. StoreBought: 2017's Great Debate

Crafty Cats: The Rise of DIY Toys in 2017

2017 wasn't just about fancy store-bought toys. It was also the year of the DIY cat toy revolution! Fueled by Pinterest boards and a desire to save money (and maybe a touch of crafting pride), cat owners everywhere were getting their glue guns and felt scraps ready. From simple sock toys filled with catnip to elaborate cardboard castles, the possibilities were endless.

The beauty of DIY cat toys was their customizability. You could tailor them to your cat's specific preferences, using their favorite materials, scents, and textures. Plus, you knew exactly what was going into them, avoiding any potentially harmful chemicals or materials found in mass-produced toys. It was a win-win situation: happy cat, happy owner, and a clear conscience.

I remember trying to make a catnip-filled sock toy for Mittens. Let's just say my sewing skills are not exactly top-notch. The result was a lumpy, misshapen creation that looked more like a sad potato than a toy. But Mittens didn't seem to mind. She loved it anyway, proving that sometimes, the effort and love you put into a toy are more important than its aesthetic appeal.

The Allure of the Aisle: Store-Bought Toys' Advantages

Despite the DIY craze, store-bought cat toys still held their own in 2017. They offered convenience, durability, and a level of sophistication that homemade toys often lacked. We are talking electronic toys with pre-programmed movements, plush toys made with high-quality materials, and puzzle toys designed by experts in feline behavior. For busy cat owners, the allure of simply grabbing a toy off the shelf was undeniable.

Store-bought toys also underwent rigorous safety testing, ensuring they met certain standards for non-toxicity and durability. This was especially important for aggressive chewers who could easily tear apart a poorly made toy and ingest potentially harmful materials. While DIY toys offered customization, store-bought toys offered peace of mind.

"When choosing a cat toy, safety should always be your top priority," advises Whiskers & Co., a popular pet blog in 2017. "Look for toys made from non-toxic materials and avoid anything with small parts that could be easily swallowed."

Store-Bought vs. DIY: A Quick Comparison

• Store-Bought: Convenient, durable, safety-tested, wider variety.
• DIY: Customizable, cost-effective, control over materials, personal touch.

The Verdict: Which Type Reigned Supreme in 2017?

So, which type of cat toy – DIY or store-bought – reigned supreme in 2017? The truth is, there was no clear winner. Both had their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice ultimately depended on the individual cat and owner. Some cats preferred the simple, homemade charm of a sock toy, while others were more impressed by the bells and whistles of an electronic gadget.

Ultimately, 2017 was a great year for cat toys, regardless of whether they were made with love at home or purchased from a store. The key was to provide cats with a variety of toys to keep them entertained, stimulated, and happy. And, of course, to shower them with plenty of love and affection, because that's what they really wanted all along.

Catnip, Feathers, and Lasers: The 2017 Cat Toy Trends

The Enduring Appeal of Catnip

Catnip wasn't just a trend in 2017; it was a full-blown phenomenon. It seemed like every toy manufacturer was trying to outdo the others with increasingly potent and creative catnip concoctions. We saw catnip-infused bubbles, catnip-stuffed bananas, and even catnip-scented scratching posts. The goal was simple: to create the ultimate feline bliss.

But what made catnip so irresistible to cats? It all comes down to nepetalactone, a chemical compound found in the catnip plant. When cats inhale nepetalactone, it triggers a response in their brains that mimics the effects of feline pheromones, leading to feelings of euphoria and playfulness. Some cats become hyperactive, while others become mellow and cuddly. It's like a feline mood ring, reflecting their individual personalities.

Not all cats are affected by catnip, though. About 20-30% of cats have a genetic predisposition that makes them immune to its effects. But for those who are susceptible, catnip can be a powerful tool for encouraging play, reducing stress, and even training. Just be prepared for the inevitable catnip crash afterwards!

Feather Frenzy: Toys That Tapped into Hunting Instincts

Feathers have always been a classic cat toy, but in 2017, they experienced a major resurgence. Toy manufacturers got creative with their feather designs, incorporating them into wands, teasers, and even automated toys. The fluttering, unpredictable movement of feathers perfectly mimicked the movements of prey, triggering a cat's natural hunting instincts.

These toys weren't just about entertainment; they also provided a valuable form of exercise. Cats would leap, chase, and pounce after the feathers, burning off energy and honing their coordination. For indoor cats, feather toys were a great way to simulate the thrill of the hunt without actually having to catch anything (or anyone).

Of course, feather toys also came with their own set of challenges. Durability was often an issue, as cats could easily tear apart the feathers with their claws and teeth. Supervision was also important to prevent cats from swallowing the feathers, which could pose a choking hazard. But despite these drawbacks, the allure of feathers remained strong in 2017, making them a must-have for any cat owner.

"Feather toys are a great way to engage a cat's hunting instincts," says Whiskers Weekly, a popular cat magazine in 2017. "Just be sure to supervise playtime and replace the toy when it starts to fall apart."

Laser Pointer Mania: A Love-Hate Relationship

Laser pointers continued to be a popular, yet controversial, cat toy in 2017. The allure was undeniable: a small, handheld device that could provide hours of entertainment with minimal effort. Cats would become mesmerized by the dancing red dot, chasing it across walls, floors, and furniture with unwavering focus.

However, as mentioned earlier, the lack of a tangible reward remained a major concern. Cats could chase the dot endlessly, but they would never actually catch anything, leading to frustration and anxiety. This could manifest in various ways, from obsessive chasing behaviors to aggression towards other pets or people.

Despite these concerns, laser pointers remained a popular choice for cat owners. Some experts recommended ending laser pointer sessions with a tangible reward, like a treat or a toy, to provide a sense of completion. Others advised against using laser pointers altogether, suggesting alternative toys that offered a more fulfilling play experience. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use a laser pointer was a personal one, based on the individual cat's personality and needs.

Where Are They Now? Update on 2017's Best Cat Toys

The Classics That Still Reign Supreme

Time marches on, but some toys are simply timeless. Remember those catnip mice that dominated 2017? Well, they're still kicking around, albeit in slightly more worn and slobbered-on condition. These classic toys have proven their enduring appeal, providing cats with a reliable source of entertainment and comfort. You can probably find a version of them at any pet store, a testament to their lasting popularity. It's like the blue jeans of cat toys – always in style.

And what about those feather wands that sparked countless hunting expeditions? They're still a favorite, though the feathers might be a bit more tattered and torn after years of enthusiastic play. The basic design remains the same, but manufacturers have continued to innovate, adding new materials, colors, and textures to keep things interesting. These toys tap into a cat's primal instincts, providing a satisfying and engaging play experience that never gets old.

"A good cat toy should be durable, safe, and engaging," says Dr. Feline, a veterinarian who has been practicing since 2017. "The classics have stood the test of time because they meet these criteria."

The Gadgets That Faded Away

Not all cat toys from 2017 have enjoyed such a long and prosperous life. Remember those fancy electronic toys with pre-programmed movements and flashing lights? Many of them have faded into obscurity, victims of technological obsolescence or simply a lack of sustained interest from cats. These gadgets often promised more than they could deliver, failing to capture a cat's attention for more than a few minutes at a time.

The problem with many electronic cat toys is that they lacked the organic, unpredictable qualities that cats found so appealing in real prey. They were too predictable, too repetitive, and ultimately, too boring. Cats are intelligent creatures, and they quickly figured out the patterns of these toys, losing interest once the novelty wore off. It's a harsh lesson for toy manufacturers: sometimes, simple is better.

I had this robotic mouse that was supposed to be the next big thing. Mittens sniffed it once, batted it a few times, and then completely ignored it. It sat in the corner for months, a monument to wasted money and unfulfilled promises. I eventually donated it, hoping some other cat might find it more appealing. Spoiler alert: they didn't.

• Reason #1: Lack of sustained interest from cats
• Reason #2: Technological obsolescence
• Reason #3: High price point

The DIY Creations: Still Going Strong (If You Made Them Well)

And what about those DIY cat toys from 2017? Well, their fate depends largely on the skill and dedication of their creators. Those expertly crafted cardboard castles and meticulously sewn catnip pouches are likely still providing cats with hours of entertainment. But those hastily assembled sock toys and lumpy felt creations? Probably not so much.

The beauty of DIY cat toys is that they can be easily repaired and repurposed. A torn seam can be sewn back together, a worn-out feather can be replaced, and a faded cardboard box can be decorated with new designs. This makes them a more sustainable and cost-effective option than many store-bought toys, which are often designed to be disposable. It's a testament to the power of creativity and resourcefulness.

"DIY cat toys are a great way to bond with your cat and save money," says Crafty Cat Corner, a popular DIY blog from 2017. "Just be sure to use safe materials and supervise playtime to prevent any accidents."

DIY Toy Survival Guide:

• Tip: Use durable materials
• Tip: Supervise playtime
• Tip: Repair and repurpose

The Verdict on 2017's Best Cat Toys

So, did 2017 deliver the goods when it came to cat toys? I think it's a mixed bag. Some toys were instant hits that are still going strong, while others faded faster than a laser pointer's battery. What I learned is that every cat is different. What Fluffy loves, Whiskers might ignore. The real takeaway? Pay attention to your cat's preferences, don't be afraid to experiment, and remember that sometimes, the best toy is still a cardboard box!