January 22, 2024
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Chewing is a natural feline activity. Cats chew to relieve stress, combat boredom, and soothe sore gums. The best cat chew toys will provide a non-destructive outlet for your cat’s urge to gnaw. Ideally, they’ll be enticing and safe while supporting oral health and hygiene.
Like all cat gear, chew toys have a lot of variation. To simplify things, we’ve sorted through the saturated market to bring you our top 10 choices. We’ll also explain the types of cats these chews suit best, calling out key considerations for cat parents.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best Cat Toys for Cats That Like To Chew
Pioneer Pet Nip Nibblers
- Simple but effective
- Said to remove tartar
- Safe and non-toxic
Petstages ORKAkat Wiggle Worm Cat Toy
- Has an appealing worm shape
- Food-safe rubber nodules help to support dental health
- Infused with catnip
Petstages Fresh Breath Mint Stick Cat Toy
- Real mint freshens breath
- Mesh helps to remove plaque
- Has a lightweight body for swatting and carrying
Meowy Jane Matatabi Silvervine Chew Sticks
- Matatabi or silvervine may affect cats who don’t respond to catnip
- The soft sticks help to gently abrade plaque
- Fibrous vines won’t splinter like wood
KONG Kitty KONG Cat Toy
- Doubles as an interactive feeder
- Some cats love the toy’s bounce and chewable texture
- Tough rubber construction can withstand heavy chewing
Petstages Dental Kitty Chew Wheel
- Food-safe rubber offers a satisfying bite and helps removes tartar
- Can be chilled in the fridge or freezer
- Infused with catnip oil
Bojafa Chewable Catnip Toys
- Made from sturdy, rough linen material
- Plush and comfy to play with
- Good for cats who like softer toys
Potaroma Catnip Mice Cages
- Silvervine helps clean teeth
- Fiber in edible parts improves digestion and helps with hairballs
- 100% hand woven
Petlinks Rowdy Roller Dental Chew Ball
- Encourages exercise
- Massages gums and helps with dental hygiene
- Great for interactive play
KONG Wubba Cat Toy
- Ultra-soft fabric
- Cats like to kick, cuddle, and bite the fuzzy body
- Crinkle tentacles engage your cat’s senses
Our rankings are determined by a variety of factors. Each cat will have different needs and preferences, so while the Pioneer Pet Nip Nibblers make our top choice, they may not be ideal for your unique cat. To help you choose the right chew toy for your cat, we’ve broken down our recommendations according to specific dental goals, materials, types of cats, and other key considerations.
#1 Overall Best: Pioneer Pet Nip Nibblers
Our top choice is a simple one—but it’s a cat (and human) favorite. These woven nylon pouches are filled with catnip that’s released when your kitty bites down or squeezes them. The mesh-like surface allows teeth through for some polishing.
My cats went nuts for these straight out of the gate. Actually, before I even opened the packaging. With one nibbler held firmly under his paw, my male cat alternated between licking and gnawing it. These are lightweight and just the right size for cats to carry around. They’re also easy on your wallet: a value pack of three will set you back just five bucks.
What We Liked
- Simple but effective
- Said to remove tartar
- Safe and non-toxic
- Affordable option
What We Didn’t Like
- Catnip could get a little messy
- Some reviews mention sharp edges
#2 Best Gum Massager: Petstages ORKAkat Wiggle Worm Cat Toy
This worm-shaped toy is one of the most popular chew toys on the market. Rubber nodules help to massage the gums and support oral health while your cat chews. All cats stand to benefit from this, but teething kittens, in particular, will find this toy a comfort. For a soothing cool treat, pop it in the fridge or freezer first.
This toy’s size makes it ideal for cats who love to chew and bat around smaller objects. It has a floppy, enticing shape and is infused with catnip to encourage play.
What We Liked
- Has an appealing worm shape
- Food-safe rubber nodules help to support dental health
- Infused with catnip
What We Didn’t Like
- Cats are divided over the toy—half seem to love it, and half of them have no interest
#3 Best Breath Freshener: Petstages Fresh Breath Mint Stick Cat Toy
If your focus is on eliminating bad breath, this mint stick may be a good option for you. It’s stuffed with real dried mint to help freshen your cat’s breath. And a durable netting cover helps to remove plaque as your cat chews.
For extra allure, the leaf ends have crinkly material. The mint stick gets excellent customer reviews, with 90% of Chewy reviewers saying they’d recommend it to a friend.
What We Liked
- Real mint freshens breath
- Mesh helps to remove plaque
- Has a lightweight body for swatting and carrying
- Good value
What We Didn’t Like
- Some cats may not like the smell of mint
#4 Best Chew Sticks: Meowy Jane Matatabi Silvervine Chew Sticks
Matatabi, also known as silvervine, is a plant that produces a reaction similar to catnip, making cats euphoric, playful, and relaxed. Matatabi’s woody stalks are safe, soft, and chewable, making them a great toy for cats who like to gnaw.
Each bag of Meowy Jane Chews includes 7-9 matatabi sticks, depending on their thickness. Even if your cat isn’t ordinarily into catnip, they may enjoy matatabi. Along with being a good time, these sticks can help promote oral health.
What We Liked
- Matatabi or silvervine may affect cats who don’t respond to catnip
- The soft sticks help to gently abrade plaque
- Fibrous vines won’t splinter like wood
- Sticks can be reused
- Processed in the U.S.
What We Didn’t Like
- Some cats won’t find the sticks interesting
#5 Best for Enrichment: KONG Kitty KONG Cat Toy
This Kitty KONG toy is designed specifically for cats, with softer material than the brand’s original red chew for dogs. At 2.25” X 1.5”, it’s also the perfect size for cats to bite and carry.
The kitty KONG is designed to work double-duty as a toy and a treat dispenser, engaging your cat’s desire to hunt their food. It has a fun, unpredictable bounce that will send your cat zooming across the room. KONG has a reputation for durability, and this cat toy is no exception.
About half of the reviewers were disappointed by the toy, but some sang its praises. Unfortunately, the toy’s cavity is large and doesn’t retain traditional treats well. As a workaround, we suggest filling it with lickable treats for valuable kitty enrichment.
What We Liked
- Doubles as an interactive feeder
- Some cats love the toy’s bounce and chewable texture
- Tough rubber construction can withstand heavy chewing
What We Didn’t Like
- Treats tend to fall out of the toy
#6 Best for Teething Kittens: Petstages Dental Kitty Chew Wheel
This toy looks like the type of teething ring you might give a human baby—and we think it makes a fine choice for baby cats, too. It features a rubber ring with gum-massaging spokes that teething kittens, especially, will appreciate. Chill the wheel in your fridge or freezer for an extra soothing treat.
Catnip oil and two fabric streamers add interest. Although most customers say their cats liked the toy, a few said the fabric streamers came off during heavy play or chewing. Some cats may chew off the fabric and swallow it.
What We Liked
- Food-safe rubber offers a satisfying bite and helps removes tartar
- Can be chilled in the fridge or freezer
- Infused with catnip oil
- Affordable
What We Didn’t Like
- Has fabric streamers that may fall off during vigorous use
#7 Best for Seniors: Bojafa Chewable Catnip Toys
These soft kitties are filled with catnip-infused cotton and sheathed in robust linen material. They’re described as chewable toys that can clean your cat’s teeth. They also double as nice cuddle toys for the senior kitty who appreciates plush.
If your older cat could use a push to exercise, these are just right for bunny-kicking. Cats love grabbing, kicking, and chewing them.
What We Liked
- Made from sturdy, rough linen material
- Plush and comfy to play with
- Good for cats who like softer toys
What We Didn’t Like
- Not ideal for cats who like more rigid chew toys
#8 Best for Large Cats: Potaroma Catnip Mice Cages
Big cats may appreciate a toy that’s slightly more substantial. And these silvervine mice cages fit the bill. Enticing silvervine sticks encase two points of interest: a catnip ball and a rattling ball. Dried gall fruit balls stand in for the “eyes” (our feline tester was particularly intrigued by these).
If your kitty likes to chew on the silvervine sticks, they’ll help remove tartar and plaque. To pique your cat’s interest, Potaroma recommends scraping the outer layer of the sticks to release their scent. And when your cat begins to cool on the silvervine sticks, you can break them apart to give your cat the catnip ball and bell toy inside.
The silvervine sticks, gall fruit, and catnip ball are all edible.
What We Liked
- Silvervine helps clean teeth
- Fiber in edible parts improves digestion and helps with hairballs
- 100% hand woven
- No chemical adhesives
- Comes with two toys
What We Didn’t Like
- Not every cat enjoys chewing on silvervine
#9 Best for Active Cats: Petlinks Rowdy Roller Dental Chew Ball
During play, this feathered dental chew resembles a bird—which should kick your cat’s hunting instincts into gear. The round design makes it fun (and easy) to roll this toy across the floor, encouraging cats to chase it.
When your cat bites down on the rubber ball, ridges massage their gums and help clean their teeth. If your cat can’t resist a moving feather, this toy could encourage exercise while promoting dental health.
What We Liked
- Encourages exercise
- Massages gums and helps with dental hygiene
- Great for interactive play
- Affordable option
What We Didn’t Like
- Lazy cats may not be interested
#10 Best Plush Chew: KONG Wubba Cat Toy
Plush toys can make good chews for cats who prefer a softer bite. The KONG Wubba features fuzzy fabric that is as nice to chew as it is to cuddle.
This toy is fun, too! The Wubba is floppy with a catnip scent, crinkly tentacles, and a rattling body to keep your cat interested. If your cat prefers a big, squishy toy they can wrap their arms around while they chew, this could be a real hit.
What We Liked
- Ultra-soft fabric
- Cats like to kick, cuddle, and bite the fuzzy body
- Crinkle tentacles engage your cat’s senses
- Catnip-scented to pique your cat’s interest
- Tends to be a hit with kittens
What We Didn’t Like
- Not the best option for cats who like firmer chew toys
Why Are Chew Toys Important—and Does Your Cat Need One?
We all know that cats like to play with lasers and string toys. But do they really need chew toys? While a chew toy won’t be every cat’s cup of tea, most cats can benefit from one. Chew toys can help with the following goals:
- Redirecting inappropriate chewing: Some cats just like to chew. Providing a cat-friendly alternative is a smart move if their go-to chewing surface is not ideal (wires or sweaters, for example).
- Improving dental health: Chewing on certain materials helps to break down plaque and tartar. It also stimulates blood circulation in the gums.
- Massaging gums: Teething kittens may appreciate the feel of rubber against their gums, especially when it’s chilled in the fridge.
- Relieving stress: Chewing releases feel-good endorphins, helping to ease anxiety and keep cats calm.
- Adding enrichment: Indoor cats can get bored (and destructive, by extension). A good chew toy will provide mental stimulation to keep your kitty entertained and engaged.
How To Choose the Best Chew Toy for Your Cat
As you can see, the world of cat chew toys is abundant and diverse. How can cat parents pick a chew that will a.) prove beneficial and b.) appeal to their unique cat? We found it helps to focus on a few points.
Consider Your Cat’s Specific Needs
To point yourself in the right direction, think about the goals you’d like to achieve with a chew toy. Ask yourself: Do I want to help my cat clean their teeth? Am I looking for a stress reliever? Or a brain stimulator? (Or both?)
Different materials and designs will perform better at certain tasks. Soft rubber, for instance, can soothe the gums of teething kittens. Senior cats, on the other hand, may prefer a gentler plush chew. If you’re trying to redirect destructive chewing, features like catnip infusions, crinkly materials, and silvervine can provide a more appealing alternative.
Consider Your Cat’s Chewing Preferences
Cats are particular creatures. Some might like gnawing on rubber knots. Others might prefer to chew on soft fabric toys. And still others may take a shine to silvervine sticks. It may take a period of trial and error to learn what your kitty enjoys.
Prioritize Durability
Flimsy chews that break easily aren’t just a nuisance—they pose a serious choking risk. No toy will be 100% indestructible, but some come pretty close. Generally, tough rubber material holds up better to exuberant play. If your cat is a strong chewer, you may want to consider reputable brands known for durability, like KONG.
Why Trust Cats.com
All reviews by Cats.com start with thorough research, which we apply to real-world testing with our own cats.
Before making any product selections, we looked at why cats need chew toys in the first place. We read some of the studies and scientific literature available on the topic, noting expert advice from Cornell’s Feline Health Center. Then we reviewed the market to see what cat parents had to say about certain toys. Once we got a sense of what makes a good chew toy, we made our selections for testing.
To bring readers the best chew toys, we considered a range of feline needs and cat parent goals. For safety reasons, we prioritized durable construction, non-toxic materials, and appropriately sized toys. We also aimed to include chew toys that aid in oral hygiene.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should cats have chew toys?
They’re not a necessity, but most cats can benefit from chew toys. They may promote oral hygiene, relieve stress, and offer stimulating enrichment. If you have a chew-happy cat, a chewable toy gives them an appropriate surface to sink their chompers.
What can kittens safely chew on?
For very young kittens (under 2 months), look for soft materials like nylon and mesh that will be gentle on their toothless gums. Once their teeth begin to emerge, you can offer them rubber toys to massage gums and relieve discomfort. Many kittens find chewing and licking to be soothing.
Are cat sticks good for cats?
Yes! Not all cats will like them, but for those who do, natural silvervine sticks are entirely safe. They also help to remove tartar, and they can have a pleasant, euphoric effect on cats.
