The Best Cat Toys Under $20 (Tried & Tested!)
Best Cat Toys Under $20
Let’s be honest — not every cat toy is worth the hype. Some break within days, others never spark interest, and a few just take up space in the corner. But when you find that one perfect toy? Your cat lights up, your furniture stays safe, and everyone wins.
At STRAYZ, we’re always on the lookout for the best cat toys that check all the boxes: affordable, interactive, durable, and cat-approved. And the truth is, you don’t need to spend a fortune to keep your cat entertained. Every toy on this list is under $20 — but has been tried, tested, and genuinely loved by real cats (and real humans who live with them).
From high-energy hunters to low-key loungers, these picks offer something for every feline personality. Whether you’re building your cat’s first toy box or just need to upgrade the usual options, these budget-friendly favorites deliver big play for a small price.
And yes — you can find all of them right in the STRAYZ Amazon Store, so stocking up is as easy as a few clicks.
What Makes a Great Cat Toy?
Play Styles Vary — So Should the Toys
No two cats play the same way. Some love the fast chase, others prefer to stalk and pounce, while many enjoy simply batting at something from the comfort of the couch. That’s why the best cat toys aren’t one-size-fits-all — they offer variety, stimulation, and just the right amount of unpredictability.
Look for toys that match your cat’s instincts. Interactive cat toys with motion or sound mimic prey and trigger natural hunting behavior. Others, like soft kicker toys or tunnels, satisfy a cat’s need to pounce, grab, or hide. The right toy brings out your cat’s inner athlete — even if that athlete only shows up for ten minutes a day.
And don't forget texture — cats are highly tactile. Feathers, felt, faux fur, or crinkly materials can all add layers of interest that keep a toy in regular rotation.
Why Cats Need More Than Just One Toy
You wouldn’t wear the same outfit every day, and your cat doesn’t want to play with the same toy either. Even the most exciting toy will eventually lose its charm if it’s always lying around. That’s why having a small collection of toys to rotate is so important.
A well-balanced toy selection supports:
Physical exercise — helping your cat stay agile and healthy
Mental stimulation — keeping them curious, alert, and engaged
Behavioral health — redirecting energy away from scratching furniture or waking you up at 3 a.m.
The trick is to observe how your cat responds to different toys. Do they chase? Wrestle? Hide and ambush? Then pick toys that feed into those behaviors — and switch them out weekly to keep things fresh.
Our Favorite Cat Toys Under $20 (All STRAYZ-Approved)
#01 SmartyKat Hot Pursuit Electronic Motion Toy
This toy is a crowd favorite for a reason. The SmartyKat Hot Pursuit taps into your cat’s natural hunting instincts with quick, unpredictable movement under a soft fabric cover. The hidden wand spins, switches directions, and speeds up randomly — giving your cat the thrill of the chase every time they play.
Why it works: Cats love toys that mimic real prey. The combination of movement, sound, and just-out-of-sight action creates an irresistible game that keeps them coming back. Whether they’re stalking, pouncing, or swatting, this toy gives them a workout and a mental challenge.
It’s especially great for:
High-energy cats that need structured activity
Solo play while you're busy or out
Multi-cat households (they’ll take turns or team up)
The base is low and stable, so it won’t flip over mid-chase, and the speed settings let you adjust for kittens or older cats. Pair it with a soft rug or open floor space and you’ve got an instant cat gym under $20.
This is one of the best interactive cat toys if your feline loves fast movement and a little mystery.
#02. Cat Dancer 101 Interactive Cat Toy
Cat Dancer Charmer
Price: $6.99
Simple, sturdy, and surprisingly addictive — the Cat Dancer 101 proves that you don’t need bells and whistles to keep your cat entertained. Made from spring steel wire and tightly rolled cardboard, it delivers quick, unpredictable movement that mimics the flick and flutter of real prey.
Why it works: The lightweight wire bounces and twists with even the slightest motion, giving your cat a chance to jump, pounce, and “hunt” as you guide it around. It’s interactive without being complicated — making it great for spontaneous play or winding down before bedtime.
Minimalist design cats actually love
No batteries or charging needed
Easy to stash in a drawer or bag
Tough enough to survive daily play
The Cat Dancer is ideal for cats who crave one-on-one play but lose interest in toys that just sit on the floor. It’s gentle, durable, and fun — all for under $7 — making it one of the best cat toys if you’re looking for low-effort, high-reward engagement.
#03. Potaroma Flopping Fish with Catnip
Flopping Fish with Catnip
Price: $9.98
Looking for a toy that gets even the laziest cats on their feet? The Potaroma Flopping Fish delivers just the right amount of motion and mischief. With a built-in motion sensor, it springs to life every time your cat touches it — flopping, wiggling, and driving them absolutely wild.
Why it works: The realistic fish design and erratic movement make it feel like prey. It’s especially great for cats who love to kick, bite, and wrestle. The soft plush body is easy on the paws, and it comes with a refillable pouch of catnip and silvervine — a combo most cats can’t resist.
Flops automatically when touched
USB rechargeable (no batteries needed)
Includes catnip + silvervine pouch
Durable plush body for safe biting and kicking
Cats love to pin it down with their front paws and go to town with their back legs — classic “bunny kicking” behavior that’s great for exercise. It’s also quiet and safe for indoor use, making it a perfect daily toy or special treat.
Bonus: the upgraded version features a longer-lasting battery and a stronger internal motor for better play and a longer toy life. Just unzip, flip the switch, and let the chaos begin.
#04. Petstages Tower of Tracks
Tower of Tracks
Price: $8.79
If your cat loves fast-moving toys and chasing games, the Tower of Tracks delivers nonstop action in a compact package. With three stacked levels and colorful spinning balls, this toy gives cats the perfect excuse to bat, swat, and stay active — no batteries or setup required.
Why it works: The balls stay securely in their tracks, so they never roll under the couch or disappear. Each swat sends them spinning around in a loop, triggering hunting instincts and giving your cat a challenge they’ll keep coming back to.
Three levels of circular ball tracks
Encourages solo play and daily exercise
Great for curious kittens and older cats alike
Nonslip base keeps it stable during high-energy play
The top bar keeps paws safe while still allowing plenty of reach — especially helpful for extra-playful cats who like to dig in. Whether your cat prefers a few quick rounds or longer bursts of activity, this is one of the best cat toys under $20 for cats who like to stay busy.
It’s also a hit in multi-cat homes, where everyone can take a turn (or compete) for a swipe at the spinning balls.
#05. Potaroma 4-Pack Knife-Shaped Catnip Crinkle Toys
Potaroma Horror Knife-Shaped Kitten Catnip
Price: $9.48
These are hands-down some of the funniest toys you’ll ever buy your cat — and they’re just as fun for you as they are for them. The Potaroma Knife-Shaped Toys combine plush softness with a darkly hilarious twist: tiny crinkle knives your cat can pounce, bite, and carry around like a miniature horror movie villain.
Why it works: Beyond the quirky design, these toys are loaded with organic catnip and silvervine, giving your cat a burst of playful energy. The built-in crinkle paper adds irresistible sound, encouraging cats to stalk, bite, and swat for longer stretches of time.
Comes as a set of four mini knife-shaped plush toys
Crinkle noise adds sensory stimulation
Infused with sun-dried, long-lasting catnip and silvervine
Safe for clawing, kicking, and light chewing
Great for photo ops — you’ve been warned
Soft enough to cuddle but durable enough to kick, these are ideal for both active play and calm downtime. They’re also perfect for homes with more than one cat — no need to fight over just one toy.
If you're looking to mix in something playful, affordable, and totally unique, this set is a guaranteed hit — and easily one of the best cat toys for under $10.
#06. Potaroma Flapping Bird — Touch-Activated Sandpiper Toy
Flapping Bird (No Flying)
Price: $14.98
Part kicker, part teaser, and fully adorable — this flapping sandpiper toy brings together motion, sound, and texture in one soft, lifelike plush. The wings flap when touched, and it lets out realistic chirping sounds that immediately grab your cat’s attention.
Why it works: Cats are hardwired to respond to fluttering, fast-moving prey — and this toy mimics exactly that. The flapping motion plus the tweeting sound create a multi-sensory experience that encourages natural pouncing, biting, and stalking.
Touch-activated flapping wings and chirping
Includes built-in catnip pouch for extra excitement
Can be used for solo play or attached to a wand for human interaction
Soft, durable plush for cuddling and wrestling
USB rechargeable with detachable motor for easy cleaning
You can use it two ways: hook it to a wand for interactive play, or let it rest on the floor as a responsive self-play toy. Either way, it’s designed to keep your cat active, entertained, and mentally stimulated — especially when you're away or busy.
This bird doesn’t fly, but it absolutely brings the fun. At under $15, it’s one of the best interactive cat toys that offers both movement and sound — a combo that’s hard to beat for curious, high-energy kitties.
#07. Potaroma Catnip Crinkle Pillows (3-Pack)
Potaroma Cat Toys Pillows
Price: $ — varies slightly by color/pattern
For cats who love soft textures, cozy snuggles, and a satisfying crinkle — this 3-pack of Potaroma Catnip Pillows is a gentle favorite. Each one is stuffed with organic catnip, wrapped in soft, pastel-colored fabric, and lined with crinkle paper that adds just enough noise to keep your cat curious and engaged.
Why it works: These pillows are ideal for lounging play. Cats can hold them with their front paws, kick with their back legs, or just lay their head on them for a nap. The subtle crinkle sound and catnip scent make them perfect for both active and chill moments.
Includes 3 colorful, soft plush pillows
Crinkle material adds sound-based stimulation
Filled with pure, potent catnip — no fillers
Gentle on claws and teeth — great for biting, batting, and cuddling
Perfect size for kittens or small-breed cats
These aren’t loud or flashy — but that’s the point. They’re ideal for downtime play, especially for cats who prefer mellow stimulation or need a post-zoomie cool-down. Plus, the cute colors make them a sweet little gift for any cat parent.
If your cat is into cozy vibes with a little kick, these are a must-add to your under-$20 toy list.
Stock Up With Confidence
Every toy in this roundup has been tested, loved, and approved by cats — and cat people — in the STRAYZ community. Whether you’re introducing playtime to a kitten or refreshing the toy stash for an older rescue, you don’t have to overthink it.
Explore our full selection of cat-tested favorites in the STRAYZ Amazon Store, where we’ve curated everything from cozy corners to the best interactive cat toys under $20.
✨ Give your cat something to chase, cuddle, or conquer — and make playtime the highlight of their day.
