Cats bunny-kick to mimic hunting and finish the “capture”, it’s instinctive, satisfying, and often hilarious to watch. The best cat toys for bunny kicking are built for grab-and-hold play: long enough to wrap front paws around, durable to survive strong hind-leg kicks, and textured or scented to keep your cat engaged.
Whether your pet prefers plush, stuffed kickers, crinkly tubes, or catnip-filled sticks, the right toy gives them a safe outlet for natural predatory play while protecting your hands and furniture. Below are top, reliable choices made with that exact behaviour in mind.
Best Cat Toys for Bunny Kicking That Keep Your Kitty Active
Here are the best cat toys for bunny kicking designed to unleash your feline’s natural bunny-kicking instincts, perfect for active play, exercise, and endless entertainment.
The KickerTube Plush Stick
A long, soft plush tube about 14–18 inches long, the KickerTube is ideal for full-body play. Its cylindrical shape lets cats wrap front paws and use strong hind legs to kick without losing grip.
Most versions have reinforced seams and a double-layer fabric that resists claws and heavy thumping. Many are filled with a mix of polyester stuffing and a catnip pouch, removable for washing, so the toy stays enticing but clean.
Lightweight enough to be tossed, yet dense enough to take rough play, the KickerTube balances durability, safety, and instant appeal for most cats who love to kick.
Key Features:
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Durable Design: Reinforced seams and thick plush material for long-lasting play.
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Washable: Removable catnip pouch allows easy cleaning.
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Perfect Size: 14–18 inches for comfortable gripping and kicking.
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Catnip-Filled: Encourages excitement and natural hunting instincts.
CrunchKicker Rattle Roll
Designed for sensory stimulation, the CrunchKicker features an outer layer of rippling textured fabric and internal crinkle sheets plus a soft rattle.
At roughly 12–16 inches, it’s perfectly sized for gripping and kicking; the crinkle and rattle sounds mimic prey movement, which encourages repeated pounces and prolonged bunny-kicking sessions.
Its seams are triple-stitched and its stuffing secured in a removable inner pouch for easy washing. The combination of tactile feedback and gentle noise makes it especially good for shy cats who need a little extra encouragement to engage in vigorous play.
Key Features:
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Multi-Sensory Play: Crinkle and rattle sounds mimic prey to trigger instinctive reactions.
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Durable Construction: Triple-stitched seams prevent tearing.
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Washable Core: Removable stuffing for easy maintenance.
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Ideal for Timid Cats: Engages shy or cautious cats through sound and texture.
The NaturalFiber Hemp Kicker (Catnip Core)
For owners who prefer eco-friendly materials, this kicker is made from durable hemp/cotton fabric and contains an organic catnip core. The natural fibers stand up to scratching and kicking better than many plush toys and develop a satisfying texture cats love to grip.
At about 15 inches long, it’s excellent for wrestle-and-kick behavior and holds up well when washed by hand. The catnip core can be replaced when it fades, extending the toy’s life.
Because it’s free from synthetic dyes and weak stuffing, the NaturalFiber Hemp Kicker is a good choice for heavier kickers and pets with mild sensitivities.
Key Features:
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Eco-Friendly Build: Made with sustainable hemp and cotton fibers.
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Replaceable Catnip Core: Keeps the toy fresh and exciting for months.
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Safe for Sensitive Cats: Free from dyes and harsh materials.
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Highly Durable: Withstands aggressive bunny-kicking sessions.
Skitter Critters Catnip Toy Mice
These classic catnip-filled mice are a timeless favorite for cats who love to grab, kick, and toss their prey. The small size mimics real mice, stimulating your cat’s hunting instincts.
Each mouse is packed with potent catnip to encourage active play sessions and satisfy your feline’s natural urge for bunny kicking. They’re lightweight, soft, and safe for indoor cats.
Key Features:
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Classic Design: Realistic mouse look triggers natural predatory instincts.
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Catnip-Infused: Keeps cats engaged and active.
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Lightweight: Easy to toss, carry, and kick.
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Safe Materials: Ideal for indoor play.
Wrestling Buddy Kicker Cat Toy
The Wrestling Buddy is designed specifically for cats that love to grab, bite, and kick. Made with durable yet soft materials, this toy can withstand strong bunny kicks while keeping your cat entertained for hours.
The built-in crinkle sound and catnip filling enhance engagement, making it perfect for solo play when you’re not around.
Key Features:
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Durable Build: Resists clawing, biting, and kicking.
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Sound + Catnip Combo: Crinkle noise and catnip boost playtime.
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Perfect for Solo Play: Keeps cats entertained when alone.
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Soft Texture: Gentle on claws and teeth.
Banana Catnip Kicker Toy
This iconic banana-shaped toy is stuffed with 100% organic catnip, making it irresistible to cats. The elongated design makes it easy for cats to clutch and kick with their hind legs.
Durable cotton fabric resists ripping even during intense play. Its fun shape and strong scent keep your cat returning for more bunny-kicking sessions.
Key Features:
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Unique Shape: Banana design perfect for gripping and kicking.
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100% Organic Catnip: Potent and chemical-free.
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Durable Fabric: Stands up to repeated bunny kicks.
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Bright & Fun: Visually appealing to cats and owners alike.
And more, other excellent options
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Sheepskin Kicker: Ultra-soft, great for comfort seekers who love to cuddle after kicking.
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BirdTail Long Plush: Has a floppy tail that adds an extra prey-like pull.
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Interactive Motorized Kicker: Small motor causes a twitching motion; best supervised.
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Silvervine-Filled Kicker: An alternative to catnip for more intense reactions.
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DIY Sock Kicker: This is a budget option. Fill a long sock with crinkly paper + catnip and tie the end.
How to Choose the Right Toy for Bunny Kicking
Selecting the perfect bunny-kick toy can make a big difference in keeping your cat engaged, active, and safe.
Look for toys between 12–18 inches long, that’s the sweet spot for most adult cats to fully wrap their paws and use their hind legs comfortably. Sturdy construction is key: reinforced seams and secure stuffing help toys withstand repeated clawing and biting.
Texture also plays a major role:
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Plush fabrics offer comfort and softness, ideal for snuggling and gentle play.
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Hemp or canvas materials are tougher and perfect for heavy kickers.
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Crinkle or rattling elements keep cats intrigued with extra sensory feedback.
Opt for toys with refillable or removable catnip pouches, so you can refresh the scent over time without needing to replace the entire toy. If your cat tends to chew aggressively, prioritize models with no detachable parts or fragile stitching.
Lastly, always check the manufacturer’s age and size recommendations to ensure your cat’s safety and the best play experience.
Safety Tips When Using Bunny-Kick Toys
Safety is crucial when it comes to energetic play. Avoid leaving young kittens or unsupervised cats alone with toys that have small accessories, dangling strings, or delicate decorations, these can pose choking hazards.
Trim your cat’s nails regularly to prevent excessive fabric tearing and potential ingestion of loose threads. Inspect toys weekly for damage, rips, or exposed stuffing, as even a small tear can lead to accidental swallowing.
For battery-operated or motorized toys, always remove the batteries when not in use to avoid leaks or damage. Supervise interactive play to ensure your cat doesn’t chew through casing or wires.
If a toy shows significant wear or loose stitching, replace it promptly. A good rule of thumb: when in doubt, swap it out, safety always comes first.
How to Introduce a New Kicker Toy
Cats can be cautious with unfamiliar objects, so timing and approach are everything when introducing a new bunny-kick toy. Bring the toy out during your cat’s peak playtime, usually after a nap or mealtime. Start by gently wiggling or dragging it along the floor to simulate prey movement, encouraging a natural chase-and-kick response.
If your cat doesn’t show immediate interest, sprinkle a bit of catnip or silvervine on the toy to spark curiosity. Offer gentle praise and let your cat explore it at their own pace. When your cat begins to grab or kick the toy, reward them with petting or verbal encouragement to strengthen positive associations.
Rotate kicker toys with other favorites every few days, variety keeps things fresh and prevents boredom. Over time, your cat will associate these toys with excitement and satisfaction.
Cleaning & Care
Keeping your cat’s toys clean extends their lifespan and ensures safe play. Look for toys with removable catnip pouches or washable covers for easy maintenance. If the care label allows, machine wash on a gentle cycle; otherwise, hand wash with mild soap and cool water, then air dry completely.
Before washing, always remove any electronics, catnip, or loose parts. For tougher fabrics like hemp or canvas, spot clean instead of soaking to preserve the material’s structure.
Refreshing catnip every few weeks keeps the scent strong and enticing. Discard toys that can’t be repaired, especially those with leaking stuffing or damaged seams, to maintain a clean, safe play environment.
Quick Troubleshooting (If Your Cat Ignores the Toy)
Sometimes even the best cat toys for bunny kicking don’t immediately grab your pet’s attention, and that’s okay. Try warming the toy in your hands to transfer your scent, which can make it more familiar and comforting. Sprinkle fresh catnip or silvervine to boost interest, especially if the toy has been around for a while.
If your cat still seems uninterested, experiment with different textures, some prefer soft plush toys, while others go wild for crinkle or hemp options. You can also animate the toy by gently tossing or dragging it, mimicking the movement of small prey.
In cases where your cat playfully attacks your hands, redirect their energy toward the toy instead. Stay consistent, with time, your cat will learn to channel their bunny-kicking instincts into safe, satisfying play.