Currently, there is a growing interest among consumers in high-quality toys with exciting shapes and designs for cats. Automated toys that can entertain cats even when they are alone are particularly popular. According to Kris Kaiser, a marketer at DuckyWorld Products and Yeowww! Catnip, cat owners seek toys that promote exercise, engagement, and fun. Similarly, Mike Dagne, the president of Huxley & Kent, emphasizes the need for creatively designed toys that cater to the desires of cat owners, just as toys for dogs do.
Jessie Nixon, the brand marketing manager for PetSafe, highlights the importance of educating consumers about the reasons behind using toys and the social needs of cats. She believes that linking products to feline behavior is crucial because people often underestimate cats’ need for engagement and interaction.
Moreover, there is a growing trend among consumers to look for toys that can entertain their cats when they are away. Busy pet parents want reassurance that their cats won’t be bored or destructive at home. Cat toys provide mental stimulation and amusement, offering peace of mind to owners. Randy Klein, the co-owner of Whiskers Holistic Pet Care, agrees that people are increasingly seeking toys that cats can play with independently, such as automated or motion-activated toys.
In addition to functionality, ease of use, and entertainment value, toys that are aesthetically pleasing for the home are also in demand. Sherry Redwine, the owner of Odyssey Pets, mentions popular toys like the 36-inch teaser wands by Go-Cat and bulk items like crinkle balls. Supporting local businesses is also important, with Simply B Vermont catnip toys being best-sellers at The Quirky Pet.
Seasonal themes play a significant role in attracting cat-loving consumers. Holiday-themed toys, such as those for Valentine’s Day, patriotic events, or pride celebrations, sell quickly. Furthermore, everyday themes like happy hour, snacks, or sweets also make appealing presentations to consumers and boost sales.
Catnip remains a popular ingredient in cat toys due to its effects on feline behavior. Catnip, scientifically known as Nepeta cataria, belongs to the mint family and contains a compound called nepetalactone, which cats respond to. The oils in catnip stimulate cats’ olfactory sensors and affect their hormones, similar to pheromones. Catnip is safe and non-addictive for cats, and it can be used in various forms.
Companies like Huxley & Kent and Yeowww! Catnip use loose or hand-packed organic catnip in their toys. P.L.A.Y. uses USDA-certified organic catnip packed in small pouches that can be easily removed and replaced. Freshness, green color, and a strong catnip scent are essential for effective catnip.
Manufacturers are constantly developing novel and fun toys filled with catnip to cater to the desires of cats and their owners. Huxley & Kent’s Kittybelles collection offers catnip toys in playful designs, including styles resembling food and beverages. P.L.A.Y. introduced Halloween-themed cat kicker toys, adding to their existing line. DuckyWorld’s Stinkies Sardines are popular due to their size, affordability, and high catnip content. Their Chi-Cat-a Banana toy is also well-received by cats, featuring a curve that makes it easy to grab and kick.
Effective merchandising plays a crucial role in attracting customers to the cat toy section of a store. Vivid colors, fun designs, and thoughtful displays can significantly enhance the visibility of toys. Full displays have been shown to generate 40% more sales than pegging alone. Creating prominent presentations for newly arrived items and using videos of cats playing with toys can also increase sales. Retailers should consider their customer base and provide personalized
