Vet Reviewed By:
Dr. Allona Jackson, DVM
Dr. Jackson is a practicing veterinarian with over 12 years of experience in small animal care. She reviews all content on AvailPet.com for medical accuracy and pet safety.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, AvailPet earns a small commission at no extra cost to you. This content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your veterinarian regarding your pet’s medical condition.
Quick Answer: Top Cat Tree with Toys Pick
Our top pick for cat trees with toys: Heybly 43.3″ Cat Tree at $39.99 — cat teaser stick, plush ball with bell, basket hammock, anti-toppling devices, and 11,264 reviews.
Best budget with toys: TWDEPART 37.5″ Cat Tree at $35.99 — toy balls, sisal scratching, cactus green design, 6,565 reviews.
Most unique (self-grooming brush): Smouatou Cat Tree at $26.99 — self-grooming brush, interactive toys, scratching pads, 5-in-1 activity center.
💡 Why Toys Matter: A cat tree without toys is like a playground without swings — it’s fine, but it’s not great. Integrated toys provide mental stimulation, physical exercise, and bonding opportunities.
Why Toys on Cat Trees Matter for Indoor Cats
Indoor cats face unique challenges. They don’t hunt. They don’t patrol territory. They don’t climb real trees. A cat tree with toys addresses all of these missing elements.
The Indoor Cat Enrichment Problem
| Problem | Consequence |
|---|---|
| No hunting opportunities | Boredom, obesity, lethargy |
| No mental stimulation | Anxiety, destructive behavior |
| No interactive play | Reduced bonding with owner |
| No variety in environment | Depression, over-grooming |
Benefits of Integrated Toys on Cat Trees
| Benefit | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Mental stimulation | Toys mimic prey — batting, pouncing, chasing |
| Physical exercise | Climbing + playing = calorie burn |
| Owner bonding | Teaser sticks create interactive play moments |
| Stress relief | Play reduces cortisol, increases happiness |
| Solo entertainment | Hanging balls keep cat engaged when you’re away |
Dr. Jackson’s Clinical Note: *”In my practice, I recommend at least 15-20 minutes of interactive play per day for indoor cats. A cat tree with built-in toys makes that easier. The teaser stick on the Heybly tree, for example, encourages owners to engage with their cats vertically — which is more natural and more effective than floor play.”*
Research on Play & Cat Behavior
Studies show that regular interactive play reduces:
- Aggression between cats (by up to 60%)
- Destructive scratching of furniture
- Stress-related behaviors (urine marking, over-grooming)
- Obesity and related health issues
What to Look For in a Cat Tree with Toys
Types of Integrated Toys
| Toy Type | Best For | Products |
|---|---|---|
| Teaser stick | Owner-interactive play, bonding | Heybly |
| Hanging balls with bells | Solo play, auditory stimulation | Heybly, TWDEPART |
| Spring toys | Batting, pouncing, solo play | Smouatou |
| Self-grooming brush | Solo grooming, sensory enrichment | Smouatou (unique) |
| Pom-poms / dangling toys | Batting, grabbing | Most trees |
Toy Durability & Replaceability
| Question | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Can toys be replaced when destroyed? | Prevents tree from becoming “boring” |
| Are extra toys included? | Heybly includes extra teaser stick |
| Are bells removable? | Some owners prefer quiet toys |
From your screenshots:
- Heybly: “Extra cat teaser stick increases interactive fun” ✅
- Smouatou: Interactive toys included
Overall Tree Height & Stability
| Height | Best For | Anti-Tip Needed |
|---|---|---|
| 27.5″ (Smouatou) | Small spaces, kittens, secondary tree | Not needed |
| 37.5″ (TWDEPART) | Average homes, standard cats | Recommended |
| 43.3″ (Heybly) | Taller ceilings, larger cats | ✅ Included |
From your screenshots:
- Heybly: “Anti-toppling devices ensures security” ✅
- Smouatou: “Reinforced base and stable structure” ✅
Additional Features
| Feature | Products | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Hammock | Heybly | Cozy lounging spot |
| Basket | Heybly | Wrapped feeling = security |
| Condo | Smouatou | Private hiding spot |
| Scratching posts | All three | Furniture protection |
| Scratching pads | Smouatou | Horizontal scratching option |
3 Best Cat Trees with Toys — 2026 Reviews
Based on your screenshots, organized by features and price.
1. Heybly 43.3″ Cat Tree — Best Overall (Teaser Stick + Plush Ball + Anti-Toppling)
Specifications (from product page):
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Price | $39.99 |
| Height | 43.3 inches |
| Dimensions | 17.32″L x 12.6″W |
| Toy features | Cat teaser stick + plush ball with bell |
| Additional features | Basket hammock, padded top perch, jumping platforms |
| Scratching | Sisal-wrapped posts |
| Anchoring | Anti-toppling devices INCLUDED |
| Material | Engineered wood, faux fur |
| For | All breed sizes |
| Rating | 4.2 ★★★★★ (11,264 reviews) |
| Sales | 1,000+ bought past month |
| Sustainability | 3 features |
| Status | Best Price on Amazon |
What We Loved:
The Heybly is the most complete package in this roundup. At 43.3 inches tall with anti-toppling devices included, it’s safe, stable, and packed with features.
The cat teaser stick is the standout feature — it encourages owner-interactive play, which is crucial for bonding and mental stimulation. Most cat trees don’t include this.
The plush ball with bell provides auditory stimulation for solo play. The bell is designed to “not make too much noise” — thoughtful for owners who don’t want constant jingling.
The basket hammock gives cats that “wrapped up” feeling that makes them feel secure. Cats naturally love enclosed, cozy spaces.
The structure is designed according to cats’ climbing habits — two jumping platforms help kittens and older cats climb up and down easily.
11,264 reviews at 4.2 stars — proven track record across thousands of cats and owners.
What Gave Us Pause:
At $39.99, it’s the most expensive tree in this roundup, but you’re getting the teaser stick, anti-toppling devices, and 11,000+ reviews.
Assembly may take 30-40 minutes.
Toy & Play Score:
| Feature | Score (out of 5) |
|---|---|
| Toy variety | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (teaser stick + ball with bell) |
| Owner-interactive play | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (teaser stick included) |
| Height | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (43.3″) |
| Anti-tip | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (included) |
| Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Dr. Jackson’s Take: “The teaser stick is the differentiator here. Interactive play is one of the most important things you can do for your indoor cat’s mental health. Having the teaser stick built into the tree encourages owners to play vertically, which is more natural for cats than floor play. The anti-toppling devices are a must at this height. This is my top pick for owners who want to actively engage with their cats.”
Best for: Most cat owners, owners who want interactive play, cats who love teaser toys, homes with taller ceilings.
Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ — Best overall cat tree with toys.
2. TWDEPART 37.5″ Cat Tree — Best Budget with Toys (Cactus Design)
Specifications (from product page):
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Price | $35.99 |
| Height | 37.5 inches |
| Base | 16.5″ x 16.5″ |
| Toy features | Toy balls |
| Additional features | Multiple platforms, cozy sleeping perch, hammock |
| Scratching | Sisal scratching posts |
| Color | Cactus green |
| For | Small, medium breeds |
| Material | Sisal |
| Rating | 4.3 ★★★★★ (6,565 reviews) |
What We Loved:
The TWDEPART offers the best value for budget-conscious buyers at $35.99. You get a 37.5″ tree with toy balls, sisal scratching, multiple platforms, and a hammock.
The cactus green color is unique and fun — a refreshing alternative to beige, gray, and dark gray. It will appeal to owners who want a playful aesthetic.
The sturdy and stable base (16.5″ x 16.5″) ensures safety during active play.
6,565 reviews at 4.3 stars — excellent track record.
The design includes multiple platforms and posts offering various climbing and resting spots.
What Gave Us Pause:
Anti-tip not explicitly mentioned — at 37.5 inches, recommended to purchase a universal kit.
No owner-interactive toy (teaser stick) — just solo play toys.
For small to medium breeds only — not for large cats over 12-14 lbs.
Toy & Play Score:
| Feature | Score (out of 5) |
|---|---|
| Price | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ($35.99) |
| Aesthetic | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (cactus green, unique) |
| Toy features | ⭐⭐⭐ (toy balls only) |
| Owner-interactive | ⭐⭐ (no teaser stick) |
| Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Dr. Jackson’s Take: *”For budget-conscious owners who want a fun, aesthetic tree, this is a solid choice. The cactus green color is genuinely unique — most cat trees are beige or gray. The 6,500+ reviews give me confidence. Just know that the toy features are solo-play only (balls), and you’ll want to add an anti-tip kit for safety at this height.”*
Best for: Budget-conscious owners, small to medium cats, owners who love unique aesthetics (cactus green), solo-play cats.
Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ — Best budget cat tree with toys.
3. Smouatou Cat Tree — Most Unique (Self-Grooming Brush + Interactive Toys)
Specifications (from product page):
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Price | $26.99 |
| Height | 27.5 inches |
| Toy features | Self-grooming brush + interactive toys |
| Additional features | Padded perch, enclosed condo, scratching pads |
| Scratching | Sisal-wrapped post + scratching pads (dual surfaces) |
| Anchoring | Reinforced base and stable structure |
| For | All cats |
| Material | Plush fabric, sisal |
| Rating | 3.9 ★★★★★ (196 reviews — newer product) |
| Status | Best Price on Amazon (90-day low price) |
What We Loved:
The Smouatou is the most unique tree in this roundup — it features a self-grooming brush. Cats can brush themselves against it, which is great for sensory enrichment and reducing loose fur.
5-in-1 activity center combines: self-grooming brush, condo, scratching pads, scratching posts, and interactive toys. That’s exceptional value for $26.99.
The dual scratching surfaces (post + pads) give cats options — some cats prefer vertical, some horizontal.
The enclosed condo provides a private retreat for anxious cats or cats who need a break from play.
The reinforced base ensures stability during active play.
What Gave Us Pause:
Only 196 reviews — newer product with less proven track record than Heybly’s 11,000+ reviews.
At 27.5 inches, shorter than others — for small spaces or as a secondary tree, not for cats who need serious height.
3.9 star rating is lower than competitors — some buyers may have had issues.
Toy & Play Score:
| Feature | Score (out of 5) |
|---|---|
| Unique feature | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (self-grooming brush — rare) |
| Price | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ($26.99 — lowest) |
| 5-in-1 functionality | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Height | ⭐⭐⭐ (27.5″) |
| Reviews | ⭐⭐ (only 196) |
| Value | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Dr. Jackson’s Take: *”The self-grooming brush is genuinely innovative — cats love rubbing their faces on things, and this lets them do it themselves while removing loose fur. For $27, the 5-in-1 feature set is impressive. However, the low review count (196) and 3.9-star rating give me pause. This is a newer product, so quality is less proven. For budget-conscious owners willing to take a chance, it’s intriguing. For most owners, I’d recommend the Heybly for its proven track record.”*
Best for: Owners wanting a unique self-grooming feature, budget-conscious buyers, small spaces, as a secondary tree, cats who love rubbing on things.
Bottom line: ⭐⭐⭐½ — Most unique with self-grooming brush (newer product, fewer reviews).
Comparison Table: 3 Best Cat Trees with Toys
| Tree | Price | Height | Toy Features | Anti-Tip | Reviews | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heybly 43.3″ | $39.99 | 43.3″ | Teaser stick + plush ball with bell | ✅ Included | 11,264 | Best overall, interactive play |
| TWDEPART 37.5″ | $35.99 | 37.5″ | Toy balls | ❌ Not specified | 6,565 | Budget, cactus aesthetic |
| Smouatou 27.5″ | $26.99 | 27.5″ | Self-grooming brush + interactive toys | ✅ Reinforced base | 196 | Unique self-grooming feature |
How to Encourage Interactive Play on Cat Trees
Owner-Interactive Play Ideas
| Activity | How to Do It | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Teaser stick play | Use the included teaser stick (Heybly) to lure cat up and down the tree | Bonding, exercise, mental stimulation |
| Treat hunting | Hide treats on different levels of the tree | Encourages exploration, problem-solving |
| Toy rotation | Swap toy balls weekly to maintain interest | Prevents boredom |
| Catnip refresh | Rub catnip on perches and toys monthly | Renews interest in existing toys |
Solo Play Ideas
| Idea | How to Do It |
|---|---|
| Replace worn toys | When toy balls are destroyed, replace with new ones |
| Add hanging toys | Use toy replacements that attach to sisal posts |
| Self-grooming encouragement | Rub catnip on the self-grooming brush (Smouatou) |
DIY Toy Replacements
| If you lose or destroy… | DIY Replacement |
|---|---|
| Teaser stick | Tie a feather or toy to a string, attach to tree |
| Hanging ball | Use a bell on a string (supervise for safety) |
| Pom-pom | Craft store pom-pom with bell inside |
Dr. Jackson’s Play Recommendations
*”I recommend 15-20 minutes of interactive play twice daily for indoor cats. Use the teaser stick to mimic prey — move it like a mouse or bird, not just dangle it. Let your cat ‘catch’ the toy periodically to satisfy the hunting instinct. End play sessions with a treat or meal to complete the ‘hunt-catch-kill-eat’ sequence.”*
Frequently Asked Questions — Cat Tree with Toys
Are toys on cat trees safe for cats?
Yes, with supervision. Always inspect toys regularly for damage. Remove any toy balls that are torn or have loose parts. The Heybly’s ball with bell is designed to be quiet and safe.
How often should I replace toy balls?
| Usage Level | Replacement Frequency |
|---|---|
| Light play | Every 3-6 months |
| Moderate play | Every 1-3 months |
| Heavy play/aggressive chewer | Every 2-4 weeks |
My cat ignores the toys — what do I do?
| Reason | Solution |
|---|---|
| Toys are new | Give it time — cats are neophobic (fear new things) |
| No catnip response | Only 50-70% of cats respond to catnip; try silvervine instead |
| Owner not playing | Use teaser stick actively — don’t just leave toys hanging |
| Wrong toy type | Try different toy styles (feathers vs. balls vs. bells) |
Which tree has the best interactive toys for owners?
The Heybly 43.3″ includes a cat teaser stick specifically designed for owner-interactive play. This is rare in cat trees and encourages bonding.
Can I add my own toys to any cat tree?
Yes! You can:
- Tie feather toys to sisal posts
- Hang bells from perches
- Attach toy springs to platforms
- Place puzzle feeders on different levels
Which tree is best for solo play?
The Heybly (hanging ball with bell) and TWDEPART (toy balls) are both good for solo play. The Smouatou offers a self-grooming brush for solo sensory enrichment.
Is the self-grooming brush on the Smouatou effective?
Yes — cats naturally rub their faces on corners and objects. The self-grooming brush provides a safe, satisfying outlet for this behavior while removing loose fur. It’s a unique feature not found on most cat trees.
How tall should a cat tree with toys be?
| Ceiling Height | Recommended Tree Height |
|---|---|
| 8 ft (96″) | 43″ (Heybly) or 37.5″ (TWDEPART) |
| Low ceiling (7 ft) | 27.5″ (Smouatou) |
| Small space | 27.5″ (Smouatou) |
Final Verdict from Dr. Allona Jackson, DVM
“A cat tree without toys is like a playground without swings — it’s fine, but it’s not great. Here’s my bottom line:
By Cat/Household Type:
| Situation | Recommended Tree | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Most cat owners (interactive play) | Heybly 43.3″ | Teaser stick, anti-toppling, 11,264 reviews |
| Budget-conscious | TWDEPART 37.5″ | $35.99, cactus design, 6,565 reviews |
| Unique feature seeker | Smouatou 27.5″ | Self-grooming brush, 5-in-1, $26.99 |
My Top Pick Overall:
The Heybly 43.3″ at $39.99.
The teaser stick is the differentiator — it encourages owner-interactive play, which is one of the most important things you can do for your indoor cat’s mental health. Anti-toppling devices included, basket hammock for lounging, and 11,264 reviews for confidence. This is the complete package.
My Budget Pick:
The TWDEPART 37.5″ at $35.99. Cactus green design is fun and unique, 6,565 reviews prove it works, and toy balls provide solo entertainment. Just add an anti-tip kit for safety.
My Unique Feature Pick:
The Smouatou at $26.99. The self-grooming brush is genuinely innovative — cats love rubbing their faces on things. However, the low review count (196) means this is a newer product with less proven reliability. Buy with confidence from Amazon’s return policy.
Most Important Rules for Cat Trees with Toys:
1. Interactive play matters. A teaser stick is better than hanging balls alone. The Heybly includes one.
2. Rotate toys weekly. Cats get bored. Swap toy balls, add new ones, keep things fresh.
3. Anchor taller trees. The Heybly includes anti-toppling devices. For the TWDEPART, buy a universal kit ($10-15).
4. Inspect toys regularly. Replace damaged toy balls immediately to prevent ingestion.
5. Play with your cat daily. The tree is a tool — you’re the most important part of the equation.
— Dr. Allona Jackson, DVM”
Related Guides from AvailPet.com
- Cat Trees Ultimate Guide — complete resource on all 14 cat tree types
- Best Cat Enrichment Toys — standalone toys to pair with your tree
- Indoor Cat Enrichment Ideas — beyond the cat tree
- How to Get Your Cat to Use a Cat Tree — training tips
- Cat Tree with Hammock — for lounging lovers
