The Best Toys for Exotic Shorthair Kittens: Playtime Made Perfect
Exotic Shorthair kittens are sweet, squishy-faced bundles of fun—and while they may not be as hyperactive as some breeds, they still thrive on playtime that keeps them mentally and physically stimulated. Finding the right toys can help build your bond, burn energy, and even prevent boredom-based mischief.
Whether you’re a new kitten parent or preparing for your future furball, here’s how to choose the best toys for your Exotic Shorthair kitten.
1. Understand the Exotic Shorthair Personality
Exotic Shorthairs are playful, curious, and affectionate—but not overly demanding. They enjoy interactive play in short bursts and tend to prefer gentle games over roughhousing. The ideal toys appeal to their quiet but curious nature and allow for solo or shared play.
2. Best Toy Types for Exotic Shorthair Kittens
Interactive Wand Toys
Toys like Da Bird or feather teasers are ideal for interactive play. These allow your kitten to pounce, chase, and leap in a safe, fun way. Rotate the toys to keep things exciting.Kick and Wrestle Toys
Soft, stuffed toys like the Yeowww! Banana are great for wrestling, biting, and kicking. Some are filled with catnip—best enjoyed by older kittens (8 months+) and adults. Soft small balls that contain rattles or bells are fun for your furry companion.Tunnels and Hideouts
Collapsible tunnels or crinkle caves offer the perfect mix of play and retreat. Exotic Shorthairs love darting through tunnels and lounging in cozy spaces.Puzzle Feeders and Treat Balls
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical play. Puzzle feeders and rolling treat balls encourage your kitten to problem-solve while getting a tasty reward.Rolling Balls and Jingly Toys
Lightweight plastic balls or toys with bells can entertain kittens for hours. Just be sure they’re safe (no small parts that can break off).
3. Safety First: What to Avoid
Always supervise your kitten with new toys, and regularly check for wear and tear. Avoid:
Toys with strings or ribbons that can fray and be swallowed
Anything small enough to be a choking hazard
Toys with glued-on parts like eyes or beads
4. Rotate and Refresh
Kittens, like toddlers, can get bored with the same toys. Keep things exciting by rotating toys every few days. Hide a few in a drawer and reintroduce them later—your kitten will think it’s something new and exciting!
5. Playtime Is Bonding Time
Set aside time each day to play with your Exotic Shorthair. These quiet companions thrive on love and attention, and playtime helps you build trust while keeping your kitten active and happy. If you notice a time your kitten or cat gets the “zoomies” everyday that might be a good time to play with the wand with them. It’s interactive and gives you a chance to play with your cat.
6. My Favorite: FREE toys!!
Not every great cat toy comes from a store. Some of the best entertainment is found right at home and I love these and use them most of the time.
Cut-up empty toilet paper rolls
A small piece of paper towel rolled into a tight ball
Plastic bottle caps
Empty boxes in all shapes and sizes
Leather shoelaces tied securely to a cat tree or climber
Large craft pom-poms
Simple, safe, and often irresistible—free toys can provide hours of fun. Always monitor your kitten while playing and remove anything that may become unsafe over time.
Final Thoughts: Keep It Fun, Keep It Safe
Exotic Shorthair kittens may be mellow, but play is essential for their development and happiness. Choose toys that match their personality, rotate them regularly, and don’t forget—your attention is their favorite plaything of all. If you are able getting down on the floor on their level is great, whether it’s my cat’s or my kittens as soon as I sit down on the floor they come running over and know I’m there for cuddles, love, and play!
Want more Exotic Shorthair kitten tips? Follow along with our blog, and feel free to reach out with questions. We love sharing all things squishy-faced and sweet!