I left New York City because I felt stuck in a job that was going nowhere. Now, after 6 years in Atlanta, I'm ready to leave.
Frank Sinatra delivered these words in "Theme from New York, New York," in 1978, which was echoed decades later in a soulful adaptation by JAY-Z and Alicia Keys—a testament to the big city's timeless pulse and promise.
The idea of making it in New York City became more than just a lyric; it was my quiet mantra during the time I lived there. It gave me confidence when I didn't always feel it and pushed me to show up as a professional, creative, and woman on a mission, determined to build something real.
Love Business Insider? Log into Google and make us a preferred source.
However, even with good friends, small wins, and a life that looked full on the outside, burnout still found me, eventually. The daily grind, constant motion, and quiet feelings of lack piled up slowly, and I began to wonder if I belonged.
Why I moved to New York City
I moved to New York in 2013, after first studying fashion design and marketing in Atlanta and then completing my Master of Fine Arts in Journalism in California in 2012.
I intended to break into the editorial world in New York. But when opportunities didn't materialize, I pivoted into digital marketing and e-commerce, contributing to campaigns across print and digital channels in the fashion and retail space.
I showed up day after day, and week after week for years. My calendar was filled with deadlines, meetings, side projects, and after-work events. To the outside world, I was thriving.
However, each new day in New York began to feel like a small war.
The big city wore me down
The battle could be choosing between two unreliable train lines from my Harlem apartment, or dodging early morning catcallers on my walk to the station. Still, even amid chaos, there were small moments of light.
On good days, the sunrise seeped into my apartment, lifting my spirits. By the end of the day, though, the delays, crowds, and the endless grind ran me ragged.
I thought getting my own space would help. So, after three years of living in a tiny shoebox of a room in a five-floor walk-up with two other roommates, I took a second job as a fashion marketing professor to afford my own space.
However, the 9 to 5 grind in my corporate role, followed by the 6 to 10 side hustle, only drained me more. There's a fine line between creative joy and depletion. After years of juggling two jobs, my body and mind demanded rest.
Plus, I'd been in my corporate role for five years with little opportunity for real growth or advancement.
In the end, I realized that the city that never sleeps offers little room to breathe, especially when you feel overworked, underpaid, and no longer valued in the place you thought you could grow.
A two-and-a-half-week sabbatical and trips abroad couldn't reset me. Even the thrill of Fashion Week, my favorite time of year, faded.
So I left. I needed warmth, not just in climate, but in my spirit.
Restarting in Atlanta was a challenge
I returned to Atlanta in the spring of 2019, but it wasn't how I'd remembered. I was nostalgic for the glam of Buckhead, the offbeat charm of Little Five Points, and the creative flavor of the Westside. But the streets had shifted. The beat of the city had changed, more polished in some places, more tense in others, but still rang true for artists, creatives, musicians, and the like.
Even with the rapid development and the strange sense of disconnect, I was still grateful. Grateful for a glimpse of something that once felt like mine. Maybe it was the promise of renewal. Or maybe the hope of tapping into a different kind of rhythm.
I took a job teaching fashion at my alma mater and continued virtually when the pandemic hit. I wanted more money and stability, though, so I took on second jobs.
I tried building something during the entrepreneurial boom of the pandemic, but my businesses didn't take off. It felt like a never-ending cycle of letdowns.
I wondered if I'd made a mistake coming here. Corporate fashion roles had been limited even when I returned to Atlanta, and after years of searching, they felt almost nonexistent. Freelance gigs paid some bills, but I never felt like part of a real team. Even the full-time corporate roles I landed never felt fully steady or secure, and I often found myself biding time, holding on, waiting for the right opportunity to return to something more fulfilling and more creative. Somewhere that felt like me again. Somewhere like New York.
Still, I've learned to find joy in smaller things
I've leaned on family, sought therapy, and gotten into fitness. I focused on my nutrition, building on the holistic lifestyle I'd embraced in New York.
I further deepened my commitment to health and wellness by studying supplements and minerals, and took pride in my physical growth through consistent weight training and strength work at the gym.
I began healing and growing more, exploring mindfulness on a deeper level by walking, reading, journaling, and at times simply sitting still to listen to my thoughts.
Atlanta doesn't match New York's energy, but it offers slower moments, and sometimes, that's what I need. I've found places to love here, but I find myself wondering more and more: What's next? Why has it been so hard? How much longer will I bide my time? And is New York truly on the horizon?
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Vogue
2 days ago
- Vogue
Forget Flip-Flops—Boots Are the Real Summer MVP, According to Street Style
The biggest trend to come out of the most recent international fashion weeks was the appropriation of big chunky boots as essential summerwear (we've also observed it on the streets of New York City and beyond). Whether anchoring breezy summer dresses or tucking in ultra-skinny jeans, here's how to pull off the look. Copenhagen, spring 2026 ready-to-wear Photographed by Acielle / StyleDuMonde
Business Insider
2 days ago
- Business Insider
Successful men say they can't start their mornings without exercise. Their essentials include lots of Nike gear and ChatGPT.
No matter the industries they work in, successful men like to start their days with workouts. While exercising, many of them opt for Nike clothes and accessories, as they told Business Insider. Some also use technology like ChatGPT and Whoop wristbands to enhance their regimens. Mark Wahlberg works out in gym sneakers that he designed. Lenny Kravitz opts for leather pants while lifting. The rest of us stick with Nike shoes and Lululemon shorts. That includes successful men across tech, finance, and other industries, who told Business Insider that they can't start their days without exercise. Here's a look at their gym essentials, from popular clothes to expensive tech. Antonio White, 38, uses technology to his advantage while exercising. White is the founder of 480 Advisors, an executive brand development agency. He previously worked as a deputy assistant secretary of community engagement at the US Treasury Department. Most days, he wakes up around 5 a.m. and makes time for a morning workout. With the help of ChatGPT, he combines strength training, walking, and yoga. "People may laugh at it, but it gives me an opportunity to track my progress," White told Business Insider. "Instead of using a notebook like most people who go to the gym, I log it right into ChatGPT. I look at it as a virtual personal trainer." He pays $20 a month for a subscription to the app and said he mainly uses it at the gym. He also uses YouTube for free workout videos. "I finish my workouts with a core exercise," he said. "I usually find an influencer on YouTube who has a 10-minute video, and I'll put it on my phone and prop it up on a stand in the corner of the gym." While working out, he wears a mix of Converse and Nike pieces. White said he typically pairs an old concert T-shirt with $55 mesh Nike shorts to exercise. "It's so basic, but I love Nike. It's my absolute favorite," he said. "The message of victory really appeals to me." He also wears various Nike sneakers for some exercises, but swaps them out during strength training. He prefers Converse's $110 Run Star Hike platform sneakers. "The shoes have made a big difference in my strength development," he said. White uses Nike's $70 Elite Pro Basketball backpack to carry his sneaker options and other gear. Bobby Mollins, 35, is loyal to Lululemon. Mollins, a former Business Insider rising star in equity research, is the director of internet research at Gordon Haskett. He exercises six days a week with routines that include stretching, cycling, strength training, and running. No matter the exercise, though, he sports $78 Lululemon Metal Vent Tech T-shirts. He said they're more comfortable than any he's tried from competitors like Adidas and Ten Thousand. For shorts, he alternates between two Lululemon options: the $78 lined Pace Breaker shorts for the gym and cycling, and the $68 unlined Pace Breaker shorts for running. "I like the fit and various length options," Mollins said of the bottoms. "The lined shorts have a phone pocket, which keeps my phone from bouncing around, and it's also useful when walking my dog at night." His exercise accessories include sunglasses, sneakers, and a running vest. Mollins recently relocated to Miami, which led to some changes in his exercise gear. Namely, he added the $145 Salomon vest. "I never had to use a hydration vest while living in New York City or Boston," he said. "But with the heat and humidity in Miami, the vest makes marathon training a little bit easier — especially on 20-mile days." His $210 SR-1x glasses from Roka have become another staple. He said the shades are ideal for running and cycling, as they don't need much adjusting while on the move. He also appreciates the brand's customization options on its website. Mollins uses a Peloton bike and a Garmin watch to guide and track his exercise. Mollins often cycles on his $4,499 SuperSix EVO 3 bike. However, he prefers not to use it when it's icy in New York or on sandy roads in Miami. That's where his $1,445 Peloton bike comes in. The device allows him to cycle indoors, while the companion app provides guided workouts. "I use it all the time," he said of the latter, noting that he has a 129-week streak. "I frequently take stretching and yoga classes, and have done a lot of the meditations offered." Additionally, Mollins likes to wear Garmin's $599 Forerunner 965 watch during all exercises. He uses it to track his workouts, heart rate, sleep, and more. Samuel Garcia, 31, said he hasn't looked back after trying Hoka sneakers. Samuel Garcia was named a Business Insider rising star of venture capital last year for his work as a partner at Amplo. The first thing he prioritizes each morning is aerobic exercise, like biking, swimming, using an elliptical, or running. If doing the latter, he always wears a $30 Nike Dri-Fit top. "I'm typically running five or six miles, and normal cotton shirts feel like they sometimes rub my skin raw," he said. "My Nike shirts have been pretty gentle on the skin, so I've appreciated that." Another exercise essential he swears by is the $155 Clifton 10 Hoka sneaker. A doctor recommended the shoes to Garcia after he broke a toe, and he's been "extremely loyal" to the brand ever since. "It was the first time I'd had a doctor recommend me any type of shoe, and I haven't had any issues since," he said. "I tried walking in other shoes and it was decently painful. But when I put the Hokas on, I felt little to no pain. So now I've been wearing them for years, kind of religiously." Brannon Jones, 31, pairs his Lululemon athletic clothes with wearable tech. Brannon Jones, another Business Insider rising star of venture capital, works at AlleyCorp. He usually wakes up around 5:15 a.m. and hits the gym by 6:30 a.m. While there, he opts for high-intensity training that he's modified from his college football days — or he takes a CrossFit class. "Even though I lift a lot, I like to wear a lot of running gear. I find that it's very light and I feel super mobile," he said, adding that Lululemon makes his favorite shorts and tank tops. He also brings his Hydro Flask water bottle (with a $13 Wide Mouth Flex Chug Cap) to each workout, and wears his Whoop wristband and Apple Watch. "The Apple Watch is so functional for workouts," he said. "You can time yourself, see your heart rate, all of that. The Whoop goes a little bit deeper in terms of helping me understand my longer-term strain and recovery." Chase Dwyer, 28, prefers to keep his gym outfits simple. Chase Dwyer founded Carbon Ridge, a company that develops carbon capture technology for the maritime shipping industry. Speaking with Business Insider, he said fitness is a core part of his morning routine. Whether cycling, running, or visiting the gym, he often wears a $58 Tuvalu tee from Vuori with $75 Nike Dri-Fit shorts. "It's simple," he said of his gym wardrobe. "Generally, when it comes to what I wear these days, I've reverted to things that take as little time as possible to think about, but still match my style and look good." He also said he's "run through a number" of $220 4T2 weekdays sneakers, and carries any extra supplies — like his black Owala water bottle — in his $219 Db Journey backpack. Modi Oyewole, 38, swears by Nike. Modi Oyewole has spent his career working for athletic brands and record labels. Now, though, he's the founder of the golf community Swang. He works out multiple times each week, spending three days with a trainer and using ClassPass options in between. He told Business Insider that he wears a lot of Lululemon while exercising, but is an even bigger fan of Nike. He uses an oversize tote from the brand to carry his protein shake, water, and Crocs, and he wears Nike Metcons, which range between $155 and $175 per pair.
Business Insider
2 days ago
- Business Insider
The best cat toys, tested and reviewed
The best cat toys are the closest thing a house cat gets to unleashing their inner predator — aside from the occasional housefly, of course. Whether it's a catnip kicker, crinkly ball, or feather wand, toys give cats a healthy outlet for their natural hunting instincts, making it less likely that they'll turn your hands, feet, or furniture into prey. When providing interactive play, always end the session with a small treat or meal to complete the hunting experience. Between professionally testing cat products, fostering, cat sitting, and being a lifelong cat mom, I've handled more cat toys than I can count. Drawing on that experience, I narrowed our testing pool to 30 standout toys, recruiting a panel of Business Insider cats and their humans to help assess them all. With input from experts, the toys in this guide were chosen for their ability to spark a cat's natural hunting behavior while standing up to cat claws and teeth. Our top pick is the SnugglyCat Ripple Rug, which features an adaptable design that caters to nearly every cat's unique play style and preferences. If you're still figuring out what kind of toy excites your cat the most, The Original Cat Dancer is also a good place to start. It comes recommended by cat behavior and retention specialist Rachel Geller for its unpredictable, bug-like movements, and costs just $3.99. Our top picks for the best cat toys Best overall: SnugglyCat Ripple Rug - See at Chewy Best wand: Pet Fit For Life Interactive Wand Bundle - See at Chewy Best mouse: Hartz Cattraction with Silvervine and Catnip - See at Amazon Best automatic: Potaroma 3-in-1 Hide-and-Seek Cat Toy - See at Amazon Best catnip kicker: Yeowww! Chi-Cat-a Banana - See at Chewy Best crinkle: SunGrow Mylar Crinkle Balls - See at Chewy Best ball: Franklin Table Tennis Balls - See at Chewy Best puzzle overall: Nina Ottosson Rainy Day Puzzle and Play - See at Chewy Best overall What we like Engages multiple instincts Versatile play options Suitable for cats of all ages and physical abilities Durable Non-slip backingNon-slip backing Instead of thinking of toys as just entertainment, it can help to see these items as tools, or, as veterinary behaviorist Dr. Carlo Siracusa calls them, "the essential toolkit for cat behavior." The Ripple Rug isn't a toy in the typical sense. It's an all-in-one cat playground that taps into almost every feline instinct and hunting style: stalking, pouncing, hiding, scratching, foraging, and even lounging. It features two layers of carpet — a bottom with a non-slip backing and a top with hidey holes. Cats or toys can pop out of the openings, or you can stash treats between the layers. My cats love slipping through the holes and bunching up the rug for rabbit kicking, which the carpet is durable enough to handle. Other than taking up nearly 12 square feet of floor space, the rug's main drawback is the need for additional toys to maximize enrichment, like a feathered teaser wand to weave through the openings. Lily Alig, former Business Insider Reviews kitchen editor, enjoyed the rug's adaptability, using its detachable layer to create tunnels for her cats Salem and Luna. When Salem burrows inside and is jumped on by Luna, Lily can just reform the tunnel to reset the play. Best wand A cat without toys isn't just bored — they're missing out on an essential part of being a cat. Without a way to act out their natural hunting sequence (including stalking, capturing, and killing), cats are deprived of behaviors as essential to them as daily movement is to us. Over time, that lack of stimulation can lead to stress and unwanted behaviors. "A lot of the conflicts that we see between cats or cats and people are stress-related," Siracusa says. Interactive wand toys are an especially effective way to satisfy your cat's instincts and get them moving. Because you control the speed and direction, you can mimic the way prey would behave, like dancing away from your cat instead of moving toward them, Geller says. She recommends the Pet Fit For Life Wand, which has a plush foam handle, a metal wand, and an extra extension piece to make the wand even longer. That added reach keeps your hands safely out of the play zone. Different cats — and even the same cat on different days — will gravitate to different textures and movements, Siracusa says. In Geller's experience and for our tester's cats, the Pet Fit For Life feather attachment was the clear favorite, while my cats were just as excited about the worm. To cover all your bases, the Pet Fit For Life bundle comes with an easy-on/off metal clasp and four interchangeable attachments — a worm, two feather attachments, and a mouse with feathers. Always put wand toys away between play sessions to prevent accidental tangles or chewing. Best mouse Mouse toys are a classic choice for cat parents because they look like a cat's most iconic prey. Our experts say that toys mimicking real prey in size and texture can spark your cat's hunting instincts. Hartz Cattraction with Silver Vine and Catnip Kitty Frenzy mice are the best mouse cat toys we tested because they're stuffed with catnip and silvervine, which trigger a burst of playful energy in many cats. After that initial excitement fades, cats often like to cuddle up with or even lick their "prey". These mice don't make a satisfying rattle when shaken, which would help to grab a cat's attention and spark their drive to chase. That said, no sound at all is often better than loud squeaks, especially for timid cats. "Loud electronic squeaks may frighten more than entice," says Dr. Aimee Warner, a veterinarian at Waggel. Constructed from hollow plastic wrapped in soft fabric, they're sturdy yet lightweight enough for cats to carry or slide across floors. Rather than hard plastic eyes and nose that could come loose and be ingested, these mice feature soft felt pieces that are glued in place. I pulled firmly on the ears, tail, seams, and felt details, and everything stayed securely attached. "Usually cats try to grab the object, the prey, and run away with it," Siracusa says. "So it's important that it is safe." Best automatic Each morning, my cat Atlas waits patiently for me to switch on her favorite toy, the Potaroma 3-in-1 Hide-and-Seek Cat Toy. This has been part of her routine for over two years. We love it so much that I've gifted one to my brother-in-law's cats and recommended it to several friends. It has a motorized butterfly that spins and flutters on top and a fluffy toy that circles unpredictably under a fabric cover. "Motorized 'prey under fabric' mats invite low-impact, extended activity — perfect for calorie burn without joint stress," Warner says. The butterfly moves realistically, and the hidden toy pops out with an element of surprise. "If the toy always moves in the same way, the cat will quickly realize it isn't real prey and lose interest," says Heather Alvey, certified cat behavior consultant and owner of Felidae Behavior Consulting. The best automatic cat toys don't run endlessly, Siracusa says. "If you leave the game going and the cat can't grab anything, the cat will lose interest and might even become frustrated." While cats can bite the butterfly and fluffy toy, the Potaroma also stops automatically after five minutes of inactivity. It stays in standby mode for two hours, so your cat can reactivate it with a touch. I typically charge it overnight about every three days, turning it on twice daily for my cats to enjoy. Replacement toy attachments are sold separately. Best teaser wire Cat Dancer Products Original Cat Dancer This affordable cat toy uses springy wire and soft cardboard ends to mimic unpredictable bug-like movements. Check price at Amazon Check price at Petco What we like Springy wire creates random, lifelike movements Affordable Rolled cardboard ends satisfy cats' urge to bite Expert recommended Providing your cat with the best toys isn't about having the fanciest ones, Siracusa says. What matters more is finding toys that entice your cat to play and give them a chance to complete the hunting sequence. Enter the Original Cat Dancer — a $4 piece of metal wire with rolled cardboard on each end. "Does your cat love chasing moths? Try the Cat Dancer," Alvey says. Its secret is the springy wire that makes the cardboard rods bounce unpredictably, like a real bug. For our cat tester Chowder, the Cat Dancer isn't just a toy — it's an obsession. Chowder becomes completely locked in when the Cat Dancer is in motion, like a fly buzzing around the room. When it's put away, he whines for its return. The soft cardboard gives your cat something satisfying to bite or claw into, fulfilling the "kill" part of the hunt. Geller recommends letting your cat successfully grab the toy in their mouth or paws before starting the game again. "Real prey might lose stamina during the hunt or play dead to trick the cat," she says. These little captures are what trigger feel-good chemicals. The soft cardboard also gives your cat something satisfying to bite or claw, fulfilling the "kill" part of the hunt. Geller recommends letting your cat successfully grab the toy in their mouth or paws before starting the game again. "Real prey might lose stamina during the hunt or play dead to trick the cat," she says. These little captures are what trigger feel-good chemicals. I've gone through several Cat Dancers over the years, since determined cats can eventually rip the cardboard off. But for its low price, it's an easy toy to replace when the old one finally gives out. For a deeper dive into what makes it a fan fave for one editor's cat, check out our Cat Dancer review. Best ring Some cats will turn just about anything into a toy — milk rings, bread ties, you name it. It's entertaining to see them get creative, and it might save you a few bucks on toys. But those household items aren't designed to hold up to rough play or a cat's teeth and claws. They can break into small pieces or cause an intestinal blockage. Fat Cat Cat Crazies are a safer, more durable alternative. These colorful rings skitter and slide across the floor like little bugs. I can twist and tug them without snapping them apart. After a few years of tossing these rings across our house, I still haven't found a single broken one. My cat goes wild when they zip across the tile floor, sending her sliding after them on her furry paws. Sometimes I'll add the Ripple Rug to the mix so the ring skips over the carpet before gliding onto the hardwood. Your cat might even retrieve the ring and bring it back to you, ready for another round. The rings will definitely end up under your stove or couch, but at around $4 for a pack of four, it's a small price to pay. Best catnip kicker Yeowww! is well-known for making cat kicker toys that many cats love. They use only catnip leaves and flower tops for maximum strength — a combination that revs many cats up. I especially like their rainbow and banana kickers because they have a slight curve. Warner says curved kickers hug the belly, making them easier for cats to grab and hold compared to straight ones. Our tester Chowder was particularly enthusiastic about her banana kicker. "She likes to get super 'high' on it and bounce around the house. I'm not sure if she enjoys the catnip or the toy more, but she's having fun," says her human, Lauren Savoie, Insider Reviews deputy executive editor. While my cats might not bounce around the room the house after playing with their rainbow kicker, they certainly enjoy intense bunny kicking sessions, often pausing to bite and lick the toy between kicks. "Kicking with the back legs is a behavior cats will use with larger prey, like if they catch a rabbit," Siracusa says. With all that kicking power, you need a kicker that's built to last. Yeowww! toys are made of sturdy twill with strong seams, and their catnip stays impressively potent. The best cat kicker toys are large enough for your cat to firmly grasp and kick with their back legs, about 8 to 10 inches, Warner says. The Yeowww! rainbow and banana kickers measure 6 and 7 inches, respectively. Best crinkle These crinkle balls have been a longtime favorite of our feline tester. They make a soft rustling sound and have an irresistible texture. "Papaya loves the noise these crinkle toys make! She especially enjoys when we squish them in our hands to create fun sounds before tossing them for a few minutes of batting and kicking," says her human, Sally Kaplan, Insider Reviews executive editor. According to Siracusa, short bursts of play — about three to five minutes — are ideal for cats. As soon as their interest starts to fade, it's the perfect moment to wrap up with a treat or a small meal for a satisfying "game over" in the hunting sequence. Each pack comes with 12 brightly colored crinkle balls. Papaya has been enjoying hers for years without any shredding or damage. Each ball measures about 1 1/2 to 2 inches in diameter, meeting Warner's safety guideline to avoid any toy smaller than 1 1/4 inches across. Best ball What we like Affordable Unpredictable bounce Durable and resistant to chewing or tearing Suitable for solo or interactive play Specifics Best for:Stalking, chasing, pouncing, pawing, batting Materials:Plastic When your cat prefers a ball with a little more oomph, a ping pong ball might do the trick. I like to bounce them off the floor or send them rolling down the stairs. My cat Lyra will leap into the air trying to swat them down, and both cats love chasing them down the stairs, only for the balls to ricochet and bounce off in a new direction. Ping pong balls aren't ideal if your cat wants to retrieve the toy, but they're a smart choice for cats who chew or try to ingest softer materials. Siracusa says if your cat happily bats and chases them, ping pong balls work well. You can also make an enrichment game for your cat by adding them to a cake pan filled with shallow water, creating an extra challenge when your cat tries to scoop them out from an unstable surface. Best food puzzle toy overall Daily food enrichment is essential to the emotional well-being of cats and supports their natural behaviors of hunting, foraging, and eating multiple small meals. Food puzzle toys dispense food or treats when manipulated and allow cats to think through challenges in a physically active way, says Dr. Jamie Richardson, head of veterinary medicine at Small Door Vet. Food puzzles range from beginner to expert levels, and Geller recommends the Nina Ottosson Rainy Day Puzzle and Play as an expert-level challenge — but don't let that intimidate you or your cat. What I love about this puzzle is how adjustable it is to many skill levels. I introduced this puzzle slowly to my less food-motivated cat Atlas to keep her engaged without frustrating her, which Siracusa says can look like giving up or walking away. At first, I placed kibble in the open wells, then started covering some with the swiveling raindrops. Once she got the hang of that, I added the spinning wheel. Now she's solving the scent peg challenge, which requires her to move the peg over the well to release the food within, then shift it again to reach the prize. Janelle Leeson/Business Insider There are lots of ways for your cat to use this puzzle, which is exactly what makes it such a worthwhile buy. Atlas has been working on it for a few years now, and it also works with wet food. On special occasions, we'll squeeze Churu treats into a few compartments. It has no removable parts, which can easily become lost. The shallow wells and raindrop shapes take a little extra effort to scrub with a sponge, but I find it easier to clean than other puzzles we've tried with narrow tubes or deep ridges. Best easy food puzzle toy Catit Senses Food Tree The Catit Senses Food Tree encourages your cat to move for their food without being too challenging for novices. Check price at Chewy What we like Encourages movement Slows down fast eaters Good for beginners What we don't like Doesn't work with wet food May be too physically demanding for cats with limited mobility Specifics Best for:Foraging, problem solving, pawing, batting Materials:Plastic Even though this puzzle is ideal for beginners or cats who get frustrated by moving parts, your cat will still have to work for their reward. The three-tiered Catit Senses Food Tree encourages them to sit up, paw, and bat for their food. They may even need to circle around it to find the best angle to reach their treats. Siracusa says some of the best food puzzles for cats are the ones that get them moving. To use this puzzle, pour kibble or crunchy treats into the top. As the pieces fall through, they land within the staggered levels, which feature slots. It's up to your cat to reach in through small holes to pull the food out or push it downward, level by level, until it finally drops into the dish at the base. Janelle Leeson/Business Insider The Food Tree doesn't work with wet food, but the openings are large enough to fit many kinds and sizes of treats and kibbles. It's easy to take apart and wash by hand. Best ball on track Catstages Chase Meowtain Interactive 4-Tier Cat Track Toy This ball track toy offers a low-impact hunt for cats, whether they prefer to lounge and bat or circle and chase. Check price at Chewy Check price at Amazon What we like Safer to leave out for solo play Non-slip feet help keep it in place Low-impact play can be great for lower-energy or mobility-challenged cats What we don't like Slides around a bit on hard floors despite non-slip feet Some cats may lose interest in the repetitive movement Recommended for cats 12 weeks and older Specifics Best for:Batting, pawing, chasing Materials:Plastic Cats often lose interest in toys when they move too repetitively or predictably. "Unpredictable movement is key," says Dr. Sarah Cortright, chief medical director of the Under Dog Community Project. Still, lower-energy adults, cats with mobility challenges, and kittens may enjoy the low impact of ball track toys — something I saw firsthand while fostering a semi-socialized cat who'd just given birth to five kittens. She was exhausted and wary of people, and no toy seemed to catch her eye. That is, until one day, I heard the rhythmic clack of the roller ball track toy. The Catstages Chase Meowtain features four circular tiers, each with a lightweight plastic ball that circles its track. Some cats like to lie on their sides and lazily bat the balls, like my foster kitty. Others sit and paw at them, watching and waiting for the ball to circle the track for the next swat. More engaged cats might walk or sprint around the pyramid for a more active play session. Janelle Leeson/Business Insider The balls aren't removable from the track, so there's no risk of losing them under the couch. In fact, there are no small or removable parts, wires, or strings, which makes this one of the best cat toys to leave out for solo play. It has non-slip feet, though it still slides around a bit on hard surfaces. Best tunnel Kitty City Cat Tunnel This rustling tunnel encourages cats to hide, stalk, and ambush, then doubles as a cozy nap spot once the hunt is over. Check price at Chewy Check price at Amazon What we like Rustling material enhances stimulation Two entrances/exits Cushioned bed offers a resting spot after play Versatile configurations What we don't like Cats may pounce on passing feet without the addition of interactive play Takes up floor space Tunnel portion is spot-clean only Specifics Best for:Hiding, stalking, pouncing, swatting, chasing, wrestling, lounging Materials:Wire frame, polyester tunnel cover, fiberfill bed In the wild, cats spend a lot of time stalking their prey and pouncing at them from under cover. A cat tunnel can create that feeling for your cat, down to the sound of tall grass subtly rustling. As my cats race through the Kitty City Cat Tunnel Bed, it rustles just enough to mimic the thrill of sneaking through vegetation. It has two entrances, each with a dangling toy, though my cats are usually too busy stalking and pouncing on passing wands and teasers to pay them much notice. Don't underestimate the importance of interactive play alongside the tunnel. You don't want your movement to be the only thing that looks like live prey, Siracusa says. A tunnel offers cats a place to hide and plan ambushes, but it's up to you to direct that hunting instinct toward toys — not your feet or ankles. Janelle Leeson/Business Insider When the "hunt" is over, reward your cat with a treat before allowing them to curl up in the cozy bed at the tunnel's center before the next hunt. The Kitty City Cat Tunnel Bed also took top honors in the tunnel category in our guide to the best cat beds, where it won praise for its versatility and dual uses for lounging and play. Best subscription KitNip KitNipBox The KitNip monthly cat toy subscription box is a fun way to explore a variety of high-quality toys and treats, helping you discover what your cat enjoys. Check price at KitNip What we like Great way to discover what types of toys and play styles your cat prefers Can swap treats for an extra toy Choose from three box sizes to fit your budget and number of cats No long-term commitment What we don't like Limited customization options Some cats may still ignore certain toys despite the variety Little information on website about treat options Specifics Pricing:Starting at $25.99 per box per month Customizable:Can exchange treats for an extra toy Shipping cost:Free What's included:5 items; 4 toys plus a treat (or swap for a fifth toy), larger boxes are also available If you've made it to the end of this best cat toys roundup and still feel unsure where to start — or if it seems like your cat doesn't like anything you've tried — a subscription box can be a smart way to discover what excites them. "Don't give up," says Siracusa. "Don't just try one or two toys because they're popular. If your cat doesn't like them, it doesn't matter. We're all different, and cats are too." Even if you don't stick with it long-term, a few deliveries can help pinpoint your cat's play style. If you do find toys that are a hit with your cat, rotating toys every few days can help maintain novelty. With the KitNipBox, five new cat items arrive monthly, with 5% of the proceeds supporting animal welfare. You can pick larger boxes if you'd like more toys, and cancel anytime before the next charge. The variety and quality of toys in my first box really impressed me, and my cats were instantly drawn to all of them. The second box, however, was less exciting, with fewer unique toys, though Atlas still happily purred as I unpacked it. While this suggests the boxes may lack variety some months, all the toys are designed in-house, which makes each box feel special. Janelle Leeson/Business Insider Our first Happy Cat Box, intended for one cat, included a two-pack of '90s-inspired catnip-filled hair scrunchies, a sisal and raffia chew toy (Lyra went straight for this), two strong catnip kickers, and a wand with a long ribbon, bell, and sturdy wooden handle (my cats' favorite). The featured treats were Vitakraft lick treats made with salmon broth, salmon, and other meats, and just 8 calories each. A lick mat was included for serving, but you can swap the treats for an extra toy instead. The second box was packed mostly with plush kicker toys, one of them filled with catnip, plus crunchy Emerald Pet Feline Dental Treats. Despite the lack of variety in my second box, it's worth giving KitNip a chance if you're striking out elsewhere, don't know where to start, or just want to mix things up for your cat. What to look for in cat toys The word "toys" doesn't fully capture how important playthings are for cats. "Playful behavior is something that is part of the nature of cats themselves, because it allows them to kill animals multiple times throughout the day," Siracusa says. My experts recommend choosing toys that spark your cat's hunting instincts. This way, they can complete their "hunt" and won't seek out other, less desirable activities or outlets. Here are the key qualities of the best cat toys to help channel your cat's instincts: Biologically appropriate features: Experts agree that the best cat toys tap into a cat's instinct to hunt. When evaluating a toy, consider: Movement: Does it move sporadically and realistically, or can you manipulate the toy to mimic the motion of prey? "The best automated toys move erratically, stop and start, or hide under fabric — like a mouse scurrying under a blanket," Cortright says. Automatic toys should also be designed to be caught by the cat to prevent frustration. When it comes to the best teasers and wands, look for wires that bounce or feathers that flutter. "Prey doesn't dangle in a cat's face or bop them on the side," Alvey says. Functionality: Does the toy inspire stalking, chasing, pouncing, biting, foraging, or hiding? These are all important activities that allow your cat to be a cat. Design: Does it resemble real prey in size, shape, or texture? Look for fur-like fabric, feathers, or crinkly materials. Surprise: Are there moving or disappearing elements, like toys that pop out from fabric or tunnels? "Predictability is a fast death for interest," Warner says. Safety and durability: Cat toys are meant to be hunted and "killed" through chasing, pouncing, biting, and kicking, so they need to hold up to rough play. According to my experts, these safety guidelines will help keep your cat safer while playing: Choose toys without small parts like beaded eyes, noses, or foam pieces. Check seams and parts regularly by gently pulling on them. Toss any toy with loose pieces or exposed stuffing. Avoid toys smaller than 1 ¼ inches in diameter, Warner says. Anything smaller can be swallowed and cause choking or a blockage. Store anything with long strings out of reach (like wands) until supervised playtime. Safer options for solo play include catnip kickers, soft mice, and rubber balls. Suitability for your cat's age and physical abilities: Siracusa says kittens prefer social play — like chasing, wrestling, and mock fighting — but few toys truly replicate that. A simple mouse toy can come close for kittens who like to retrieve. On the other hand, adult cats develop their own hunting styles and usually prefer object play, using toy objects to practice their skills. If you have an aging cat or a cat with mobility issues, you'll likely need to adjust both the toys you choose and how you play. A senior cat with arthritis in their back legs, for example, may not want to bunny kick a catnip toy or jump after a wand. Warner says in these cases, try low-impact toys like treat balls, slow-feed puzzles, and motorized "prey under fabric" mats. You can also adapt your wand play by scooting the toy under a blanket or engaging your cat with slow, low movements of the toy so your senior isn't forced to overextend their arms. Siracusa says a change in how often or how engaged a cat is in play can be a normal part of aging. However, any sudden changes in play or activity level should be discussed with your veterinarian. He says diseases as common as dental disease can make play painful for cats. Enticing extras: Some plants, including catnip, silvervine, and valerian, release chemicals meant to keep plant-eating insects away. But for cats, the effect is anything but threatening. Sniffing it sends many cats into a state of joy: rubbing their heads on objects, rolling around, and purring in what scientists dub the "catnip response." Not every cat feels the same euphoria from catnip. However, our experts say fresh dried buds and cut leaves are often more exciting than powdered catnip. Sound and texture matter, too. Crinkle materials can mimic the rustling of prey through grass, triggering a cat's hunting instincts. The texture adds tactile interest. However, loud squeakers or motors could be scary rather than fun to some cats. How we tested the best cat toys Janelle Leeson/Business Insider I'm a lifelong cat parent, including one cat with orthopedic issues, and I've fostered nearly 50 cats and kittens. I know firsthand how selective cats can be, and how rough they can be on their toys. To get a wide range of opinions, I recruited six Insider Reviews editors and reporters and their cats to help test the best cat toys. We tested over 30 cat toys, taking note of their features, our cats' level of enthusiasm, and how they held up to play. Some toys were tested in multiple households. Here's the approach we took: Safety and Durability: We inspected every toy straight out of the box, checking for small parts, glued-on pieces, or fabric trim that could come loose. We gently tugged on any attachments to see if they detached easily. For soft or fabric toys, we pulled and twisted them to test the seams and stitching. We also bent or lightly compressed plastic components to see if they cracked, warped, or popped apart. For electronic toys, we let the battery run all the way down to measure battery life, then noted how long it took to recharge. During play, we watched closely for wear and tear. Biologically appropriate features: Based on expert advice, we awarded points to toys that triggered a cat's hunting instincts, such as ones that wiggled, fluttered, or moved erratically. We checked each design to see if it looked like real prey in size, shape, or texture. We preferred toys with details like feathers, fur-like fabric, or a crinkly feel. Finally, we also gave high marks to toys that offered an element of surprise, like components that popped out from tunnels or disappeared under fabric. Subscription boxes: In addition to evaluating the toys themselves, I evaluated each cat toy subscription based on ease of sign-up, customization of the plan, and ability to swap toys for other toys or treats. I also checked whether the service provided clear shipping and delivery notifications and whether you could easily pause deliveries or cancel the subscription. Cat toys FAQs Gabrielle Chase/Business Insider What toys do cats like the most? Play is all about hunting, so the best cat toys are ones that look, move, smell, and/or sound like real prey. "Wand toys, crinkle balls, and kicker toys are among the most popular cat toys," Cortright says. What toys are best for indoor cats? Toys that encourage your indoor cat to move and practice their natural hunting skills help keep them physically fit, and protect your feet, hands, furniture, and other pets from becoming their "prey". "Cats typically prefer soft textures like plush or felt, and movements that are fast, fluttery, or unpredictable," Cortright says. How do I figure out what toys my cat likes? It can take some trial and error to figure out which toys your cat likes best, but Alvey has a helpful tip: "Observe what your cat is already interested in and find toys that mimic those experiences," she says. For example, if your cat likes chasing bugs, a wand toy with fluttering feathers or a toy like the Cat Dancer might be a great fit. If they enjoy breaking into cupboards, try a challenging food puzzle. If your cat is known to shred toilet paper rolls, a catnip-filled kicker toy can satisfy their need to kick and bite. You can also explore DIY food puzzle options and see examples of commercial food puzzles rated by difficulty level through this cat food puzzle resource. What toys make cats lose weight? Any toy that gets your cat up and moving can help them lose weight. Wand toys, like the Pet Fit For Life wand, are a great choice because you control how vigorously the "prey" moves. Even if your cat only walks behind the toy at first, that's a good start. The Catit Senses Food Tree even encourages your cat to circle around the puzzle to bat pieces of food. What kind of toys do senior cats like? Even older cats enjoy playtime, but they often prefer gentler activities due to lower energy or mobility issues. Many senior cats like toys they can bat at rather than pounce on or chase. You can adapt your play style to accommodate their mobility by playing closer to the floor. Watching a toy move slowly can be just as enriching for cats as leaping through the air. Ultimately, you know your cat best. Consider their unique preferences and physical abilities when choosing the best cat toys. Janelle Leeson Freelance Writer Janelle Leeson is a Portland, Oregon-based contributor for Insider Reviews, where she tests and writes about products for pets. She holds a bachelor of science in biology and transitioned to freelance writing after a decade-long career in the field. Her approach to pet care writing and reporting is rooted in scientific principles which consider a pet's biological need for play, proper nutrition, and environmental enrichment. In addition to writing about animal health, behavior, and nutrition, Janelle also writes about sustainability, beauty, and fashion. Her work on pets and other topics appears at Daily Paws, Great Pet Care, Rover, Shop Today, USA Today Reviewed, Fetch by The Dodo, and elsewhere. Her work has also appeared in print in Inside Your Dog's Mind, Inside Your Cat's Mind, and Paw Print magazines. You can find Janelle on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. Read more You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here. Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at reviews@
