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Toy rotation: why fewer toys out works better
The rotation rule
International Cat Care's approach is simple: most of the toy collection lives in a drawer or box, and a small selection is out at any one time, swapped regularly to keep it interesting. For the small furry mouse-type toys many cats love, their playing guide adds a finer trick: have two or three on the go and hand them out one at a time, because a toy that has been thoroughly "killed" loses its appeal. Rotation day doubles as inspection day - retire anything with loose parts, torn fabric or exposed stuffing.
Catnip: a roll of the dice, not a guarantee
In Bol and colleagues' 2017 study of 100 domestic cats, 68 responded to catnip and 79 to silver vine. These are results from that sample, not a prediction for your cat. iCatCare suggests using a small amount of catnip for cats that enjoy it, or storing toys with it. Kittens under three months may not respond to catnip; this does not mean they cannot play with other toys. Do not force an interaction your cat avoids.
Novelty does not have to be bought
Offer a safe cardboard box or a paper bag with handles removed for optional exploration. Let the cat choose whether to approach. Check for sharp edges, loose parts and anything that could be swallowed. Do not introduce unidentified plants or materials as toys; the item must be suitable for cats.
Short attention is normal
Cats are sprinters: International Cat Care counts one minute of frenzied activity as a good result, after which a rest is normal. A cat who plays for two minutes and walks off has not rejected the toy - the burst is the play. Your job is to keep the options fresh so the next burst happens too.