Which cat kicker toy size should you buy? Pick the 15 inch kicker for full grown cats who grab a toy with their front paws and bunny kick with their back legs. Pick the 11 inch kicker for kittens, small or senior cats, and cats who like to carry toys around in their mouth. Not sure? Get both sizes in one combo pack and let your cat decide.
What is a cat kicker toy?
A kicker toy is a long, stuffed toy your cat can hug with its front legs while kicking with its back legs, the same move cats use when they play fight or catch prey. Filling it with catnip gives your cat a reason to grab it, and the length gives those back legs something to kick. Kitty Kick Stix was founded in the USA in 2012, and every kicker is packaged in the USA.
11 inch vs 15 inch at a glance
| 11 inch kicker | 15 inch kicker | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Kittens, small and senior cats, carriers | Adult cats and big bunny kickers |
| Play style | Batting, pouncing, carrying, cuddling | Full body hug and bunny kicking |
| Why it works | Easy to pick up and carry | Long enough for all four legs at once |
| Shop | 11" kicker set | 15" kicker set |
How to tell which size your cat needs
- Watch how your cat plays. If they wrap around a toy and kick hard, go 15 inch. If they bat it, toss it and carry it off, go 11 inch.
- Think about body size. Larger cats can hold a 15 inch kicker with front paws while their back feet still reach it. Smaller cats and kittens handle the 11 inch more easily.
- Kittens grow fast. Many owners start with an 11 inch kicker and add a 15 inch once their kitten fills out.
- Multi-cat homes. A mix of sizes gives every cat a favorite and cuts down on toy stealing.
Keep your kicker fresh
Catnip scent fades over time. Refresh your kicker with a quick spritz of catnip spray or a rub of fresh dried catnip, and store it between play sessions in a resealable bag sized for 11 and 15 inch kickers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best cat kicker toy?
The best kicker is the one sized for your cat: 15 inch for adult cats who bunny kick, 11 inch for kittens and smaller cats, filled with fresh catnip so your cat actually wants to grab it.
Are kicker toys good for kittens?
Yes. An 11 inch kicker is a good fit for kittens. Most kittens don't react to catnip until around 3 to 6 months, but they still love to pounce on and kick the toy.
How do you refresh a catnip kicker toy?
Spray it lightly with catnip spray or rub dried catnip into the fabric, then store it in a sealed bag between sessions so the scent lasts longer.
Can dogs play with catnip toys?
Catnip is not toxic to dogs, but cat kicker toys are not built to survive dog chewing. If your dog grabs one, supervise and take it away before any stuffing comes out.
Ready to choose? Browse all catnip kicker toys or grab the combo pack to try both sizes.
