There’s no shortage of cat products out there — from space-age litter boxes to $300 “smart” toys that get ignored in five minutes. If you’ve ever scrolled Amazon or a pet store site wondering what’s actually worth buying, this list is for you.
Over the years, I’ve tested everything from the ultra-practical to the utterly pointless. The products below are the ones that have stood the test of time in my home — the ones that actually make daily cat life better, easier, or at the very least, more peaceful. They’re simple, affordable, and not overhyped. Just solid, thoughtful upgrades your cat will genuinely appreciate (even if they never say thank you).
1. A Good Water Fountain (Yes, It Makes a Difference)
Cats aren’t great drinkers — not in a hydration sense, at least. Most don’t drink enough water from bowls, which can lead to urinary issues or kidney stress, especially as they age. A quiet, circulating fountain often changes that. It draws them in, keeps the water fresher, and makes hydration more appealing.
What I look for in a good fountain: It needs to be quiet, because I don’t want something that sounds like a fish tank filter in the kitchen. It also needs to be easy to clean, with replaceable filters that don’t cost as much as the fountain itself. There are plenty out there that check those boxes, and I’ve linked my current favorite below.
2. Simple Interactive Toys for Indoor Cats
Indoor cats have it good — but they still get bored. Without trees to climb or prey to chase, they need something to engage their brains and bodies. If not, you’ll start to notice late-night zoomies, weight gain, or passive-aggressive furniture destruction.
The best toys I’ve found aren’t necessarily the most high-tech. My cats love motion-activated toys that spark their curiosity without constant human interaction. Lightweight toys that they can swat across the floor and chase on their own are surprisingly effective, too. The key is keeping things simple and engaging — no app required.
3. Scratching Options That Actually Save Furniture
Scratching is baked into your cat’s DNA. They’re not doing it to spite you — they’re stretching, sharpening, marking territory. The trick isn’t to stop it (you can’t), but to redirect it somewhere acceptable.
I’ve learned that the best scratchers are both sturdy and diverse. That means they stay upright during wild attacks and offer different angles — vertical posts, horizontal boards, maybe even ramps. Bonus points if they don’t look completely hideous in your living room. A solid scratcher won’t solve everything, but it can absolutely reduce the amount of damage your sofa takes over time.
4. Wet Food That Picky Cats Actually Eat
Feeding time can be a drama, especially if you’ve got a picky cat or one with health needs. Wet food plays an important role — it adds hydration and is often easier to digest, especially for seniors or cats with dental issues.
I look for clear protein sources (chicken that’s actually chicken), minimal fillers, and brands that don’t smell like regret when you open the can. I also read a lot of reviews — if several people say their finicky cat finally eats this food, I take note. Because if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that cats love proving you wrong.
5. Small Comfort Upgrades That Actually Get Used
Some things just make life a little nicer — for them and for you. A window perch, for example, turns a random sunny spot into their favorite hangout. A good litter mat saves your floor (and your socks). A gentle grooming tool can help reduce shedding without creating a wrestling match.
These aren’t make-or-break items, but they’ve quietly made a noticeable difference in my house. The kind of upgrades you didn’t know you needed until you realize your cat hasn’t glared at you in a week.
I don’t just throw links around for fun. Every product on this list has been selected because it’s widely used, consistently reviewed, and practical in a real-world pet household — meaning not too fussy, overpriced, or gimmicky. I also avoid anything with harsh materials or setups that only work if your cat has a PhD in robotics.
If something’s on here, it’s because I’d recommend it to a fellow cat person without hesitation.
Final Thoughts
Every cat has their quirks. Some will love the fountain, others will act like it’s haunted. That’s just part of the deal. But overall, these five categories have proven to be reliable, worthwhile upgrades — the kind that quietly improve your cat’s well-being, your sanity, and maybe even your furniture’s lifespan.
I’ll keep updating this list as I test more gear, especially products for older cats or those with special needs. If you’ve got a recommendation that worked wonders in your home, send it my way — I’m always looking for new things to try (and my cats are always judging).
Affiliate Disclosure
This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you. These earnings help support the blog and keep me stocked with catnip toys and lint rollers. Thanks for supporting independent pet content!