TATRAPET Caty Funny Mouse clockwork, 5 cm is a mechanical mouse toy for cats from the TATRAPET brand. It runs on a wind-up mechanism: wind it, put it on the floor and it scurries off on its own, triggering your cat's hunting instinct. The toy is made of fabric, is compact at 5 cm and comes in various colours — black, dark grey and white. According to the manufacturer, it lets your cat play on its own without you having to move the toy all the time.
Why a moving toy
Cats are drawn to movement: a still mouse soon gets boring, but one that runs away sparks excitement. Hunting play means exercise, reaction training and a way to burn off energy that would otherwise go into night-time zoomies and scratching furniture. According to the manufacturer, the toy relieves boredom and helps prevent destructive behaviour. This matters especially for indoor cats that never go outside. More ideas in how to entertain your cat at home.
Key specs
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Type | wind-up mouse |
| Mechanism | clockwork |
| Size | 5 cm |
| Material | fabric |
| Colour | black, dark grey, white (assorted) |
| For | cats |
| Brand | TATRAPET |
Pros
- Runs on its own. Wind-up, no batteries.
- Triggers the hunting instinct. Movement attracts cats.
- Compact. 5 cm — the size of a real mouse.
- Solo play. No need to keep moving the toy.
- For any age. Kittens and adult cats.
- Affordable. An inexpensive toy.
Cons
- Short run time. It needs rewinding constantly.
- Needs a smooth floor. It gets stuck on carpet.
- A mechanism inside. If your cat tears the fabric, remove the toy.
- No colour choice. Supplied in assorted colours.
How to play
Wind up the mouse and let it go on a smooth floor — parquet, laminate or tiles. Let it run away from your cat and "hide" round a corner or under a chair, as that's closer to a real hunt. Let your cat catch the mouse at the end — it's important the hunt ends in success so your cat isn't left overexcited. Play for 10–15 minutes several times a day, especially in the evening before a meal: hunt, then eat is a natural rhythm for cats.
Safety
There's a mechanism with small parts inside the mouse, so check the toy after play. If the fabric is torn and the mechanism shows, put the toy away so your cat can't swallow any parts. Don't leave a kitten alone with the mouse for long. Tails and ears also get chewed off over time — make sure they aren't eaten. If your kitten bites and scratches too eagerly in play, see kitten biting and scratching: how to stop it.
Keeping your cat interested
Cats soon lose interest in toys that are always lying around. Put the mouse away after play and bring it out again a day or two later — it'll feel "new" again. Rotate it with other toys: wands, balls and wobblers such as the Nobleza Egg. For turning meals into play, a puzzle feeder like the Nobleza spinning feeder works well.
Who needs it most
Indoor cats that don't get enough activity, young energetic cats, kittens and cats prone to weight gain — play and movement matter most for them. More on preventing weight gain in excess weight in cats and dogs. Senior cats benefit from play too, but calmer and shorter.
Caring for the toy
Don't machine-wash or soak the fabric mouse: water will get into the wind-up mechanism and may stop it working. Gently wipe off dirt with a damp cloth and let the toy dry at room temperature. Keep the mouse in a drawer your cat can't get into without you — it'll last longer that way.
Who it suits
Owners of cats of any age who want an inexpensive toy for hunting games. More toys are in the cat toys section.
Verdict
The TATRAPET Caty Funny Mouse is a small fabric wind-up mouse that runs on its own and brings out your cat's hunting instinct. A simple, inexpensive toy for active play without batteries. The downsides are a short run time, poor performance on carpet, and the need to remove it if the fabric tears because of the mechanism inside.
FAQ
How does the mouse work?
With a wind-up mechanism: wind it and put it on the floor.
Does it need batteries?
No, it's clockwork.
What size is it?
5 cm.
What is it made of?
Fabric, with a wind-up mechanism inside.
Is it suitable for a kitten?
Yes, under supervision.
Does it run on carpet?
It works best on a smooth floor.
What colour is it?
Assorted: black, dark grey or white.
