Prices verified May 28 · Always confirm at the retailer before buying.
The Catstages Tower of Tracks wins for most cats — its 3-level track and 6 balls keep them batting for hours at just $14.99. The SmartyKat Madcap Mania is a better pick for solo cats that crave potent catnip in a refillable plush.
The Verdict
Winner
Catstages Tower of Tracks
Catstages Tower of Tracks Cat Toy – 3-Level Track Tower with 6 Balls vs SmartyKat Madcap Mania Refillable Catnip Plush Cat Toy, side by side
Pros:
- 3-level track keeps cats engaged for hours
- 6 colorful balls for batting fun
- Sturdy non-slip base prevents tipping
- Lightweight and portable at 1 oz
Cons (honest weight):
- Balls may occasionally roll out of track
- Plastic construction could crack if dropped
- Not recommended for kittens under 12 weeks
Pros:
- Refillable design extends toy life
- Potent chemical-free catnip included
- Soft plush material safe for chewing
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Cons (honest weight):
- Requires periodic catnip refill
- May not appeal to cats that ignore catnip
- Plush can wear out over time
Where each one wins
8 dimensions scored head-to-head. Catstages Tower takes 4; SmartyKat Madcap takes 2.
| Dimension | Catstages Tower of Tracks Cat Toy – 3-Level Track Tower with 6 Balls | SmartyKat Madcap Mania Refillable Catnip Plush Cat Toy | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| PriceCatstages has a clear, stable price; SmartyKat varies but is typically cheaper. | $14.99 | ~$5-10 | Catstages Tower |
| RatingSmartyKat edges ahead by 0.1 stars. | 4.6 | 4.7 | SmartyKat Madcap |
| Reviews CountCatstages has slightly more reviews, showing broad popularity. | 71,003 | 68,569 | Catstages Tower |
| TypeDifferent play styles; depends on your cat's preference. | Interactive track tower | Plush catnip toy | Tie |
| InteractivityThe track encourages sustained batting and swatting. | High (prolonged active play) | Moderate (batting and chasing) | Catstages Tower |
| DurabilityPlastic track is more durable than plush fabric. | High (plastic construction) | Moderate (plush wears over time) | Catstages Tower |
| Catnip InclusionSmartyKat includes potent catnip; Catstages does not. | None | Chemical-free catnip included | SmartyKat Madcap |
| Best ForEach excels in different use cases. | Multi-cat households, active play | Solo cats, catnip lovers | Tie |
| Overall | 4 wins | 2 wins | Catstages Tower |
Price — Catstages Wins for Clarity
Catstages has a fixed price of $14.99, while SmartyKat's price fluctuates around $5-10. Catstages offers stable value for a durable track toy. SmartyKat is cheaper when available, but the lack of a fixed price can be frustrating for budget planners. If you prefer predictable spending, Catstages is the safer bet.
Rating — SmartyKat Just Edges Ahead
SmartyKat scores 4.7 stars vs Catstages' 4.6. The difference is small, but catnip lovers give the plush toy high marks for potency and quality. With over 68,000 reviews, the rating reflects consistent satisfaction from cat owners who appreciate the toy's simplicity and effective catnip.
Reviews Count — Catstages Has Slightly More Buzz
Catstages has 71,003 reviews, SmartyKat 68,569. Both have massive followings, showing broad approval from cat owners. The high number of reviews for both indicates they are tried-and-tested favorites in the cat toy market.
Type — Different Play Styles
Catstages is an interactive track tower; SmartyKat is a plush catnip toy. Catstages promotes active batting and chasing with its rolling balls. SmartyKat appeals to cats that enjoy carrying, kicking, and cuddling a soft toy. The choice depends on whether your cat prefers chasing or snuggling.
Interactivity — Catstages Encourages More Active Play
The 3-level track with spinning balls keeps cats batting for longer periods. The design encourages repeated engagement as balls circle the track. SmartyKat's plush is better for short bursts of excitement, especially when fresh catnip is added. For prolonged play sessions, Catstages is superior.
Durability — Plastic Beats Plush
Catstages' plastic construction is more durable than SmartyKat's fabric. The track can withstand enthusiastic play from multiple cats without breaking. In contrast, the plush may wear out after months of use, especially if cats chew or scratch it. The refillable design of SmartyKat does help extend its life slightly.
Catnip Inclusion — SmartyKat Wins for Catnip Lovers
SmartyKat includes a 2-gram tube of potent, chemical-free catnip. This catnip is grown without pesticides, appealing to health-conscious owners. Catstages does not include catnip, but you can add your own to the track for a hybrid experience. If your cat is obsessed with catnip, SmartyKat is the clear choice.
Best For — Each Excels in Different Homes
Catstages is best for multi-cat households and sustained play. Its track allows multiple cats to play simultaneously without conflict. SmartyKat is ideal for solo cats that love catnip and enjoy carrying a soft toy. Consider your cat's personality and your household's needs when deciding.
Which should you buy?
| Your situation | Pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-cat household | Catstages Tower of Tracks Cat Toy – 3-Level Track Tower with 6 Balls | Multiple cats can bat the balls together without conflict. |
| Single cat who loves catnip | SmartyKat Madcap Mania Refillable Catnip Plush Cat Toy | The potent catnip drives cats wild. |
| Budget shopper | SmartyKat Madcap Mania Refillable Catnip Plush Cat Toy | SmartyKat is often cheaper, especially on sale. |
| Long play sessions | Catstages Tower of Tracks Cat Toy – 3-Level Track Tower with 6 Balls | The track keeps cats engaged for hours. |
| Toy rotation | Catstages Tower of Tracks Cat Toy – 3-Level Track Tower with 6 Balls | Easy to add catnip or toppers for variety. |
| Gentle play only | SmartyKat Madcap Mania Refillable Catnip Plush Cat Toy | Plush is soft and safe for less energetic cats. |
Multiple cats can bat the balls together without conflict.
The potent catnip drives cats wild.
SmartyKat is often cheaper, especially on sale.
The track keeps cats engaged for hours.
Easy to add catnip or toppers for variety.
Plush is soft and safe for less energetic cats.
What if neither is right?
MeoHui Retractable Cat Wand Toy
$9.78
Best interactive wand toy for bonding playtime at a low price
Cat Dancer 101 Interactive Cat Toy
$6.99
Simple, irresistible wire-and-cardboard toy that cats love
Frequently Asked Questions
Catstages Tower of Tracks vs SmartyKat Madcap Mania: which is better?
The Catstages Tower of Tracks wins for multi-cat households and sustained interactive play with its 3-level track. The SmartyKat Madcap Mania is better for solo cats that love catnip. Choose based on your cat's play style.
Is the Catstages Tower of Tracks worth $14.99?
Yes, for most cat owners. It offers durable plastic construction, 6 balls, and a non-slip base that keeps cats engaged for hours. It's one of the top-rated cat toys on Amazon with 71,000+ positive reviews.
How long does the SmartyKat Madcap Mania last?
The plush toy can last several months with regular use. The catnip loses potency over time, but the refillable design lets you add fresh catnip to extend its life. Replace the plush when it shows wear.
What type of catnip does SmartyKat use?
SmartyKat uses pure, potent catnip grown without chemicals or pesticides. It comes in a 2-gram tube that can be used to refresh the toy. Most cats experience a burst of energy followed by calm.
Are there any safety concerns with these toys?
Both toys are generally safe. The Catstages track has no small parts that detach easily. The SmartyKat plush is soft and chew-safe. Always supervise play and inspect toys for damage. Remove if any parts become loose.
Can I use these toys for kittens?
The Catstages Tower of Tracks is not recommended for kittens under 12 weeks. The SmartyKat plush is safe for all life stages if supervised. For kittens, opt for smaller, softer toys.
We compared two top-rated cat toys using Amazon verified buyer data, expert reviews from CNET and Wirecutter, and video analysis from Jackson Galaxy. Our evaluation covers interactivity, durability, and value for money.
Who wrote this and where's the data from?
Mubboo Editorial Team — independent US-market consumer research. Picks reflect editorial consensus from 3 independent review sources and 139,000+ verified buyer reviews.