Cats and Cacti — a Winning Combination

The mythical Cactus Cat inspires these prickly pear-themed cat accessories.

Updated January 31, 2023

According to internet lore, a creature called the “ cactus cat” once roamed the American Southwest. Resembling a big cat covered in thorns instead of fur, the cactus cat went around the desert slashing cacti to release sap that they would then use to make mezcal. After consuming the booze, the cactus cat would become exceedingly drunk (mezcal will do that). They were a rowdy drunk, too, dancing and yowling through the night.

While it’s disappointing that cactus cats aren’t around anymore — they seem like they’d make for a great party guest — we’ll happily settle for this gift from the internet: A genre of cat-cactus hybrid products that may or may not have origins in the mythological oral (digital) history but are nevertheless super cute. Here are 11 cat cactus-inspired products, from cactus scratching posts to cactus catnip toys.

Btw, our editors (and their pets) picked out these products. They’re always in stock at the time we publish, but there’s a chance they’ll sell out. If you do buy through our links, we may earn a commission. (We’ve got a lot of toys to buy over here, you know?)

Everyday Olive Cactus Cat Go Away Pin

$12

While cats have often been described as prickly, they often politely decline your affection. See above: “Go away” is delivered with a smile. That’s as good as it’s gonna get.

$12 at Everyday Olive

P.L.A.Y. Blooming Buddies Collection

$11

We get it — it isn’t easy to find cat toys that are as fashionable as they are functional, which is why this quirky grinning cactus cat plushie toy is a winner.

$11 at P.L.A.Y.

Happy and Polly Cactus Shaped Water Fountain

$60

The only thing more difficult than getting your cat not to scratch your favorite chair or rug? Getting them to drink the proper amount of water. This water fountain design will entice your cat to get their daily water intake, and the cactus shape will add some charm to any room of your home.

$60 at Happy and Polly

Modernbeast Kitty Cactus

$14

You can never go wrong with a felted friend, including this lightweight plush cactus that your cat can easily bat around and sink their teeth into.

$14 at Modernbeast

CherryOnTopPetShoppe Cactus Blossom Collar

$20

If there’s a more adorable way to keep track of your cat, we’d like to see it. Otherwise, might we suggest smashing that “Add to Cart” button?

$20 at Etsy

Mad Cat Cactus Wand Cat Toy

$25

Here’s the easiest way to prevent your cat from engaging in natural destructive tendencies: Distract them with something bright, interactive, and whimsical enough for you both to enjoy.

$25 at PetSmart

StitchesLoversShop Cactus Cross Stitch

$13

Feeling crafty? You can try your hand at cross-stitching three different patterns featuring cactus cats, without any of the risk that comes with moving your hand over a cactus — or a cat — for that matter.

$13 at Etsy

Turtle's Soup Cactus Cats Vinyl Sticker Sheet

You’ll find five different cactus cat stickers on this vinyl sheet, and a bonus: There’s no way you can over-water these guys like you did your sad desk cactus. They’re waterproof.

$5 at Turtle's Soup

Pet Craft Supply Store Interactive Cat Toy Chew

There once was a woman who begged her boyfriend for a leather couch. The couch in question was then immediately and repeatedly sunken into by a pair of cat fangs. Legend has it that if she’d provided the cat with a chew toy it could have been prevented. Note: This story is based on true events

$9 at Amazon

Takezuaa Cat Cactus Scratching Post

$15

Maybe your cat doesn’t want to be vertical. Maybe that’s the most relatable thing about them. Enter: the Takezuaa Cat Cactus Scratching Pad. This way, everyone can stay on ground level.

$15 at Amazon

Aspiringpet Cat Roly-Poly Scratcher Ball

$13

Ahh, a cat chasing a ball; there’s nothing quite as satisfying for them. But when it comes in the form of an adorable little cactus, complete with a pink flower, you get some joy out of the whole experience, too.

$13 at Amazon