Hand-Felted Catnip Sardines (Set of 4) – Natural Wool Cat Toys

Four little sardines, needle-felted by hand from merino wool and filled with catnip, valerian or no herbs. Light enough to bat across the floor, soft enough to carry around proudly. Each one takes a long time to felt, so every sardine is slightly unique.

Why cats love them

• Just the right size for carrying, batting and pouncing
• Soft wool is gentle on paws and quiet on floors
• Rotate them: keep two out and two stored, and swap every few days

Made by hand in our studio

I needle-felt every sardine myself, which is slow, careful work. The merino wool comes from a supplier who confirms it is mulesing-free and coloured with AZO-free dyes. Wool naturally gets a little fuzzy with play, which is completely normal.

Choose the filling: catnip, valerian or no herbs

Every option is the same price. Catnip is the classic. About one in three cats doesn't react to it, and many of those cats love valerian instead. No herbs means natural wool only, which is lovely for kittens, cats that get over-excited, or cats that simply love the smell of real wool.

Catnip versions ship from stock. Valerian and no-herb versions are made to order, so please allow up to 5 working days before dispatch. Not sure which to choose? Read our guide to catnip, matatabi and valerian.

Key facts

Care and safety

• Always supervise play and check the toy regularly. Remove it if it becomes damaged or loose. No cat toy is indestructible.
• Spot-clean with a little cold water and air-dry.
• Store in the tin between play sessions to keep the scent fresh.

Frequently asked questions

Why are felted toys more expensive?

Needle felting is done by hand with a barbed needle, stab by stab. A set of sardines takes hours to make.

Will my cat destroy them?

Felted wool is dense and durable, but every cat plays differently. Check the toys regularly and remove any that come apart.

Can I refresh the scent?

Yes. Store them in the tin with a pinch of dried catnip or valerian for a day or two.

Product safety information

Manufacturer: Fox Hollow Studio, Amy Louise Berchner, Rudolf-Ziersch-Str. 14, 42287 Wuppertal, Germany. Contact: info.foxhollowstudio@gmail.com. Pet product, not a toy for children. Keep small parts away from young children.