KONG Connects Magnicat vs Scrunchie: Which Cat Toy to Pick?
By Real Pet Store | Published: 2026-11-03
Category: Comparisons
Compare the KONG Connects Magnicat and KONG Cat Active Scrunchie on movement, sound, and catnip to choose the right interactive toy for your cat.
Quick answer
Choose the KONG Connects Magnicat if you want a toy that stays put on magnetic surfaces and dangles to trigger batting. Choose the KONG Cat Active Scrunchie if your cat prefers grab-and-catch play with crinkle and bell sounds.
Movement style: stationary dangle vs. handheld catch
The Magnicat is built around magnetized paws that let it hang from metal surfaces, so it stays in one spot and dangles its legs and tail. That suits cats who like to bat at a target that does not run away. The Scrunchie has multiple elastic bands and a soft exterior, which makes it better for catch and capture play where you or your cat grab and pull it. If your cat loses interest when a toy stops moving, the Scrunchie gives you more ways to keep it active; if your cat likes a fixed target, the Magnicat is the simpler fit.
Sound and scent: what actually rewards play
Both toys include KONG North American Premium Catnip, so scent is not the deciding factor. The difference is sound. The Magnicat uses crackle sounds to reward hunting behavior, while the Scrunchie adds crinkle and bell sounds. A bell is louder and more continuous than crackle, which can be a plus for energetic cats and a drawback for shy cats or households where noise matters. Neither toy lists a refillable catnip compartment, so plan to refresh the supplied catnip yourself if your cat loses interest.
Price and play value
The Scrunchie is the lower-cost option at USD 3.20 (compared with USD 4.50), and the Magnicat is USD 3.60 (compared with USD 5.00). The price gap is small, so base the choice on play style rather than cost. The Magnicat's magnetized paws only help if you have a metal surface to attach it to; without one, you lose its main feature. The Scrunchie works anywhere because it does not depend on a mounting surface.
Trade-offs to weigh before you buy
- Magnetized paws vs. no mounting needed: The Magnicat's magnetized paws are its standout feature, but they only pay off on a metal surface. The Scrunchie has no such requirement and works on any floor or lap. Check whether you have a metal surface the Magnicat can hang from before choosing it.
- Crackle vs. bell and crinkle: The Magnicat rewards batting with crackle sounds; the Scrunchie adds crinkle and a bell. Crackle is softer and intermittent; a bell is louder and more constant. Match the sound to your cat's sensitivity and your tolerance for noise.
- Fixed target vs. active grabbing: The Magnicat is designed to dangle in place, while the Scrunchie's elastic bands are built for catch and grab play. Pick based on whether your cat prefers to stalk a stationary target or wrestle a toy you move. If your cat ignores toys that stop moving, the Scrunchie gives you more ways to re-engage.
Product facts
- KONG Connects Magnicat with Catnip: Magnetized paws let the toy hang from metal surfaces, with dangling legs and a flowy tail. You can set it up in one spot for batting and leave it there, but it needs a metal surface to use the magnet feature.
KONG Connects Magnicat with Catnip - KONG Cat Active Scrunchie: Multiple elastic bands and a soft exterior support catch and capture play, with crinkle and bell sounds. It works as a grab-and-pull toy anywhere, and the sounds add feedback without needing a mounting surface.
KONG Cat Active Scrunchie
Which cat toy fits your cat?
Best for
- Cats that like to bat at a dangling target from a fixed spot
- Households with a metal surface where the Magnicat can hang
- Owners who prefer softer crackle sounds over a bell
Not for
- Cats that need a toy you can grab and pull
- Homes without a metal surface for the magnetized paws
- Noise-sensitive cats or owners who want a quieter toy
