The general concept of a fishing rod cat toy that you use to cast a catnip-filled lure is a great one. Charlie and Annie absolutely loved chasing the lure for the one hour that the toy was operational. That’s the problem with this toy: great concept with poor execution! The lack of quality of the reel mechanism is perhaps to be expected at this toy’s price point of slightly more than $20.00, but it should last longer than one hour.
The failure of the toy was especially disappointing because C & A just had a ball with it while it worked. It was also very easy on their lazy papa as all the human operator has to do is sit there, cast the lure out and then reel it back in while the kitties chase it to and fro! The toy operates just like a real fishing rod and reel. The difference is that a quality fishing rig can cost well over $100.00 so from that perspective, the lack of quality in this toy’s mechanism is to be expected.
C & A and I were having a blast with the toy when it all came to an abrupt halt. I took the reel apart and removed the tangled/knotted line. After reassembly, the toy worked for about five minutes longer and then failed again.
That’s when Ron Popeil came to the rescue! I ordered a Pocket Fisherman from http://www.ronco.com/(they are also available from Walmart and other retailers). They actually offer two for $29.95 at ronco.com making them less expensive than the cat toy version, but with a better quality reel mechanism! The lures for the Kitty Hoots toy are perfect for this application and can be purchased separately.
This turned out to be the perfect solution! The Pocket Fisherman is going strong and Charlie, Annie and I are again having a blast! It’s funny; remembering those old commercials for the Pocket Fisherman from my childhood really brought back memories. I’m not much of a fisherman and never dreamed I would actually own one, but I expect the kitties and I will be getting a great deal of use out of them now! Thanks Mr. Popeil. You saved the day!
Get yourself a Pocket Fisherman (or two) and a few of the Kitty Hoots lures. You and your furry friends will have hours of fun to look forward to!
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