These tactile, squidgy cat toys are sensory tools designed to offer the following therapeutic benefits:

• Tactile and Proprioceptive Input: The soft, squishy texture provides satisfying tactile input, while the act of squeezing offers proprioceptive feedback, which can help to calm and regulate individuals. This can be particularly beneficial for those with sensory processing challenges or those seeking additional sensory input to help self-regulate.

• Fine Motor Skill Development: Squeezing and manipulating the toys supports hand muscle strengthening, as well as improvements in fine motor control and dexterity, which can aid in daily functional tasks requiring hand coordination.

• Stress Reduction and Emotional Regulation: The repetitive squeezing and manipulating actions can have a calming and focusing effect, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. This is especially helpful for individuals who benefit from fidgeting or who experience stress related to fine motor tasks, providing an effective self-soothing mechanism.

• Attention and Focus Modulation: The sensory input from the squishy cat toys can serve as a sensory anchor, supporting concentration and focus. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who need sensory input to modulate arousal levels or those with attention difficulties, helping to sustain focus during tasks.

The pocket-sized design makes these toys portable and accessible, ideal for use in a variety of settings, such as at home, in classrooms, or within therapeutic environments. Occupational Therapists can recommend these toys as part of a sensory toolkit or as tools for individuals seeking self-regulation strategies. The fun and novel cat design adds a playful element, which can be motivating and engaging for some individuals.