Best Feather toy ever: 1 flexible plastic dowel/rod/stick, 1 clump of sewn feathers from like Michael's, 1 Velcro"zip" tie. I used to start with a store bought toy which would torn and frayed rather quickly by the cat and keep that stick and rebuild as needed fasting with the reusable Velcro tie. The flexible stick is important for making that "bird taking flight" sound that will have them begging to play all the time.

Also add another squirt bottle vote.