A stuffed cat is a strange little category that covers everything from a child’s bedtime companion to a weighted calming plush for an anxious adult to a realistic decor piece for someone who cannot keep a live cat. We handled several, looked closely at the things that actually matter, and ignored the marketing. Seam strength comes first, because a plush that splits spills fill that a curious child or a real pet might mouth. Then fill quality, since cheap stuffing clumps and flattens within weeks. For realistic models, we judged how convincing the coat and pose looked up close. For weighted versions, we checked that the weight felt evenly distributed and the cover stayed soft. Eyes and small sewn features got the closest look, since anything that can be pried loose is a hazard around toddlers and pets. We sorted picks by purpose so you can match the plush to the person, whether that is comfort, realism, or a calming weighted companion.