The iKitty case from SpeckProducts is the second addition to the company's line of silicone cases that double as "iPod toys". Like the iGuy (4 stars) before it, the iKitty is designed to be both cute and practical.

Speck iKitty in black

Don't let its four paws, two ears, and bendable tail fool you: the iKitty is a serious case for your iPod nano. In fact, due to the additional silicone the iKitty mold requires, the case is actually much more rugged than your typical thin skin—not that that's likely to be a strong selling point for anyone considering adopting an iKitty.

Still, there's something to be said for an iPod toy that doesn't compromise on any feature you'd want in an iPod case. Cut-outs give you access to all the nano's controls, including the dock connector. A removable plastic piece lined with soft rubber provides more than ample screen protection. And with its tail curled under, the iKitty can lie comfortably on its back, mimicking the standard resting position of any regular iPod case.

The Bottom Line

The iKitty is a well constructed case—er, iPod toy—that elicited plenty of compliments when taken out in public, especially from the female population. With an original price tag of $34.95 the iKitty was more of an extravagant gag gift than a fun iPod toy, but at press time Speck was blowing out iKitties for just $6.24 as part of its back-to-school sale, bringing the cost of smiles down considerably.

(When the back-to-school sale ends, you can always pick up the iKitty case for a little less than retail through Amazon in black or white.)