I've never tried flirt or spring poles but I've toyed with the idea by using one of their favorite toys. The best reactions have always been with stuffed animals for my boys. Doesn't matter if its on the end of a rope, a pole or in my hand. I have different ones around and they know which one they can and can't play with. The best part is they're cheap and easy to replace, the down side is cleaning up the cotton when they're done. Sometimes when they're done (tearing it apart and pulling everything out of it)I wash and tie the torn pieces together. They're cheaper than buying toys if you purchase them from second hand stores or garage sales. I'm good at those claw machines in stores so I use those to.