Catalysts made by the Raney process (e.g., Raney process nickel) pelletized in matrix of polymer and plasticizer are activated by either (a) removal of plasticizer (e.g., by solvent extraction) followed by leaching out Al with caustic solution, leaving an active catalyst made by the Raney process in a polymer matrix; or (b) removal of plasticizer, then calcining to remove polymer, followed by leaching with caustic. The activated catalyst pellets have sufficient strength and attrition resistance for efficient use in fixed beds and packed columns for superior hydrogenation of toluene, heptene, butyraldehyde, and other conventional feedstockers used with catalysts made by the Raney process.