DIY Cat Toys: Simple and Affordable Ideas to Entertain Your Feline

Posted by By Mukesh Pathak 8 Min Read

Keeping your cat entertained and engaged doesn’t have to be expensive. DIY cat toys are a fantastic way to provide your feline friend with stimulating playtime while also saving money. Many of these toys can be made from items you already have around your home, making them both affordable and eco-friendly. In this guide, we’ll explore various DIY cat toy ideas that are simple to create and sure to keep your cat purring with joy.

1. Feather Wands

Materials Needed

  • Feathers: You can find feathers at craft stores or use those from old, unused feather boas.
  • Sticks or Dowels: Wooden dowels, chopsticks, or even old pens can work as handles.
  • String or Ribbon: Use a sturdy string or ribbon to attach the feathers.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Stick: Clean and sand down the stick or dowel if needed.
  2. Attach Feathers: Use hot glue or craft glue to attach feathers to one end of the stick. For added durability, you can secure them with tape.
  3. Attach String: Tie a piece of string or ribbon to the base of the feathers. Make sure it’s securely fastened to withstand your cat’s playful pulls.
  4. Playtime: Wave the wand in front of your cat to mimic the movement of prey, stimulating their natural hunting instincts.

2. Tennis Ball Treat Dispenser

Materials Needed

  • Tennis Ball: Old or used tennis balls work perfectly.
  • Scissors or Utility Knife: To cut the ball.
  • Treats: Small cat treats or kibble.

Instructions

  1. Cut the Ball: Carefully cut a small slit in the tennis ball, just big enough to insert treats. Be cautious to avoid cutting too deep.
  2. Fill with Treats: Insert a few cat treats into the ball.
  3. Encourage Play: Let your cat roll, bat, and interact with the ball to get the treats out. This provides both mental and physical stimulation.

3. Cardboard Cat House

Materials Needed

  • Cardboard Box: Any size cardboard box will work.
  • Scissors or Box Cutter: To cut openings.
  • Non-Toxic Paint or Markers: Optional, for decorating.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Box: Choose a box with enough space for your cat to comfortably fit inside.
  2. Cut Openings: Cut out a few openings for entry and exit points. You can also create small peepholes for added fun.
  3. Decorate: If desired, decorate the outside of the box with non-toxic paint or markers.
  4. Add Bedding: Place a soft blanket or old towel inside for added comfort.
  5. Enjoy: Place the box in a quiet corner of your home where your cat can retreat and play.

4. Sock and Catnip Toys

Materials Needed

  • Old Sock: A clean sock, preferably one without holes.
  • Catnip: Fresh or dried catnip.
  • Rice or Beans: Optional, for added weight and noise.
  • Scissors: To cut the sock.

Instructions

  1. Fill the Sock: Place a small amount of catnip and, optionally, some rice or beans into the sock.
  2. Secure the Sock: Tie a knot at the open end of the sock to seal the contents inside.
  3. Play: Toss the sock toy to your cat or let them bat it around. The catnip will entice them, while the rice or beans can create an interesting noise.

5. Crinkle Balls

Materials Needed

  • Aluminum Foil: Regular household aluminum foil.
  • Scissors: To cut the foil.

Instructions

  1. Shape the Foil: Tear off a piece of aluminum foil and crumple it into a small, ball-like shape.
  2. Secure: Make sure the ball is tightly crumpled so that it maintains its shape during play.
  3. Play: Toss the crinkle ball for your cat to chase and bat around. The crinkling sound can be very appealing to cats.

6. Toilet Paper Roll Puzzle

Materials Needed

  • Empty Toilet Paper Roll: Or paper towel roll cut into smaller pieces.
  • Cat Treats or Toys: Small toys or treats.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Roll: If using a paper towel roll, cut it into shorter sections to create multiple toy puzzles.
  2. Hide Treats: Place a few treats or small toys inside the roll.
  3. Seal Ends: Fold the ends of the roll slightly to prevent treats from falling out.
  4. Play: Let your cat roll, bat, and paw at the roll to get the treats or toys out.

7. Felted Wool Balls

Materials Needed

  • Wool Roving: Available at craft stores or online.
  • Hot Water and Soap: For felting the wool.

Instructions

  1. Prepare Wool: Take a small amount of wool roving and shape it into a ball.
  2. Felt the Wool: Soak the wool ball in hot soapy water and gently rub it until it felts and hardens.
  3. Dry: Allow the felted ball to dry completely.
  4. Play: Once dry, use the wool ball for tossing and playing with your cat.

8. Interactive Treat Puzzles

Materials Needed

  • Plastic Bottle or Container: An empty plastic bottle or container with a screw-on lid.
  • Cat Treats: Small treats or kibble.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Container: Clean and dry the plastic bottle or container.
  2. Add Treats: Place a few treats inside the bottle.
  3. Seal the Lid: Screw the lid on tightly.
  4. Encourage Play: Allow your cat to bat and roll the bottle to get the treats out. The noise and movement can be engaging and rewarding.

9. Homemade Catnip Mice

Materials Needed

  • Fabric Scraps: Old fabric or felt.
  • Catnip: Fresh or dried catnip.
  • Sewing Kit or Glue: For assembly.

Instructions

  1. Cut Fabric: Cut the fabric into small mouse shapes or rectangles.
  2. Stuff with Catnip: Place some catnip in the center of the fabric.
  3. Assemble: Fold the fabric and sew or glue the edges together, leaving a small opening for adding catnip.
  4. Play: Once sealed, your cat will enjoy playing with and cuddling this homemade mouse.

10. DIY Puzzle Feeder

Materials Needed

  • Plastic Container: A small plastic container or lid with holes.
  • Cat Treats or Dry Food: Small treats or kibble.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Container: Drill or cut small holes in the plastic container or lid.
  2. Add Treats: Place treats or dry food inside the container.
  3. Seal and Play: Close the container and let your cat roll, shake, or paw at it to get the treats out. This encourages problem-solving and play.

Conclusion

DIY cat toys are a great way to provide your feline friend with engaging and stimulating playtime without breaking the bank. From feather wands to crinkle balls, these simple and affordable toys can be crafted with common household items, offering endless fun for your cat. By incorporating these homemade toys into your cat’s daily routine, you’ll keep them entertained, active, and happy. Embrace your creativity and enjoy the satisfaction of seeing your cat play with toys made from the heart.