1. Sock & Catnip Toy 🎾
What You Need:
- An old sock
- Catnip
- Cotton balls or tissue paper
- String (optional)
Instructions: Take an old sock and fill it with a handful of catnip and some cotton balls or crinkled tissue paper to add a bit of bulk. Tie a knot at the end of the sock or use string to secure it. For added fun, dangle it from a piece of string so your cat can bat it around or drag it across the floor!
Why Cats Love It: Cats love the smell of catnip, and the soft texture of the sock gives them something they can claw, bite, and carry around.
2. Toilet Paper Roll Treat Dispenser 🎉
What You Need:
- Empty toilet paper roll
- Cat treats or kibble
- Scissors
Instructions: Cut small holes randomly around the toilet paper roll (just big enough for treats to fall out). Place a few treats or pieces of kibble inside the roll, then fold the ends to keep them secure. Give the roll to your cat and watch them bat it around to release the treats!
Why Cats Love It: This toy taps into a cat's hunting instincts, encouraging them to "stalk" and "capture" the treats as they work to get them out.
3. Feather & String Wand 🪶
What You Need:
- Stick or wooden dowel (about 12-18 inches long)
- String or yarn
- Feathers, ribbons, or small bells
Instructions: Tie one end of the string to the stick securely. On the other end, attach feathers, ribbons, or even a small bell to make it more enticing. Now you have a homemade wand toy to dangle in front of your cat!
Why Cats Love It: Cats love the movement and unpredictability of wand toys, which mimic the motion of prey animals. This is perfect for burning off some energy and satisfying their hunting drive.
4. Cardboard Box Hideaway 📦
What You Need:
- Medium-sized cardboard box
- Scissors or utility knife
- Small toys or a blanket (optional)
Instructions: Take a cardboard box and cut a few holes on each side for your cat to peek through or swat their paw out of. Add a small toy or blanket inside to make it extra cozy. Leave the box open or close it with just one opening for your cat to slip in and out.
Why Cats Love It: Cats enjoy hiding in small, enclosed spaces where they feel safe. This DIY hideaway is also great for play, as they can hide and jump out, adding to the excitement.
5. Pom-Pom Balls 🧶
What You Need:
- Yarn or wool
- Scissors
Instructions: Wrap yarn around two fingers (or a small object) about 50 times to create a thick bundle. Carefully slide it off, tie a separate piece of yarn around the center to hold it in place, and cut the loops on both sides to create a pom-pom. Trim the ends to make it round, and voila! You have a soft, bouncy pom-pom for your cat to play with.
Why Cats Love It: The lightweight nature of the pom-pom makes it easy for your cat to bat around, carry in their mouth, and even "hunt." Make a few in different colors for extra fun!
6. Catnip Stuffed Felt Mouse 🐭
What You Need:
- Felt or fabric scraps
- Catnip
- Needle and thread (or hot glue)
- Cotton or filler
- String (for the tail)
Instructions: Cut two identical mouse shapes from the felt. Sew or glue the edges together, leaving a small opening. Stuff with a bit of cotton and some catnip, then close the hole. Attach a small piece of string at one end for a tail.
Why Cats Love It: Cats are drawn to the smell of catnip and love toys they can bite, swat, and chase around.
7. Crinkle Ball 🎊
What You Need:
- Aluminum foil
- Clean, unused crinkly paper (optional)
Instructions: Take a small piece of aluminum foil, roll it into a ball, and toss it to your cat! If you have crinkly paper, you can layer it around the foil for extra noise and texture.
Why Cats Love It: The crinkling sound and lightweight design make this a perfect toy for cats that love to bat, chase, and pounce.
8. Paper Bag Playground 🛍️
What You Need:
- A large paper bag (without handles)
- Small toys, crinkle paper, or a sprinkle of catnip
Instructions: Place the paper bag on its side in an open space where your cat likes to play. Add a few small toys, crinkle paper, or catnip to make it extra fun. Let your cat explore the bag on their own!
Why Cats Love It: Cats love the texture and sound of paper bags, and they make great spaces to hide in and pounce from.
Safety Tips for DIY Cat Toys
- Avoid small parts or easily detachable pieces that your cat could swallow.
- Always supervise your cat when introducing a new toy, especially if it has string or small items.
- Replace any DIY toys that become damaged over time.
