Cats toys diy: 15 Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make for Your Kitty TODAY!

20 fun DIY cat toys that kitties can’t resist

You have to respect an animal that can make a toy out of an empty cardboard box. Or a bag. Or a simple ball of yarn. Whether they know it or not, cat people constantly try to prove to their felines that they, too, can make something out of nothing. For those creative moments, we’ve gathered 20 DIY cat toys that will definitely entertain — not to mention save you a little money and perhaps reuse something you may have otherwise thrown away.

Give kitty one of these homemade cat toys, and we promise they’ll be wondering what other extraordinary things two-legged creatures like you are capable of!

1. Toilet paper roll toys

Image via Papaya Wonton/Instagram

One of the easiest DIY cat toys out there, a plain old toilet paper roll can be hours of fun for a kitty, as demonstrated by Papaya Wonton. Or if you’re feeling crafty, jazz up a toilet paper roll by stuffing some treats inside and folding the sides, as suggested by Staying Close to Home.  

2. Feather fascinator

You’ll need loose craft feathers, mesh braids, string and needle, elastic and a small plastic ring to make this feathery toy from Dream a Little Bigger, which, like its name implies, will fully fascinate your feline friend until he or she just isn’t anymore (because: cats). First, sew the braids together into a bunch, then sew feathers to the ends of each of the braids. Bind all your mesh tubes together with some elastic, leaving a long piece for it to hang from. Tie a ring at the end.

3. Ultimate kitty puzzle

Image via Arnica Jolene/Instagram

It’s simple, really: Take two things cats love — toilet paper rolls and boxes — and fashion them into a toy. But this is not just any cat toy. Add pipe-cleaners, a cardboard egg carton, and a few balls and you have what looks like a kitty pinball machine. Arnica Jolene, whose parents came up with the idea, is quite the pinball wizard — with whiskers.

4. Cat scratch door hanger

OK, if the words “meter box and saw” mean absolutely nothing to you, skip immediately to #5. If you’re all about a small amount of Chip Gaines handiwork, this cat scratch door hanger is the purr-fect project for you. Cut your wood as the Design Sponge directions suggest and glue them together with wood glue. Hot glue some sisal rope around it — note: few cats can resist sisal rope — and detail it with your favorite color string. Use a drill to make some holes where you’ll tie a leather cord and hang.

5. Tree stump scratch pad

Image via Sussie and Kich/Instagram

Bring the outdoors in with this scratching post that would make Paul Bunyan proud. As this YouTube video shows, use clear tape to secure your rolled cardboard (three and a half inches thick) into a circle-like stump. Glue cork on the outside to look like bark or, as Sussie and Kich did, use real bark, wood glue and tie around rope. The result is a rustic-looking stump that kitty will totally cop a squat on — especially if you add catnip.

6. Cardboard catscraper

Styled like a skyscraper made for kitties this “catscraper” from Shelterness is fashioned from stacked cardboard that your cat will definitely want to sharpen those claws on. The key to keeping it vertical is constructing a super sturdy base with an equally sturdy dowel positioned in the center. Stack the carefully cut cardboard pieces (one on top of the other) until get the skyscraper shape you desire. The modus operandi here: The taller the better!

7. Wiggle wand toy

Take it from Pudge, the Insta-famous cat in this how-to video, this is the toy your feline wants right meow. To make it you’ll need leather and cord thread, a wire cutter, pliers, a dowel, superglue, a bell, and felt (for the faux feathers). Pudge may or may not have fallen asleep while making this toy, but that is in no way a reflection of how fun it is to play with.

8. Cat puzzle toy

Cut holes in the top of a disposable food container with a utility knife to make this cat puzzle toy. (The folks at The Glam Cat burnt the edges of the holes with a lighter to make it softer on kitty’s paws). Fill the container with items your cat will totally flip over, such as catnip toys, balls, and treats. Close the container and let kitty’s noggin do the rest.

9. DIY cat tent

Image via Jenna How/Instagram

Dig through your closet for a medium-sized T-shirt which is the key ingredient for this adorable little kitty abode, courtesy of Jenna How. A piece of cardboard, two wire hangers, and tape help you achieve a cool tent frame. Safety pins help you secure the shirt to the frame. Put a cozy blanket inside and your cat is ready for some shut-eye.

10. Cat dancer toy

One reason you won’t be making this flying feather and pom pom cat toy from Joy the Baker while your kitty is around: catnip. When kitty is napping, cut colorful felt into fun shapes, stuff each with catnip and sew both sides of the shapes together. Attach pieces of string to a rod and tie the shapes you made to the end of each. For added fun, put pom-poms and feathers on each catnip shape with hot glue.

11. Cardboard hide-and-seek toy

Image via Mochi the Cute Fluff/Instagram

Got a cardboard box and a pair of scissors? Then you’ve got everything you need to make one of the cheapest, most engaging cat toys around. As Mochi the Cute Fluff shows on Instagram, this cardboard hide-and-seek toy will have your kitty entertained for a good chunk of time. 

12. Junk food cat toys

Give your Garfield all the junk food he dreams about! Cut some colored felt into donut, burger and hot dog shapes, stuff with catnip and then sew with colored embroidery thread. All the details for making these felt junk food cat toys are over at A Beautiful Mess.

13. DIY fork pom poms

These DIY pom poms from Ventuno Art are perfect for knitters with kitties (who constantly interrupt their knitting). Wrap yarn around a fork (like spaghetti) approximately 60 times, then tie some yarn down the middle. Carefully slip it off and trim the edges on both sides. Voila, ready for a game of catch.

14. Cattail catnip toy

Sew4Home has a downloadable pattern for this one-seam catnip toy. You just need home decor weight fabric, matching all purpose thread, yarn, catnip, and a chopstick to achieve the right shape. Another very important tool that’s needed: a funnel, to help you get the catnip inside!

15. Cat fishing pole

This toy is a must for any cat that’s licked its lips while gazing at the fish bowl. Making the fish might be the most complicated part of this wand-like fishing pole toy by Lia Griffith, but the adorable result is well worth the effort glueing on gils. Cotton clothesline attaches the fish to the dowel which they recommend painting blue for an aquatic aesthetic.

16. Pirate ship scratching post

Image via Jenny Rae Gibson/Instagram

Why make your cat an ordinary scratching post when you can make them a pirate ship scratching post a la Jenny Rae Gibson?! Not only will your kitty be entertained for hours, you’ll have a cute show piece for your home to boot!

17. T-shirt cat toys

If you can tie your shoes, you can make these easy DIY T-shirt cat toys! Cut up old tees, says Muslin and Merlot, into 3 inch by 10 inch rectangles (the more colorful the better). Simply tie them into knots — like we said: easy, peasy!

18. No-sew pom poms

If we had you at “no sew,” we appreciate your desire to keep things easy. These pom pom toys from Sensibly Sara are made with scraps of fleece (at least 2 inches wide), inexpensive cotton string and a pair of scissors. Catnip optional.

19. Simple sisal rope cat scratcher

Image via Centsational Style/Instagram

Want to keep your cat entertained and put an end to couch/general furniture-scratching. Kate Riley from Centsational Style has the solution — a simple sisal rope cat scratcher. It’s easy to make, easy to look at and will keep your arm chairs intact.

20. Wine cork cat toy

Drinking and crafting aren’t generally recommended, but using wine corks to make cat toys totally is! Per The Link Site instructions, make a hole in the cork with a nail and use a pair of pliers to pull it out again. Use a darning needle to pull yarn through the hole. Tie tassels at the bottom and make sure the yarn is at least 30 centimeters long so you have ample dangling distance (because: claws!)

DIY Cat Toys | How to Make a Happy, Healthy Cat

It’s pretty clear by now that cats are taking over the world. From global Instagram cat celebrities, to cat cafes, to enough cat-themed accessories to clothe an army, our feline friends have us wrapped around their paws.  My own cat, Jax, is no exception — he is definitely the boss in our household. Now he’s even got me making DIY cat toys!          

It’s THE LOOK. You cat people know what I mean. How can I refuse?

If your cat has been giving you THE LOOK a lot too, it probably means that he wants you to learn how to make homemade cat toys. In which case you’re in luck, because I’ve got three modern, stylish, and easy DIY cat toys for you: a puzzle box, a catnip sock, and a wand toy.

Your cat will love these toys because, well, they mean playtime. And you’ll love them because they are cheap to make and are pretty enough to show off to all your crazy cat friends.

Keep reading to learn how to make these inexpensive DIY cat toys! 

• How to Make a Stylish Cat Food Puzzle
•  materials
• Step 1
• Step 2
• Step 3
• How to Make a Catnip Sock for Cats
• Step 4
• How to Make a Modern Cat Wand Toy with Wood and Leather
• Step 5
• What do cats like to play with? 
• What kinds of toys are safe for cats?
•  How often should I play with my cat?
• Do cat toys need to be cleaned?
• How to Make Even More DIY Cat Toys
• DIY Cat Condos
• DIY Cat Scratching Posts
• The Best Cat Toys to Buy
• Cat Videos for Cats

How to Make a Stylish Cat Food Puzzle

Make your kitty work a little harder for his treats with this DIY cat food puzzle that’s pretty enough to leave out. It comes together fast with only a box, a basic plumbing supply from the hardware store, and glue. Place treats and toys in the compartments, and hide some of them behind crumpled pieces of paper. Your cat will love “hunting” for his food as he tries to figure out how to get at the goodies! 

MaterialS

• Plain wood box (a sturdy cardboard photo storage box would also work well. Decorate the box however you like!)
• PVC pressure couplings in various sizes (pictured here are 1/2″, 1″, and 1 1/2″ couplings)
• E6000 or other strong clear glue

Note: To make sure my PVC couplings all fit, I took the box with me to the plumbing aisle and made a mockup right in the store. No extra pieces! 

Step 1

Remove the box hardware if it has any, and decorate the box (here I kept things simple by painting half of the box white).

Then, arrange all of the PVC couplings in the box. If couplings have text printed on them, you can hide it by turning the text so it’s facing another coupling.

 Step 2

Add glue to the bottom of each coupling… 

Step 3

…and glue into place. That’s it!

Once the box has dried, your cat will have a new puzzle feeder to challenge her hunting instincts. This would be a great cat toy to make with your kids!

How to Make a Catnip Sock for Cats

Have you ever noticed how cats love to kick their “prey” with their hind legs as they are playing? This toy is extra long so your cat can kick away! The catnip filling makes it a guaranteed hit with your fur babies. All you need to make this easy homemade cat toy is a knee-length sock, dried catnip, and fiber fill, so it’s an inexpensive cat toy, too.

Materials 

• Knee-length socks
• Catnip
• Fiber fill 
• Scissors
• Faux leather lace or other cord
• E6000 or other clear strong glue

Step 1

Cut the foot off of a knee-length sock, and part of the cuff if necessary (you want the final toy to be slightly shorter than the length of your cat’s body).

Step 2

Tightly tie off one end of the sock with a double knot. For extra security, you can add a small dab of E6000 to the underside of the knot. 

Step 3

Stuff the sock with fiber fill and catnip. I found the easiest way to distribute the catnip evenly throughout the sock was to spread out a bunch of fiber fill and sprinkle catnip on top of it. Then, push the fiber fill bunch into the sock. Continue until the sock is completely stuffed.

Be generous with the catnip — you want kitty to smell it through all the fabric, and dried catnip will lose some potency out of its sealed container. 

Step 4

To finish the homemade catnip sock, tie off the end as before, and add a dab of glue under the knot. 

This is a great way to use old socks that are too worn for your feet. Your cat will love pouncing on and kicking her cuddly new loot! 

How to Make a Modern Cat Wand Toy with Wood and Leather

The classic wand toy gets a modern upgrade with the help of faux leather fabric in this simple DIY. Just grab a dowel, string, and glue, and you’re on your way to making another fun homemade cat toy for your cat to bat around! 

 materials

• Wooden dowel
• Leather lace
• Faux or real leather fabric
• Cotton twine
• Scissors
• E6000 or other clear strong glue

Step 1

Cut a piece of faux leather fabric about the width of your hand. This will make the “grip.” Wrap the fabric around one end of the dowel and secure with glue.

You will need to wrap the fabric tightly around the dowel, and apply a line of glue every few turns.

Clothespins or binder clips can help hold the fabric in place while you allow the glue to dry for a few minutes before continuing.  

Step 2

When the faux leather grip has dried, flip the dowel over so you are working with the other end.

Cut off a piece of cotton string a little longer than two feet, and glue one end of the string to the dowel. 

Step 3

Now cut an 8″ length of faux leather lace to wrap this end of the dowel.  

Glue the end of the lace to the dowel, then wrap the cord tightly and evenly around the dowel, applying more glue every few turns. Trim the end of the lace and hold in place with another dab of glue.

Step 4

Next, make the tassel toy. Find an object that is approximately the length of the final tassels. The object can be anything; pictured here is the case for my external hard drive, which is a little larger than my hand.

Place the end of the cotton string on the object, with a tail of about 4″. This will be used to attach the tassel to the wand.

Wrap the leather lace around the object roughly 20 times. More will make a fluffier tassel, less will make a thinner tassel.

Tightly tie the end of the cotton string around the lace threads with a double knot.

Turn over the object, and cut through the lace threads right in the middle.

Gather all the tassel pieces so they are hanging down in the same direction. Then tie tightly with another piece of cotton string.

Step 5

Finish the toy by wrapping the string around the “head” of the tassel several times. Tuck the end under the loops, and secure with a dot of glue.

Finished! You just made another easy DIY cat toy for your cat.

Pin this DIY for later!

Now that you know how to make homemade cat toys, let’s talk more about how to actually PLAY with your cat!

What do cats like to play with? 

Maybe you’ve just come home with a new feline addition to your family, or you’d like to help your current kitty companion shed that extra pound by playing with her more. Learning a little about how cats like to play will get you two having fun play sessions in no time!

What types of toys do cats like? 

In the animal kingdom, play is all about practice. For predatory animals like cats, this means practicing the hunt. Kittens learn how to hunt by observing their parents and play stalking and attacking each other.

Our house cats don’t need to hunt since their food comes from a can. But, they don’t know that! Cats still have strong hunting instincts, and they love to play to hone their skills. 

This means, cats like toys that resemble “prey.” Depending on your cat’s personal preference, she may like chasing birds, mice, insects, or all three.

Image via The Spruce Pets

To find out which type of prey your cat prefers to chase, try playing with her using a toy that moves or sounds like a bird. The wand toy above is great to use here. See how she reacts when you move the toy like a bird. Then, try a toy that moves like a mouse, and one that moves like an insect. Does she react more strongly to one or the other?

If you’ve never done this before and aren’t sure what to do, watch some nature shows of big cats hunting and notice how the prey moves, and how the cats respond! Try to make your cat’s toys come to life as different prey. Your kitty will love “hunting” the toys.

Puzzle toys are also wonderful to get your cat interested in playing. While this type of toy doesn’t move, your cat has to use his senses to work out how to access the treats. This is just like trying to hunt for a small animal that has hidden itself. 

What toys do cats hate?

There are many household objects that make fun, free cat toys, like crumpled pieces of paper, boxes, and toilet paper tubes.

But, did you know that cats hate tin foil? They despise the sound it makes and the texture under their paws.

The same goes for sticky surfaces, like double-sided sticky tape. (Incidentally, this means that both of these items can make great training tools!)

You’ll also want to avoid trying to play with your cat with toys that make loud sounds. And some cats have more individual preferences. My senior cat, Champ, loved crumpled paper, but was afraid of pretty much everything else!

Why do cats like boxes?

Image via Attack of the Cute

Every cat owner knows there are times when the packaging is better than the gift, at least according to the cat! As far as animal behaviorists have been able to work out, cats like boxes for a few reasons:

• A cardboard box makes a great hideout. Cats feel safe in small spaces that are hidden, yet provide an exit for escape.
• Cats like to avoid conflict, and for multi-cat households, boxes can be a “do not disturb” signal to the others.
• Boxes made of cardboard are insulating, and cats prefer a warmer average temperature than we do. (Also why kitty loves to sleep on your laptop!)

Do indoor cats need special toys?

Cats that go outdoors tend to have shorter lifespans on average than cats that live indoors: 2-5 years compared to 13-17! But, outdoor cats get a LOT more exercise and mental stimulation than indoor cats.

To make up for this, indoor cats should have a rich home environment, including toys that satisfy their need to hunt. Check out the bottom of this post for some great examples.

What kinds of toys are safe for cats?

Image via Pet MD

Keeping cats out of trouble can be a little like…well, herding cats. Those notoriously curious felines are prone to get into anything and everything. Let’s talk about how to keep your kitties safe during playtime. 

Toys that are not safe for your cat:

• Pieces of string, balls of yarn, ribbon, and rubber bands: Even though cats LOVE the simple pleasure of swatting and chasing strings, it is not safe to allow cats to play with any loose strings or similar objects. And they should never play with string (including wand toys) unattended. Cats will frequently swallow strings, which can become entangled in their intestines and lead to complicated (and expensive) surgery. Always store any cat toys that have strings on them away when playtime is over.
• Plastic bags, packing peanuts, and bubble wrap: These items can be very appealing to cats because of the crinkly sound and texture, but as with young children, there is a danger of suffocation and swallowing.
• Toys containing small loose filling, like plastic beads: That rattling sound is so enticing to your cat, but of course, his desire to capture and rip apart his “prey” makes this an unsafe choice. Swallowing lots of tiny beads? That’s a vet visit you want to avoid!

In general, avoid leaving your cat alone with anything that is small enough to be swallowed, has parts that can easily be torn off, or can get her tangled up.

• Your hand is not a toy: This one is to keep you safe! It can be fun to wave your fingers in your cat’s face, especially when she is a kitten, but this will only teach her to pounce on and bite you. And because cats lick their own bums, their mouths are an actual cesspool of germs. Cat bites are no joke, avoid them!

These toys ARE safe for your cat:

Image via Flickr

• Plush toys: As long as they are sturdy enough to withstand being chewed on without being ripped open, small and large plushies are great kitten toys. Adult cats enjoy plush toys too–some cats even like to cuddle and sleep with them!
• Catnip: Catnip affects all cats differently. Some are crazy about it, others ignore it completely. Some cats like to eat the fresh or dried catnip leaves, some prefer to sniff it and roll around in it. Catnip can cause your cat to be drowsy, OR to turn into an off-the-wall cat maniac! Regardless, both fresh and dried catnip are safe for your kitties. Don’t give them more than a tablespoon or two though, as too much of a good thing can cause vomiting. 
• Catnip-filled toys: Since catnip is safe for kitties to eat, it is perfectly fine to give cats catnip toys, even if they end up torn apart.
• Balls: Make sure they are large enough that your curious cat can’t swallow them. Try tossing a few ping pong balls into a bathtub for a cheap and easy way to entertain your cat! Sturdy plastic shower curtain rings are also fun to bat around.
• Mouse toys, crinkle toys, and other pet store toys: Yes! Just watch out for the “no-nos” above.
• Paper, paper bags, and boxes: Crumpled up pieces of paper can be a great source of entertainment. And we all know how much cats enjoy stalking paper bags! Be sure to remove the handles on the bag first, so your cat doesn’t get stuck in them. And cardboard boxes are a given — even if it doesn’t fits, it sits.

A note on licking and chewing paper and plastic: It’s normal for cats to do this when they are playing, but if your cat is excessively seeking out every single thing made of paper or plastic just so she can lick and suck the item, it could be a sign of a nutritional deficiency or other medical condition. Get a checkup with her veterinarian to be safe!

• Laser toys: Looking directly into a laser beam for a long time can be dangerous to the retina, for both humans and cats. But, most cheap laser pointers that you buy at pet stores or office supply stores don’t have a strong enough laser to cause damage if the cat accidentally looks at the beam for a moment. When playing with a laser toy, be careful that you are not shining it at kitty’s face, and stay away from automatic laser-shooting toys, since you can’t control where the beam is directed.
• Feathers: Chewing on feathers satisfies a cat’s natural craving to HUNT, but swallowing them can lead to an intestinal blockage. As with other toys that might accidentally be swallowed, feathers are ok –under supervision!

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 How often should I play with my cat?

In my day job at a cat-only veterinary clinic, I’ve found that people often choose cats as pets because they believe cats are so independent that they don’t need much attention. And it’s true, cats ARE very independent. They are solitary hunters who can be very territorial, and famously have minds of their own. 

But, cats are still social mammals that crave affection and bonding just like we do. And, just like us, they need exercise, variety, and mental stimulation! So how often should you play with your cat?

Image via Jessica L. Fisher

The feline experts at Cat Behavior Associates recommend one to two 15-minute interactive play sessions with you a day. Each play session should end with allowing your cat to “catch” the toy, and getting a treat reward, so she can feel like a successful hunter!

I know, we are all busy, and that sounds like a lot. If you’re not there yet, try working in a few minutes of playtime with your cat every night before you go to bed. It will be fun for both of you, and will help her get rid of excess energy so she doesn’t wake you up mewling at 4am. 

While not a replacement for “live” playtime with you, automatic toys can help supplement these play sessions for the extra lively cat. Give these toys a try: 

Electronic Cat Toys 

SmartyKat Hot Pursuit: My personal favorite! Know a cat that loves to attack your feet under the covers? Who doesn’t! This toy mimics that movement perfectly. It even got my timid senior kitty to overcome his fear of toys! 

Purrfect Feline Premium Interactive Cat Toy

Adrance Electronic Interactive Cat Toy 

If you are providing your kitty with regular interactive play, window perches, and other stimulation, but still find that he is keeping you up at all hours tearing through the house, consider leash-training him for outdoor play sessions!

Photo via Adventure Cats

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Do cat toys need to be cleaned?

I’m not a germophobe, but every now and then I notice my cat Jax use the litter box, and then immediately start swatting his favorite catnip mouse around. EW.

Cats really care about having a clean environment, but they do clean themselves with their tongues, and then carry their toys in their mouths. Let’s give their toys a quick clean once in a while for everyone’s sake.

Image via Amazon

How to clean cat toys:

• Plush toys: Toss them in the washing machine with a scent-free detergent (cats have a strong sense of smell!). It’s best to place the toys in a delicates bag so they don’t get too roughed up. Air dry or tumble dry low.
• Rubber or plastic toys: Soak in hot soapy water for 20 minutes, then rinse and air dry.
• Catnip-filled toys: Catnip will not survive a soaking, so it’s best to spot-clean with a lightly damp cloth. If the toy is refillable, you can empty out the catnip, wash the toy as above, and then fill with new catnip.
• Toys with feathers: Feather toys also won’t make it through the wash, so you’ll have to spot-clean these as well.
• Cat trees: Use a vacuum hose or lint roller to clean off cat hair, then use a damp soapy rag to spot-clean any soiled areas.

Speaking of soiled, the best cleaning product to clean up cat pee, vomit, or poop, is Nature’s Miracle! It is formulated with enzymes that break down the waste. It REALLY saved the day when my feral cat started a literal pissing contest in my home!

• Cat beds: Vacuum or lint-roll periodically, and every now and then run them through a laundry cycle.

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How to Make Even More DIY Cat Toys

Did making the three modern DIY cat toys above get you hooked? Check out these ideas too!

Image by Club Crafted

1. DIY Macaron Cat Toys: This is quite possibly the cutest homemade cat toy tutorial I’ve seen! And also, puts me in the mood for macarons…

Image by Dans le Lakehouse

2. Easy Felted Fish Catnip Toy: I love this DIY catnip toy because felt holds up well to claws. 

Image by Joy the Baker

3. DIY Cat Wand Toy With Felt: This wand toy has multiple strands for kitty to chase!

Image by Smart Savvy Living

4. DIY Toilet Paper Roll Treat Ball: Who knew you could use empty toilet paper rolls to make free DIY cat toys?!

Image via Catster

5. Five DIY Cat Toys you can make with Toilet Paper Rolls: This blogger shares five more ways to make a cat toy out of empty toilet paper rolls. So smart!

Image by The Merrythought

6. DIY Cat Wand with Pom Poms: For the modern cat, try this minimal DIY cat wand toy.

Image via Smiling Paws Pets

7. DIY Cat Food Puzzle: If you’d rather skip the plumbing aisle in my tutorial above, you can use a cardboard box to make a DIY puzzle feeder for your cat. 

Image via Purina One

8. DIY Egg Puzzle Feeder: A water bottle also makes a great cat food puzzle. In both cases, be careful not to leave sharp edges that can cut your cat’s paws.

Image by Bella Dia

9. Rainbow Flyer Kitty Toy: This is a DIY wand toy your cats and your kids are sure to love.

Image by Muslin & Merlot

10. DIY T-shirt Cat Toy: Whip up a bunch of these free homemade cat toys using old t-shirts — so you can spend more money on your cat, as she demands. 

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DIY Cat Condos

Climbers, trees, teepees, and beds — these are the best of the best!

Image by  Craftifair

1. DIY Wood Cat Tent: This sweet homemade cat tent allows your cat to hide, rest, scratch, and look so hip all at once!

Image by The Merrythought

2.  Wall-mounted Cat Hammock: This simple yet stylish DIY cat hammock stays tucked out of the way by being mounted on the wall. 

Image by Simple Stylings

3. DIY Cat Shelves: Nearly invisible thanks to paint that matches the wall color, this wall-mounted option looks sleek and functions as perfect vertical space for your cat to survey his kingdom. 

Image via @astrideudeline

4. Faux Cactus Cat House: There’s no tutorial posted for this cute faux cactus cat condo, but the picture is pretty clear! Just make sure to sand the cut edges of the pot so kitty doesn’t cut herself. 

Image by A Pair & A Spare

5. DIY Mid Century Pet Bed: You can adapt the plans for this dog bed to fit your cat…or give your cat a dog-sized bed, I’m sure she’ll love the extra space to sprawl. 

Image by Brittany Goldwyn

6. DIY Cat Tree with Real Branches: Real branches bring the outdoors in for your cat, and for you.  

Images via IKEA Netherlands

7. IKEA Hack Cat Hammock and IKEA Hack Cat Shelf: Talk about cheap and easy; see how this blogger hacked two IKEA products to make a cat hammock and a cat perch! 

Image by Hoosier Homemade 

8. DIY Pallet Cat Condo: You can turn old pallets into a DIY cat condo with this clever tutorial. 

Image by Brittany Goldwyn

9. IKEA Hack Cat Condo: Another IKEA hack! This blogger turned two LACK tables into a multi-level cat chill zone.

Image via  Juxtapost

10. DIY Ladder Cat Tree: This is my favorite DIY ladder cat tree — don’t you love the eclectic colors?

Image by Meow Lifestyle

11. Free DIY Cat Tent: You’ll love the cost of this DIY cat tent: absolutely free. See how to turn scarves and branches into an elegant, boho cat hideout.

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DIY Cat Scratching Posts

Image by A Beautiful Mess

1.  DIY Cat Scratching Post in Colorblock: Beautiful AND functional, this scratching post is the perfect place for cats to reach up and scraaaaatch. Scratching is an important part of play, too, to allow cats to establish their territories.

Image by Best Friends Pizza Club

2. DIY Cactus Cat Scratcher: What’s better than cats? Cats and cacti, of course.

Image by Almost Makes Perfect

3. Minimal DIY Cat Scratcher: Not all cats like vertical scratchers; it’s good to have a horizontal option too! This DIY scratcher fits the bill and looks chic doing it.

Image via HGTV

4. DIY Doormat Cat Scratcher: This idea couldn’t be easier: a cat scratcher made from a coir doormat!

Image by Shrimp Salad Circus

5. DIY Rainbow Cat Scratching Post 

Image by Design*Sponge

6. DIY Hanging Cat Scratcher

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The Best Cat Toys to Buy

To buy, or DIY? That’s always the question for us makers. If you’re looking fore more time to play with your feline family members, consider going with store-bought toys.

I showed you my favorite electronic cat toys above. Now, give these other options a try.

Interactive Cat Toys

Interactive cat toys allow you and your cat to play together. These are toys that you bring to life for your cat during your play sessions. From my experience with my own cats, and what I’ve learned working in a cat hospital, these are my favorites:

Image via Amazon

1. GoCat Da Bird

This wand toy is an absolute MUST for cat households. Even if you think your cat doesn’t like chasing birds after testing his prey preference, it’s worth giving Da Bird a go. It truly is the best cat wand toy on the market. 

When you twirl the wand in the air, the feathers make a “whoosh,” just like bird wings in flight. Every cat I’ve used this toy with has leaped and even somersaulted to try to catch it!

Image via Doctors Foster and Smith

2. Leaps & Bounds Caterpillar Cat Teaser 

This toy is great for cats who prefer a prey that “skitters.” Twitch it along the floor and watch them pounce!

Image via Jackson Galaxy

3. Ground Prey Telescoping Wand

Another skittering toy, this one from Jackson Galaxy, is perfect to tantalize cats who respond to insect hunting.  

Image via Amazon

4. Cat Dancer 

Another personal favorite. I mean of course, personal favorite of Jax. The Cat Dancer is a cheap but amazing cat toy that bounces around at the slightest hand motion, fluttering erratically like a moth. You’ll be amazed at how little effort it takes to get the laziest cat on her feet with this toy.

Chewy Cat Toys

Cats love to rip and gnaw and BITE their prey. These toys encourage cats that like to chew to direct that energy to the right place, rather than your shoes. 

Image via Amazon

1. Petstages Dental Kitty Chew Wheel

Ideal for younger cats, but still good for adults—this toy satisfies that urge some cats have to chew on everything.

Image via  Petsmart

2.  Petstages Catnip Chew Mouse

Another Petstages winner! This toy gets my vote for best chewy cat toy because…it has catnip in it. So of course it will attract that pesky chewy cat!

Image via Chewy

3. Northmate Catch Interactive Cat Feeder 

While not a toy exactly, this feeder treats a chewing-related issue: eating too fast. To get her dry food dinner, your cat will have to grab the kibble with her paws, forcing her to eat more slowly. No more post-meal vomiting!

Cat Trees and Cat Condos 

Image via Amazon

1. Songmics Cat Tree

How beautiful is this sleek and modern cat tree? I like that it doesn’t have any carpet fibers for my cat to shred and scatter, and cats generally prefer sisal for scratching. The tree is small and space-saving, provides a perch with a rim the cat can snuggle against, multiple levels, and a little hiding hole. This one is on my shopping list for Jax!

Image via Overstock

2. Sophia Wall-Mounted Cat Shelves

Cat shelves are a great choice for agile apartment cats and their space-lacking humans.  

Image via Amazon

3. Furhaven Deluxe Playground 

For those who have more floor space, this cat condo has it all: plenty of scratching posts, perches on multiple levels, and even an integrated puzzle toy!

Image via Amazon

4. PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge

I’ve seen this lounger in action, and the glowing reviews are fully justified. Cats love it!

Image via Amazon

5. Vesper Cat Tree 

If you’re looking for a mid century style cat tree, this is the highest-rated choice. The best part is the huge sisal poles for scratching.

Image via Amazon

6. Songmics Large Multi-Level Cat Tower 

Cats are excellent time-sharers, but when you have a large fur family, it’s best to provide everyone with a perch. That’s why this cat tree is a great option for multi-cat households.

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Cat Videos for Cats

Image by Gary Allman

We’ve all seen cats gazing out the window, watching for birds, squirrels, and rival cats. But some cats also enjoy watching these things on TV! For these kitties, you might want to consider playing some cat videos just for cats when you’re away.

Is it ok for cats to watch TV?

It is perfectly fine for your cat to watch TV. It won’t damage his eyes or rot his brain.

There are two caveats though:

• Cat TV is NOT a replacement for playing with your cat. He still needs mental stimulation, exercise, and socialization, just like you do.
• Your cat may try to pounce at or swipe the TV. Make sure it is properly secured, because kitty can’t tell the difference between the bird outside the window and the one on the screen!

Ok now that we’ve covered that, let’s look at some fun videos to entertain your cat!

1. Garden Birds #7

Image via TV-Bini

2. Birds and Squirrels

Image via YouTube

3. Night Birds 

Image via TV Bini

4. Ultimate Bird Video 

Image via YouTube

5. BONUS: Music for cats

Image by Music for Cats

The cat hospital where I work sometimes plays this CD to help mellow out stressed cats. It’s been scientifically proven to be calming to cats!

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Ok cat-crazy people. You’re armed with a whole host of ideas on how to keep your cat entertained. Now we want to hear your tips! What DIY cat toys have you made before? How does your cat like to play? And what’s the funniest thing your cat has ever done? Tell us your stories below! 

10 Homemade Cat Toys Your Cats Will Go Wild For

Cats love to play. Whether it’s scratching their claws on a post, chasing balls around the house, or pouncing on mouse toys, playtime is an essential part of your kitty’s day. But after a while, you’re going to get sick of running to the pet store in search of new toys every time your fur baby gets bored or destroys your latest buy. Plus, cat toys can be fun to make!

Try these 10 easy DIY cat toys – from no sew pom poms to DIY scratching posts. Let us know how it goes!

1. No Sew Pom Poms

Materials: string, fleece, scissors

Pom poms are hugely popular with kitties. They love soft toys they can pounce on, bat, and chew. If you want to give your cat a fun pom pom but don’t know how to sew, don’t despair. No sewing skills are required for these soft kitty pom poms. All you’ll need is string, scissors, and a piece of fleece two inches wide and a foot long. Best of all, you can do this whole project in about 10 minutes. 

2. Ball of Yarn

Materials: ball of yarn

There’s a reason so many pictures show cats chasing yarn. Your tabby’s great-great-something grandparents were fearsome hunters, and your cat has kept those natural hunting instincts. When a string of yarn comes loose or a ball rolls across the floor, your feline goes into full hunter mode. Yarn might also remind your kitty of snakes, which would explain why they want to attack it. 

So if you’re looking for an easy toy to keep your feline friend busy, you can’t go wrong with a ball of yarn. Just know that you may have to wind up a lot of yarn after your cat finishes destroying its “prey.”

3. Yarn Pom Poms

Materials: Yarn, scissors

Want something a little fancier than just a ball of yarn? Try yarn pom poms. They’re a piece of cake to make, and the only materials you need are yarn and scissors.

4. Toilet Paper Roll Chaser

Materials: Toilet paper roll or paper towel roll

Optional: Catnip or cat treats, string or yarn, feathers, hot glue

Finally, something to do with your old toilet paper rolls. Once the paper’s off, hand them over to your kitty! Cats love chewing and shredding cardboard, so with any luck, you won’t even have to modify the roll. But if you want to up the challenge for your little tiger, you can always put some catnip inside and fold the ends closed. You can also attach a string to one end, glue some colorful feathers to the other end, and voila! You’ve got a dangly, chase-worthy toy for your fur baby. You can even use a paper towel roll for a bigger toy.

The best part about this toy is that the possibilities are endless. Instead of a dangly toy, you could leave off the string and give your feline friend a rolling toy they can chase across the floor. When your cat gets tired of the feathers, bust out a new roll and glue colorful pom poms onto it, or cut some holes and stick in a few bendy straws. Let your imagination run wild! 

5. Cardboard House

Materials: Cardboard box, scissors

Optional: spray paint, construction paper, hot glue or tape

You may have noticed your kitty likes to hang out in cardboard boxes. Enclosed spaces help cats feel safe and reduce their stress. So if you’ve got a cardboard box lying around, turn it into a cozy hideout for your fur baby. Cut a hole in it for your cat to use as a doorway, and throw a blanket in there so they can get comfortable. Let the purrs begin!

If you want to take things to the next level, you could even remodel that box into a cute cat house. Spray paint the inside or outside, cut out some construction paper shingles, and make a chimney from one of the box flaps. You can also forget the construction paper and just paint the box to look like a house.

6. Cat Tent

Materials: Medium t-shirt, 15″ by 15″ piece of cardboard, two wire hangers, tape, four safety pins, pliers

Here’s another idea for your feline’s top secret hideout. Got an old t-shirt you don’t know what to do with? Repurpose it to make the perfect cat tent! All the materials for this DIY project are things you probably have already, and the tent is a cinch to make. Just follow the steps in this Friskies tutorial. Complete the tent by throwing a cuddly blanket inside. 

Of course, there’s no guarantee your little tiger won’t destroy the tent you lovingly created for them. But you won’t know until you try!

7. T-shirt Bows

Materials: T-shirts, scissors

While you’re looking for ways to reuse those old t-shirts, try making these ridiculously easy toys from Muslin and Merlot. Just cut an old t-shirt into a 3 by 10 inch rectangle and tie it into a knot. For the most colorful, cat-friendly toy, cut up a few different colored shirts and tie them together.

8. Cat Wand 

Materials: wooden dowel, twine, fabric or hot glue, scissors

Optional: Feathers, fabric scraps, bells

Cats can entertain themselves for hours chasing balls of yarn or scratching to their hearts’ content, but when you want to play with your furry friend, nothing does the trick like a wand toy.  

To make a cat wand, wrap twine around a wooden dowel and leave 10 to 12 inches of twine at the end to dangle. Glue the twine in place at both ends of the dowel. Now comes the fun part. Find some things you can dangle from the end of the wand: feathers, fabric scraps, bells, or other colorful items. Tie or glue them onto the end of the twine and you’re ready for playtime! Dangle the toy in front of your furry friend and watch them go crazy.

9. Scratching Post

Scratching posts are a great way for your kitty to keep their claws healthy. But if you’ve got a cat who likes to scratch, you may find yourself replacing their scratcher a little more often than you’d like. A DIY scratching post can be a more affordable option, and if you do it right, can last for years. 

This homemade cat scratcher from Dream a Little Bigger is definitely more involved than your average DIY cat toy, but the work pays off.  

If you’re looking for something slightly easier, you might try wrapping a traffic cone in rope. We recommend sisal, the best rope for cat scratchers. You could even glue some pom poms on for a fun, colorful scratching toy. 

10. DIY Cat Tree

If you’re feeling really ambitious, you might try a DIY cat tree. You’ll probably need to purchase supplies for this one, but you might have some things around the house you can repurpose too, like a basket, rope, and cardboard boxes. You’re also going to need specific tools, like a hammer, table saw, and staple gun. But if you love breaking out the tools and going to work, this could be a fun project – and your feline friend will love having their own cat tree!

Ready, set, play!

Ready to dangle wands, throw balls, and refill catnip? The fun never stops with your little fur baby.

40 DIY Cat Toys Every Cat-Lover (and Their Cats) Will Adore

Alright, crazy cat people – we’ve finally put together the perfect DIY article for you! The best way to show your kitties how much you love them is by crafting them toys, beds, treats, and party hats! (Yes, I said party hats. )

If you’re tired of spending way too much money on toxic plastic toys or expensive unhealthy treats you’ve come to the right place! This article is filled with DIY projects, especially for your kitten! You’ll see naturally-made toys, healthy treats, comfy beds, and stylish scratching posts that you and your cat will love.

So let’s take a look at 40 DIY projects for cat owners.

1. Fruits and Veggies

These natural and healthy cat treats are filled with sesame seeds, catnip and don’t have any toxic plastics that could harm your feline friend.

2. Cat Box Cabinet

Hide that smelly kitty stuff and keep it out of sight with your cats own personal cabinet with lots of storage room.

3. Wine Cork Toys

Have some fun with your little kittens and get them running around and playing with easy to make wine cork toys.

4. Stylish Scratch Post

Make a scratching post that is stylish and looks cute sitting on the carpet, so you don’t have to worry about hiding it when you have guests over.

5. Cat Treat Toy

A super simple, super easy and super cheap cat toy that anyone can make! Upcycle those toilet paper rolls into cat treat toys.

6. Cat Tent

Got an old t-shirt that you don’t use anymore? Instead of donating it, you can upcycle it into a hideaway for your cat!

7. Felt Mouse

We all know how much cats to love to chase mice! That’s why you can be sure your cat will love this handmade toy.

8. Kitty Window Perch

Your cat loves to sunbathe just as much as you do, which is why she’ll be ever so thankful when you build her a comfortable window perch!

9. Crochet Cat Bed

This popular and cute tutorial where the cat ‘helps’ with the knitting, does have an English version towards the end. Maybe your kitty will be just as interested in the creation process.

10. Pet Bowl Stand

Your furry friends will need a special place to eat and drink water which is why you should build them a cute pet bowl stand. Especially helpful for elderly cats.

11. No-Sew Goldfish

An easy DIY project that you can whip up in just a matter of moments when you see that your cat is bored.

12. Pom-Pom Cat Wand

Run around the house with your cat wand and your cat will be jumping up and down trying to grab the fun pom-poms you made yourself!

13. Feather Toys

Your little bohemian kitten will love playing with these wonderfully easy-to-make feather toys that are stylish and fun!

14. Fortune Cookies

Will your kitties have the good fortune of receiving a new handmade cat toy from their loving owner?

15. Three Ingredient Cat Treats

Your cat deserves only the best which is why they deserve treats made out of healthy and simple ingredients.

16. Scratch Pad and Wand

A matching set! These beautiful cat toys are so pretty that you will want to leave them out to be shown off!

17. Cat Van

Let your cat live the van life with a super awesome DIY cat bed that looks like an old-school Volkswagen van!

18.

Cat Puzzle

You cat will exercise it’s brain while simultaneously having fun with this DIY cat puzzle that you create for it.

19. Pom-Poms

You cat can pretty much play with anything that’s easy to knock around and chase after which is why these homemade pom-poms DIY cat toys are sure to do the trick!

20. T-Shirt Bonbons

Another way to upcycle old t-shirts into cute (budget-friendly) bonbon DIY cat toys for your kittens to have fun with.

21. Cat Teepee

Your cat’s bed should be just as stylish as your own! Your friends will be asking you where you bought this awesome cat teepee! You can proudly tell them that you made it yourself.

22. Crochet DIY Cat Toy

This DIY cat toy is made from a cardboard toilet paper roll and then crocheted with a beautiful color and decorated with a bell.

23. Cat Treat Holder

An adorable place to store your cat’s treats! Made from an upside down terracotta pot and a glass fishbowl!

24.

Cat Condo

This DIY cat condo has it all! A place to scratch, a place to claw, a place to rest and toys to play with!

25. Cat Scratcher

Your cat loves to scratch, but maybe it’s scratching all the wrong places (like your sofas!) Craft your little kitty a place where it can scratch all it wants!

26. Cat Shelves

Goodbye cat towers and hello cat shelves! These shelves are colorful, stylish and a wonderful gift to your furry friend!

27. Junk Food

Your cat probably loves junk food just as much as you do! But just like you, it shouldn’t be eating it! That’s what these toys are for.

28. Cat Condo 2

Here’s another cat condo design that still has all the places to sleep, scratch, play, and claw but with a different look!

29. Personalized Cat Bed

Personalize your cat’s bed with their image and name decorated on their homemade cat bed!

30. Cat Tree

This DIY cat tree is made out of real branches placed above river rocks and decorated with colorful leaves. An excellent way to give them a sense of the outdoors.

31. Sushi Toys

Cool cat toys that look like tiny sushis made from felt! Will you make this your weekend project?

32. Jungle Gym Ladder

Transform an old step ladder into a cat bed and scratching post and then add some toys so your kittens can have some fun!

33. Scratching Vase

Add some scratching material to an existing vase but make sure it’s got a steady base, so it doesn’t get knocked over!

34. Cat Hammock

Your cat will absolutely love this stylish, comfortable and unique DIY cat hammock as a place to chill out and think about mice!

35. Party Hats

Okay, this is seriously way too adorable! Your little kitty got a big birthday coming up? Party in style with party hats!

36. Cat Collar

Especially if your cat is an outdoor cat, you will want to make sure your little cutie doesn’t get lost! So make a collar and add a name tag with your phone number!

37.

CAT-CAT

If your cat is your best friend, then you won’t mind taking the time to build the absolute coolest Star Wars bed ever!

38. Fishing Pole

Got an itch to go fishing? Well throw your line out and see if you can catch yourself a friendly cat!

39. Litter Box Cover

Cover up that ugly litter box and give it a fresh look with a house shaped cover and cat face shaped door.

40. Tuna Catnip

Surprise your kitty on its birthday not with a birthday cake but with delicious homemade catnip treats!

 

So my feline lover friends, what’d you think? I think that I’ve got some serious projects to do this weekend so I can show my cat how much I love him! I’m thinking about making a stylish cat hammock for my buddy to laze around in, some healthy cat snacks and an adorable feather toy!

Show how much you love your little kitty by DIYing a special project for him or her!

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25 Homemade DIY Cat Toys That Are Easy To Make

Whether you need to make your cats be physically fit or you want them to be more social, just go with these 25 easy homemade DIY cat toys that your cats love to play with. From food inspired cat toys to lovely stuffed mouses, this homemade cat toys collection is having all that can please a cat. Make the cat toy gyms at home that will stimulate your cats to jump and hence will improve their physical health. Make the cat toys on sticks, and also, the cat toy wands will provide hours of fun to your kids.

See readymade designs of all popular DIY cat toys by browsing this collection of 25 easy to make homemade cat toys that will help reduce your cat’s boredom. The stuffed mouse toys will work great for kittens to make them learn to mouse. These DIY cat toys can be the best gifts for your cats and will be budget-friendly to make at home.

These DIY cat toys will be an instant solution to calm your scared cats. Build the cat condo out of the stool, and this will help your lazy cat to be active. If your cats are suffering from some behavioral problems, then these toys will be an instant cheap treatment to bring them to make to behave normal.

Providing these DIY cat toys to your cats will also reduce their biting the furniture habits, so there will be no damage to your furniture. The cat toy gyms will improve the blood circulation of your cats, and this will be a smart way for your cat to relieve stress. Just browse all these DIY cat toys projects that are just the better gifts to think for the cat owners too.

1. DIY Conversation Heart Pet Toy

Let your cats be more healthy by playing with these soft conversation heart toys. Grab a paper heart template and then cut the felt heart shapes, sew them together and stuff with polyfill. Finish with iron-on letters and then provide them to your cats to start the fun play. Find these DIY cat toys here abeautifulmess

2. Homemade Felt Macaron Cat Toys

Help release your cat’s boredom with these felt macarons that are colorful and will provide hours of fun to your kids. Grab the pastel felt, contrasting felt, pillow stuffing, catnip, and pencil to make these felt macaron DIY kitten toys. These DIY cat toys are super soft to touch. clubcrafted

3. Build a Cat Play Gym

Maintain the good health of your cats by installing this gym as a DIY cat toy that will be loved dearly by all cat lovers. Mainly the gym is made of wood like with 1x2x8′ and 3/4” wood dowels. Next, you need 4′ of rope to control the leg stretch. Finally, hang the colorful lengths of ribbon to threaded dowel. Details here charlestoncrafted

4. Easy DIY T-shirt Cat Toy

Recycle your old t-shirts and make these candy-like handmade cat toys, they will raise the fun of your cats and are super quick to make. using 2-3 t-shirts, you can make dozens of these DIY cat toys. Just take the t-shirts into strips and then roll them up and tie a knot in the center. Pretty simple and quick. muslinandmerlot

5. DIY Felt Mouse Cat Toy

Let your cats practice the mouse hunt at home using these felt mouse cat toys. They are super quick and easy to build. Just grab a mouse template and cut the felt pieces, do a little needle and thread work to sew the sides and add the eyes and nose using a colorful twine and add matching thread as the tail of the mouse. Details here liagriffith

6. How To Make a Pom-pom Cat Wand

Keep your cats mentally and physically fit using this pom-pom cat wind. Using pom-pom maker and yarn in your favorite color to make colorful pom-poms or tassels. Next, add them on a piece of rope or string to make this pom-pom cat want, hang it on the doorknob or on wall hooks for your cat to play with. thinkmakeshare

7. Feather Cat Toy

One more amazing inspirations to make fun-making cat toys. Grab a feather template and use it to cut feathers out of feeling sheets. Cut fringes insides of feathers and add jump rings for jingle bell hanging embellishments. Finally, get these jingle bell feathers on to a piece of rope to hang on the wall hooks. marthastewart

8. DIY Ribbon Cat Toy

Make this another colorful toy for your cat using a handful of supplies. Just put together some colorful ribbons, faux feathers on a wooden ruler, and on a piece of rope to build this cat toy. The cats will love to jump high to play with this toy, and this will help built strong muscles in them. bowdabra

9. Fishing Pole Cat Toy

You will love making this fishing pole cat toy at home, will complete in no time. Use the felt and a fish template to make the fish and stuff them up with catnip or polyfill. Use matching embroidery floss to stitch the sides. Get them on to a 16” dowel and use a thin rope as a fishing line. Details here liagriffith

10. Cutest Little Feather Cat Toy

Provide your cats a never-ending fun using this cutest little cat toy, will complete in no time. Here all you need glue, feathers, bells, string, and a wooden stick to make this sweet cat toy. These feather toys, if hanging on a height, will be the cutest gym for your cats for sure. scatteredthoug

11. Cat Toys from Cotton Precuts

Make this one of the sweetest cat toys at home using the cotton precuts, 1/2 cup dried catnip, embroidery floss, candle wicking, bells, and matching sewing thread. These toys look like a bigger mouse and will be a smart toy choice to make the kitten learn to mouse. Learn how to make cat toys out of household items at home. joybileefarm

12. Make a Fleece Catnip Toy

Reduce the boredom of your cats with this fleece catnip toy that is quite something quick and easy to make. Just grab the felt, catnip, batting, riff-raff, dowel rod, and embroidery thread to make this fleece catnip toys, will work up super quickly. It just likes the pom-pom wand toy for the cats. Details here designlovefest

13. DIY Junk Food Cat Toy

Help your cats to be more social by providing these junk food cat toys, and they are too soft and cuddle to calm a scared cat. Here you need the felt in colors of choice, junk food templates, and loose catnip to make this junk food cat toy. Use the yarn needle and embroidery thread to stitch the sides of stuffed toys. Follow this tutorial to make your own DIY cat toys! abeautifulmess

14. Handmade Fish Cat Toy

Help your kittens learn to fish using this fish cat toy. Just cut the fish felt pieces according to your fish template and then stuff your fish. Connect the fish to a wooden dowel through a piece of white rope, and the fish cat toy is ready to create too much fun for your cat. Details here saltwaterdaugh

15. Kit Tea Catnip Cat Toys

Reduce the biting and scratching of your cats by providing these kit tea catnip cat toys. They are quick and cheap to make, and you can even use leftover fabric and felt to make these kit tea catnip cat toys. You need fabric, catnip, felt, string, and poly-fil to make these plush cat toys. sewlicioushome

16. Felt Sushi Cat Toy

If your cat’s do great damage to your furniture and plants by biting and scratching, then reduce this bad habit of them by providing these stuffed felt sushi. They are quite fun-making plush toys for the cats to make in no time. You need wood blend felt, embroidery floss, and catnip to make it. liagriffith

17. Menswear Mouse Toy

A mouse is one of the favorite foods for a cat, so make lovely stuffed mouse toys at home using old menswear like cotton shirting, wool suiting, and cotton velvet. Use a mouse template and cut your pieces out of the decided fabrics. Next, use a sewing machine, fusible webbing, fill loop turner, and embroidery floss to complete these mouse toys for cats. marthastewart

18. Wooden Dowel Cat Toy

Spend a few minutes with the ordinary supplies and materials and make this fun-making wooden dowel cat toy. Grab a wooden dowel, shoelaces, eyelash yarn, jingle bells, and lycra cord and scissors to make this wooden dowel cat toy. A colorful cat toy to make in no time. amylattacrea

19. Traffic Cone Cat Scratching Posts

The cats just love to scratch by nature, so you can start a never-ending fun of them by making these traffic cone cat scratching posts for them. This will help reduce scratching and biting of your cats too. Just spray paint the traffic cones in white, wrap the rope around them, and use glue to secure them in place. Adorn it more using pom-poms. sofancyblog

20. DIY Cat Condo from a Stool

This cat toy will complete in just 20 minutes and require a medium skill level. Just grab a stool and over its padded sea and bottom footrest or shelf with at fabric. Adorn it more with eyelash yarn and wrap them around the stool legs to get the scratching posts. Boost its fun by adding cat toys on a stick. dianarambles

21. Homemade Cat Jungle Gym

Are you making efforts to keep your lazy cat physically fit? Then do build this cat jungle gym, which will stimulate your cats to do regular exercise. Just grab a wooden step ladder and wrap the rope around its rungs and vertical supports to get the cat scratching posts. Adjust a cat bed on the top and finish with a cat wand toy. To make these DIY kitten toys follow the tutorial here. buzzfeed

22. Cat Tree Using a Real Tree

A cat tree is one of the best cat gyms ever. So, why not build a natural-looking cat tree using a real tree? Grab 2 tree branches and make them look natural using faux vines. Wrap the rope around a wood dowel to make the posts and use pine wood, plywood, rocks and stepping stones to build the base. Details here bybrittanygol

23. DIY Natural Cat Toys You Can

Make also natural-looking cat toys at home using the hollow papier mache shapes. Fill the shapes with grains like sesame seed and with catnip and then wrap the colorful twisted paper all around them. Use craft glue to secure each loop of twisted paper firmly in place. Details here prodigalpieces

24. DIY Cat Toys Using Old Baby Socks

How to make cat toys out of household items? Repurpose the baby socks too to make fun-making toys for your cats. Here you only need a handful of supplies to make these cat toys, the great stash buster project. Stuff the old baby socks with scrap paper or cardstock and then tie the string or yarn around the opening to get them closed. Details here crayonsandcra

25. Hanging Cat Scratcher

Upcycle the vintage graters also to make lovely DIY cat toys like this hanging at scratcher. Take a piece of canvas cloth to cover the bottom of the grater and then wrap the fabric all around the grater like a bandage. Finally, wrap the rope around the fabric-covered grater and get a lovely cat scratcher. sadieseasongo

Conclusion:

If your cats are putting a lot of weight and becoming lazy, then let them play with these DIY Cat Toys. These homemade cat toys will raise the fun and physical activities of your cats and hence removing laziness, stress, and boredom of your cat. From making lovely stuffed mouse to adorable felt fishes to fabric candies, these cat toy projects have all that can pleas a cat.

Most of these DIY cat toys project are beginner-friendly and will cost you next to nothing. You will also get step-by-step instructions and tutorials about how to make cat toys on a stick that will raise the fun of your cats to the next level for sure.

DIY Cat Projects You Can Make At Home

• 22 DIY Cat Tree Plans To Build For Your Feline Friend
• 10 Best DIY Cat Wheel Plans
• 20 DIY Cat Bed Ideas To Give Your Cat A Comfy Sleep
• 10 DIY Outdoor Cat House Ideas To Build Cheaply
• 14 Best DIY Cat Shelves To Build for Your Feline Friend
• 20 Free DIY Cat House Plans
• 15 Best Outdoor Cat Tree Ideas and Plans
• 10 DIY Cat Wheelchair Ideas For Disabled Cats
• 20 DIY Cardboard Cat House Ideas
• 14 Free Crochet Cat Bed Patterns
• 15 Best DIY Cat Scratching Post Plans
• 20 Free DIY Cat Tree House Plans
• 30 Free DIY Catio Plans and Ideas
• 7 Easy DIY Cat Fountain Ideas
• 30 Best DIY Outdoor Cat House Plans

10 DIY Cat Toys and Games That You Can Make at Home

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By Roxanna Coldiron September 24, 2019

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cat playing with fuzzy ball toy

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The family pet should have its own stash of playthings—toys, games, and playgrounds to explore. Our homemade toys are often sturdier and more attractive than the store-bought kind, and they make great gifts for a feline companion.

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cat playing with fuzzy ball toy

Credit: WaitforLight / Getty

Cats are very intelligent and inquisitive animals. Indoor kitties are especially prone to boredom if they don’t receive enough mental stimulation and physical exercise. “If cats aren’t getting enough play, it can affect their whole modus operandi, and their usual habits can change,” cat behaviorist and author Carole Wilbourn previously told us. “They can become destructive and aggressive because they have all of this bottled-up energy. ” In short, your purring sweethearts can turn into cats from hell without regular attention and playtime.

But you don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars in order to give your kitties the playground of their dreams. Set up your living room, or another room dedicated to your cats, by adding tall cat trees and perches. Give them space to run around like the little wild animals that they are and provide toys that give them the opportunity to practice their pouncing and hunting skills. Because cats are bound to have full reign of the house, you can also entertain them in other rooms as you go about the day. Nothing excites most cats more than dangly toys. Yours will let out a happy little meow whenever she sees the familiar pole and dangly plush at the end!

You should also remember to put toys away at night. Any toys that have small pieces can become choking hazards for your feline friends. Cleaning your pet’s toys on a regular basis also helps to minimize the germs. And because cats can become bored with their toys, it is recommended to rotate them as well. Keep your cats happy by making these DIY cat toys and games for your furbabies.

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Feather Cat Toy

la103157_1207_cattoy.jpg

Credit: Laura Moss

Get the Feather Cat Toy How-To

These feathers are made from colorful wool felt. Tie a satin cord and a bell around a few feathers to bring out the little hunter in your feline companion! Bring these toys out when you want to play with your cat and give her some exercise.

3 of 11

Knotted Ball

knotted cat toy hanging from doorknob

Credit: Kara Whitten

Get the Knotted Ball How-To

Simple and fun, you can upcycle an old t-shirt to make a ball that dangles from a doorknob. It will give your cat plenty of opportunities to swat and pounce. Her excitement will also be contagious!

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4 of 11

Cardboard Cat Playhouse

pc_wgd104781_cathouse3a.jpg

Credit: Johnny Miller

Get the Cardboard Cat Playhouse How-To

Turn some boxes into the ultimate cat playhouse. With doors and windows, your cat will have her own place within your home. She can hide, nap, and play in her cardboard house.

5 of 11

Menswear Mouse Toy

mld104586_0310_mice_v2.jpg

Credit: Dana Gallagher

Get the Menswear Mouse Toy How-To

You can upcycle some old menswear or buy menswear fabric from the store for this craft. These mouse toys are absolutely adorable and easy to make. Sewing and embroidery skills are required, but they’re a fun toy to put together.

6 of 11

Cactus Catnip Toy

Get the Cactus Catnip Toy How-To

Bring on the “pawty” with this cactus-shaped catnip toy. Most cats get a kick out of catnip, and your feline pal will have fun bunny-kicking this toy.

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7 of 11

Knit-Heart Catnip Toy

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Get the Knit-Heart Catnip Toy How-To

You love your cat, and your cat is probably fond of you, too! Show her some love by making knitted catnip heart toys that will entertain her until she’s ready for a nap…or to cuddle with you.

8 of 11

Baby-Sock Catnip Toy

kitten with Baby-Sock Catnip Toys

Credit: Stephen Lewis

Sometimes, simple is best, and this baby sock filled with catnip is proof. The Velcro closure allows you to replace the filling from time to time, keeping its appeal alive. Using a baby sock of your choosing, turn the sock inside out, and sew two strips of Velcro along the top (if using self-stick Velcro, follow directions on the package). Then, add a few stitches for extra security. Turn the sock right side out, fill, and close.

9 of 11

Knit Mouse Toy

knit mouse cat toy

Credit: Jason Frank Rothenberg

Get the Knit Mouse Toy How-To

If you can knit, you can make a whole family of itty-bitty mice. While amigurumi (the Japanese art of making small animals) allows you to craft all kinds of little creatures, we love the details on this one: round ears, whiskers, and a little tail.

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10 of 11

Fish Catnip Toy

fish catnip toy DIY

Credit: Stephen Lewis

Get the Fish Template

Fishing has always been a nice way for friends to commune; this catnip-filled fish on a pole lets a cat and his pal enjoy quality time together. Pin two pieces of fabric together with the wrong sides facing each other. Trace the fish template onto fabric using a disappearing-ink pen; stitch on top of tracing, leaving a 1-inch opening at the fin; cut out with pinking shears. Fill the toy with catnip using a funnel; stitch to close. Embroider eyes. For “fishing poles,” sew thick thread to the mouth and tie the other end to a dowel.

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Cat-Scratcher Magazine Rack

cat playing with scratch post magazine rack duo

Credit: Chelsea Cavanaugh

Get the Cat-Scratcher Magazine Rack How-To

Cats need to stretch their paws and scratch with their claws. Convert an old magazine rack into a cat scratcher that your cat can climb and sharpen her claws on.

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How to make a DIY toy for cats and cats: 50 ideas

Contents

1. Toys from old things
2. Simple toys from improvised objects
3. Cardboard toys
4. Toys from toilet paper tubes
5. Fabric and rope toys
6. Plastic toys

Toys made from old things

Sock ottoman

Fill the sock with padding polyester or Styrofoam beads, add some catnip and sew up the sock.

Source: crayonsandcravings.com

T-shirt bows

Cut an old jersey T-shirt into small strips, fold them together and tie them into bows.

Source: muslinandmerlot.blogspot.com

Shoelaces

Tie some shoelaces together and tease your cat with them.

Source: simplyemma.co.uk

Lounger

Cut old T-shirts into wide strips. Braid braids from stripes. Lay out the pigtails in a circle, sewing them together.

Source: barkpost.com

Glove with ribbons

Sew ribbons to the fingers of the gloves, put them on your hand and play with the cat.

Source: petdiys.com

T-shirt house

Make a house for your pet out of an old T-shirt. You will need wire hangers and a piece of cardboard. Detailed instructions here.

Source: dearcrissy.com

Simple toys from improvised objects

Cone

Bring a cone from the park and give it to your pet.

Source: www.reddit.com

Foil ball

Roll up a round foil ball and give it to the cat.

Source: diys.com

Ice Tray

Pour some dry food into the ice mold. The cat will get food with its paw and play.

Source: foodpuzzlesforcats.com

Wine cork

Tie a wine cork to a string and tease the cat.

Source: zooplus.co.uk

Pencils

Give your pet blunt pencils. Cats love to chew and roll them.

Source: unsplash

Wooden Sushi Sticks

If you don’t have pencils in your house, use sushi sticks instead.

Source: unsplash

Paper bag

Give your pet a paper bag. Cats love to sit in bags.

Source: wallpaperflare.com

Ping-Pong Tennis Ball

Choose balls that are strong and hard to chew through.

Source: unsplash

Cat TV

Place bird food outside the window and place a cat bed on the windowsill. An exciting movie for your pet has been shot.

Source: www.declawing.com

Ball

Tease your cat with a ball of thread.

Source: thecatsite.com

Balloon

If you are given a balloon, make a cat toy out of it. Tie some weighty object to the ribbon of the ball so that the ball falls lower. The cat will jump up and pull the object. Cats also play with pleasure with an ordinary balloon.

Cats love wool. Give your cat an old wool sock, she will be happy to play with it.

Source: tofukittyclub.com

Leaves

Bring leaves from the park and play with the cat.

Source: thecatsite.com

Paper ball

Crumple A4 sheet well and shape it into a ball. It’s so easy to make a toy for a cat out of paper. toilet paper Cats love to tear soft paper.

Source: imgur.com

Cardboard Toys

Rug

Cut corrugated cardboard into strips and twist it around until you get a rug as shown in the photo. Fasten the strips together with tape.

Source: craftingagreenworld.com

Maze

Take advantage of the natural curiosity of cats. Make holes in the cardboard box and put the balls inside. Here is a detailed instruction on how to make a toy for an adult cat and kittens with your own hands.

Source: cuteness.com

Large Tunnel

Glue several cardboard boxes together and poke holes in them. Read instructions , how to make your own cat toy.

Source: 3milliondogs.com

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Cardboard house

Cut several rings and circles of different sizes from corrugated cardboard and assemble them into a pyramid. Make a hole for the cat.

0022

Building a cardboard skyscraper scratching post for your pet. And here is how to do it.

Source: makezine.com

Box

Do not throw away cardboard boxes, cats love to sit in them. You can also put an old t-shirt on the box and make a hole for the neck. You will get a cat house.

Source: thediscerningcat.com

Mugs

Cut out corrugated cardboard mugs and lace them together.

Source: selfpackaging.com

Toilet paper tube toys

Garland

Cut the tube into strips and thread through them. The rope can be tied between the legs of the table so that the cat can reach the strips with its paws.

Source: caticles.com

Cells

Cats like to play with small objects and drive them into narrow cracks. Glue toilet paper rolls into a cardboard box and put paper balls or dry food in them. toilet paper roll Make the game even more interesting by threading cocktail tubes through the sleeve.

Source: zooplus.co.uk

Tower of rolls

Attach the rolls of toilet paper in different sequences, the cat will be happy to stick its paws in them.

Source: diys.com

Rattle

Put dry food in the toilet paper roll and close the ends of the roll. The food will rattle, smell and lure the cat.

Source: gluesticksgumdrops.com

Ball

Cut the sleeve into rings and glue them crosswise so that you get a sphere.

Source: 3milliondogs.com

Cloth and rope toys

Knitted ball

Tie several identical colored balls. They will keep your cat’s attention for a long time. And here is the instruction on how to do it.

Source: https://gina-michele.com

Felt toys

You can sew a wide variety of cat toys from felt. Put sintepuh and catnip inside.

Source: onmyhonoriwilltry.blogspot.com

Stuffed mouse

Here’s a cute mouse you can sew from the leftover scraps. Attached are the instructions.

Source: thesprucecrafts.com

Cat Candy

Place a piece of cotton wool in a piece of fabric and secure the fabric with a rope.

www.southernmomloves.com.

Source: irresistiblepets.net

Pompom

Make a pom pom using thread and hands. Here is an instruction on how to make a toy for a cat.

Source: popsugar.com<

Rope scratching post

Wrap a table leg with sisal or jute. These types of ropes are perfect for sharpening claws. Fasten the ropes well.

Kitnipbox.com

Felt sandwich

And another interesting version of the felt toy. Instruction here.

Create a scratching post that can be hung on a wall or doorknob. Detailed instructions.

Source: www.designsponge.com

Fascinating Feathers

Pass a few laces through the ring, tie them into a bun. Attach feathers to the ends of the laces.

Source: ikeahackers.net Here is the detailed instruction.

Source: sofancyblog.com

Rope ping pong ball

Attach the rope to the ping pong ball with a drop of glue. Carefully lay out the rope in a circle, gluing it to the ball.

Source: livesti.com.br

Plastic Toys

Container

If your plastic container is cracked, don’t rush to throw it away. The cat will have a great time in it.

Source: thediscerningcat.com

Surprise container

Make round holes in the lid of the container. Put small items inside, shiny wrappers to arouse the interest of the cat.

Source: theglamcat.blogspot.com

Surprise bottle

Make large holes in the plastic bottle. Fill the bottle with dry food and close it. This food puzzle will keep your pet busy for a long time.

Source: zoopsiholog.jimdo.com

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DIY cat toys: 20 ideas for your cat

If you have a British kitten in your house, then toys for kittens will appear soon, and later toys for cats. Games are one of the important components of the life of a kitten, and an adult cat, so you need to play with a kitten and pay attention to him at least once a day. In this article, we will discuss how to make do-it-yourself cat toys without compromising the family budget from improvised means.

If a kitten or an adult feline animal starts biting its hands, it means that it is bored! Draw conclusions and buy toys for cats, but rather make toys for cats with your own hands at home, because your hands are not a toy.

Contents of the article:

• 20 DIY cat toys ideas:
• 1. Large paper clothing bags
• 2. Ping-pong tennis balls
• 3. Various sizes of cardboard boxes0006
• 4. Sunny bunny
• 5. centimeter ribbon
• 6. Empty coil from threads
• 7. Woods from wine
• 8. Pencils
• 9. Boiler tubes
• 10. Wooden sticks for sushi
• 11 Live butterflies and moths
• 12. Golf balls
• 13. HEXBUG Nano beetle robots and other varieties of nano insects
• 14. Pine cones
• 15. Programs about birds and insects on TV
• 16. rustling developing toys for newborns
• 17. A bag for washing delicate things
• 18. Boxes from Kinder Surprises
• 19. Toy with nylon tights
• 20. Pompons on ropes

Little British kittens, small British kittens, small British kittens like British cats, only accept cat toys when they are new. A couple of days later, no matter how good and expensive toys for kittens are, animals lose interest in them, so it makes no sense to buy expensive toys for cats, it is better to give preference to inexpensive ones, or to make toys for cats with your own hands.

What are ready-made toys for cats, and toys for kittens you can see in any pet store, but what you can come up with toys for kittens with your own hands will be discussed below.

Do not worry, do-it-yourself cat toys do not mean at all that you will need to sew or glue something, no. I will just give a list of proven items on my own British cat, which may well replace expensive cat toys and kitten toys.

So, I am constantly looking for how to make DIY cat toys. For seven years, I have not entertained my British cat Marsik. He has his favorite homemade toys for kittens, and there are such toys for cats with his own hands at home that did not impress him in any way.

20 DIY Cat Toy Ideas:

1. Big Paper Clothes Bags

British kittens and adult cats love to climb into these big rustling bags and just sit around. And if you throw a ball there, you can watch your pet get carried away with the game in earnest. In no case should you use plastic bags, in them the kitten can suffocate. Bags are inexpensive do-it-yourself paper toys for cats that are in every home.

2. Ping-pong tennis balls

To start with, one set of these balls should be enough until they are all under the cabinets. Choose balls made of durable plastic, because thin cats can easily gnaw and swallow fragments.

3. Various sizes of cardboard boxes

make great toys for kittens. You can turn the box over and cut a door or several holes in it. And also to build a two-story house with through doors from several boxes. A toy for a cat out of the box will surely please your animal, and he will appreciate your efforts.

4. Sunny Bunny

Looking for DIY interactive cat toys? Please! The beam of light that is reflected in the mirror can be great fun for your cat. Wait for a sunny day, take a mirror, and let the sunbeams. I’m sure you and your cat will have fun.

5. Measuring tape

My cat loves this simple and unpretentious game, and when I take out the measuring tape, he immediately starts hunting. As you can see, a great way to make a toy for a cat from improvised means.

6. Empty spool of thread

If you sew, there are probably many empty spools of thread around the house. You can’t give a cat a spool of thread, because. the animal can eat thread. And empty coils of a cat are happy to drive around the house. It turns out inexpensive and simple toys for kittens with their own hands at home.

7. Wooden corks for wine

Such corks are quite light and large, animals cannot swallow them, but they chew them with pleasure and throw them up.

8. Pencils

Buy a set of regular pencils and toss your kitten to chase them. Cats love to play with crayons, so don’t be surprised if they bring a crayon to your feet in their teeth. They also like to chew on them, so break the lead and make sure the pencils aren’t sharp. If you have children in the house, then this stuff is in bulk in the house, and you don’t have to buy special pencils.

9. Boiler pipes

My cat just loves to play with boiler pipes, and I buy them especially for him. If you don’t know what kind of toy to make for a kitten with your own hands, feel free to buy cocktail sticks, both kittens and adult cats like them.

10. Wooden sticks for sushi

One of my Marsik’s favorite pastimes. I specially keep a few of these sticks in stock in my bedside table.

11. Live butterflies and moths

My British cat’s favorite pastime is chasing live butterflies and moths. They rarely fly into our apartment, so sometimes I catch them for Marsik on purpose. These are the best do-it-yourself interactive toys for cats

12. Golf balls

Yes, yes, there are such exotic things in our house. The cat really likes these golf balls – they are quite heavy, roll slowly, and the cat chases them around the parquet with pleasure.

13. Robot bugs HEXBUG Nano and other varieties of nano insects

Mega cool interactive cat toy that makes the cat get up from the couch and play hunter. I bought on Aliexpress – it’s cheaper there, and shipping is free. These beetles are battery operated (like clocks) and can be changed when they run out. Robots move chaotically, turning in the other direction after colliding with obstacles. If the cat turns them over on their back, they themselves turn over to their original position, and crawl further.

14. Pine cones

Great idea for DIY cat toys made from natural materials. We have a couple of small cedar cones, and Marsik plays with them from time to time, nibbles on the cones, and picks them off the Christmas tree with even greater pleasure.

15. Programs about birds and insects on TV

Better yet, programs about cats or rodents. Not quite, of course, toys for cats with their own hands, but entertainment for cats is very worthwhile. My cat enjoys watching such programs on the Discovery and Animal Planet channels.

16. Rustling educational toys for newborns

Do not rush to get rid of different educational toys for the smallest babies. My cat enjoys playing with different children’s balls, rustling fabric books, and other toys of my daughter. As you can see, an interesting do-it-yourself toy for a cat can quite unexpectedly end up in the house if there are small children.

17. Washing bag for delicates

An interesting do-it-yourself cat toy. The most common mesh laundry bag is one of my cat’s favorite toys. He likes to toss this bag, and of course, gnaw and tear it apart.

18. Boxes from Kinder Surprises

Put inside a little cereal, dry beans or peas, a piece of catnip and give it to the cat to be torn to pieces. You will get a great interactive toy for cats with your own hands.

19. DIY toys from nylon tights

In every house there are unsuitable nylon tights, so why not make soft toys for the cat with your own hands in the form of balls or knots.

20. Pompoms with strings

The simplest do-it-yourself soft toys for kittens at home. It is most convenient to make such soft toys for kittens with your own hands from felt, or thick yarn.

It’s not enough to make or invent DIY cat toys at home. You also need to interest the cat and organize a game with toys. Maybe you will be more lucky if these are do-it-yourself interactive toys for cats, and then the cat will allow you to lie quietly on the couch while he plays the hunter.

As you can see, there are many ideas on how to make DIY cat toys. Such a difficult task as do-it-yourself toys for cats is a very doable task, most importantly, friends, experiment, and your cat will thank you with playfulness, affection and love.

Friends, it’s very interesting, what kind of toys do you make for cats with your own hands? I look forward to your comments on the article!

How to make toys for cats with your own hands (50 photos): ideas, interactive, soft, mouse

A great way to keep your pet entertained is with a DIY cat toy. You can make it from almost everything that is currently at hand. This will be not only an active game for a small pet, but also a developmental activity, because you need to train in agility and speed at any time of the day and at any age. The easiest way is to make a mouse for a cat, but there are many more options available.

A great way to keep your pet entertained is with a DIY cat toy

Contents

• 1 Cat’s 10 Favorite Toys (Video)
• 2 Simple DIY Cat Toys
• 3 Making a DIY Cat Toy (Video)
• 4 Intricate DIY Cat Toys

10 most favorite toys for cats (video)

Simple DIY toys for a cat

Cats and cats, and especially small kittens, need outdoor games just like food, water and caress of the owner. Many of them remain interested in hunting even if they are at home and do not walk on the street. At any age, pets will gladly catch impromptu prey, and if it is not given into the paws, then the excitement only increases.

Try to please your pet and make a toy, he will accept it with pleasure and gratitude. Manufacturing ideas may vary.

The easiest way to entertain a cat is to throw a crumpled piece of ordinary paper on the floor, an impromptu mouse will come out. It can be written on or even torn, you need to tightly crumple it into a kind of ball and allow the animal to catch up with the toy. Cats can even drive such a ball around the apartment for some time, and if it gets, for example, under a closet, they will take a long time and stubbornly to extract it from there.

You can make an interesting cat toy out of an ordinary cardboard box if you glue a few pieces and make holes in them for the pet to move. She can even perceive it as her house.

Cats and cats, and especially small kittens, need outdoor games just like food, water and caress of the owner rolling on the floor and does not pose a health risk to the animal – these are great toys for him.

Most cats are as interested in newspapers as they are in boxes and bags. A print edition that accidentally ends up on the floor immediately turns into an entertaining toy. The kitten hides under it, jumps out of hiding on all those passing by and crumple it with its paws.

Sometimes pets watch TV more enthusiastically than people, especially if they show something like a ticker. They are also attracted by moving small elements on the computer screen.

DIY stuffed cat toy is a more traditional and easy option. The method of making it is simple: sew a small figurine from any fabric with filler and string.

Making a cat toy with your own hands (video)

Complex DIY cat toys

Making an interactive cat toy with your own hands can be quite simple, and does not require significant material and time costs. As a result, you will get a full-fledged interesting labyrinth for cats. If you know how to handle a drill, then repeat the same for a pet.

This requires water angles. They need to be connected and holes drilled on top, in size they should be such that a cat’s paw fits there. A ball is launched inside, and then it remains only to watch how the do-it-yourself labyrinth becomes a favorite place to play.

DIY soft toy is a more traditional and lighter option

A very easy toy to make from a container in which clean shoe covers were kept. It is necessary to remove the cap from it, make a hole in it and fasten the thread by tying a knot in the inside. Put a small ball or something ringing inside the container. The cat will be happy to catch prey.

The laser flashlight is a favorite entertainment for all cats and kittens without exception. You can’t make it, but you need to buy it. On sunny days, it is successfully replaced by a sunbeam, which is caught with an ordinary small mirror.

In order to make a soft toy from a ball and other items, you will need:

• food foil;
• small box;
• fish oil capsules;
• 2 caps;
• ball of yarn;
• knitted toy (the smaller the better).

The capsules should be placed in the box so that they rattle and attract the pet’s attention. He will be able to drive her around the apartment.

Next, wrap the ball and the toy with foil, remembering to leave long tails (it must be sewn to the toy). Make it as tight as possible. The cat will hunt for threads.

We make holes in the lids, thread the thread, fasten it so that we get a round box. Inside you can put a piece of goodies. The cat’s scent will not let you down, and the lids will become a welcome prey.

It’s much easier to create fun for cats than to make your own dog toys. Small kittens and adult cats are more inclined to hunt for impromptu prey than to gnaw on it.

How to make a cat toy with your own hands?

It’s no secret that cats love to play, but at the same time they are very picky in their choice of entertainment. And since your pet can get bored very quickly, you will need to add variety to his leisure time from time to time to keep it interesting and exciting. Want to keep your furry friend interested? Try to make these simple and creative cat toys with your own hands:

Ghost

Your kitty will love chasing this magical creature – and not just on Halloween. It can also double as a cat pillow!

What you need:

• Cotton T-shirt.
• Thin ribbon 22-25 cm long.
• Metal bell.
• Scissors.
• Black marker.

What to do:

Cut out two squares from the T-shirt – 12×12 cm and 6×6 cm. Place a small metal bell in the middle of the smaller square to create an attention-grabbing noise, and roll it into a ball. Place this ball in the middle of the large square and wrap the fabric around it. Tie the ribbon tightly around the bottom of the balloon to make a ghost head.

For the safety of the animal, cut the tape close to the ghost’s neck so that the cat does not chew or swallow it. Draw a scary face for your ghost and it’s done! When the fabric begins to fray and the ribbon begins to untie, simply make a new ghost (if the toy has become unusable, then the cat definitely likes it).

Fun caps

Your furry friend will definitely love the easy movement of this toy. The cap toy glides especially well on smooth surfaces such as parquet and tiles. This is a great way to get the cat moving.

What you need:

• Soft plastic lid for food container (yogurt, soft cheese, etc.).
• Two plastic caps from a water bottle, fruit puree bag or similar container (it’s even more fun if the caps are different).
• Scissors.
• Nail or awl (for punching holes).

What to do:

First, cut off the hem of the plastic cover and cut out one strip in the shape of a rod from its center. The middle of the strip should be approximately 7-8 cm long and 3 mm wide. The ends of the rod should be approximately 1-1.5 cm wide.

Then carefully poke a hole in each bottle cap using a nail or awl. Gently fold the ends of the plastic rod to fit each end into the hole in one of the caps. Once you have threaded each end through the caps, unfold the ends of the rod and secure the caps in place. The toy is ready! Ahead of you is waiting for more than one hour of joyful rolling of this fun structure on the floor.

Satellite

Like the 1950s Earth satellite for which this toy is named, our “satellite” is out of this world. If you want to make homemade cat toys and pay homage to outer space, this idea is for you.

What you need:

• Small plastic food container lid.
• Thin cardboard food box (for cereals, pasta).
• Scotch.
• Scissors.
• Stationery knife.

What to do:

Cut off the edge of the plastic lid, then carefully cut out six strips, each about 3 mm wide and 5-8 cm long, depending on the size of the lid.

Cut one cardboard strip from the box, 5 cm wide and 7-8 cm long. Fold the resulting rectangle lengthwise into five equal segments, and then unfold. Then fold the top and bottom of the rectangle widthwise so that they meet in the middle and unfold (these will be the sides of the satellite box). Use a utility knife to make slits in the vertical fold lines just up to the horizontal line, which will form the flaps at the top and bottom of the rectangle. Make two parallel cuts, about the width of the plastic strips you cut, in the middle of each of the five segments and on the top and bottom flaps of one of the end sections.

Pass each of the plastic strips through the pair of slots in the center of the segments. Secure the back of each loop with tape. Then fold the cardboard rectangle into a tiny box, with the ends of the plastic strips sticking out of each side of the box. You can leave the length of the strips as is or cut them off, depending on what your pet likes. These strips are durable and safe for your cat to play with, and with one movement of the paw, she will be able to toss the toy in a variety of directions. Now you have your own companion.

As with any cat toy, check your creations periodically to make sure your cat hasn’t ripped off pieces that could get in their airways. If you notice any loose threads or dangling pieces of material, it’s best to take the toy away from the kitten so it can be repaired or replaced entirely. All in all, making homemade cat toys is a fun way to spice up your friendship with your four-legged buddy and keep him out of boredom!

Photo source: Christine O’Brien

Contributor Bio

Christine O’Brien

Christine O’Brien is a writer, mother and owner of two Russian Blue mestizos. She writes not only about pets, but also about raising children. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter @brovelliobrien.

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Cats are one of the most popular pets, partly because they are easy to care for. Once you’ve fed your cat and cleaned her litter box, you can relax, but only until she gets bored. Playing games for indoor cats is very good for their health and will help divert their attention from your upholstered furniture. However, buying cat toys can be expensive, as the cat may not show any interest in them at all and the money will be wasted.

If you have a cat or cat in your house that often ruins your furniture, don’t despair! We will tell you how to make a do-it-yourself cat toy using handmade materials. Your child can help you, then this activity will become much more fun.

ring ball | tubule with feathers | treat mink

1. DIY cat toy: ball of rings

To make this fun DIY cat toy, all you need is a used Zewa Deluxe toilet roll core, scissors and non-toxic paint. We recommend entrusting work with scissors only to adults, and give children the opportunity to paint and assemble the toy.

What you might need

• Zewa Deluxe toilet paper roll sleeve
• Scissors
• Glue
• Dye
• tassel
• stapler
1. Take the sleeve and cut it into 8 equal rings about 1 cm wide.
2. Make a cut on each ring and unfold them. Glue the edges of the 2 rings together with glue to create a large ring. Repeat the same to make 3 more rings and leave them to dry.
3. Paint each ring a different color with non-toxic paint and leave to dry.
4. Place the rings one inside the other and twist them until the distances between them are the same and they form a ball. To prevent the rings from moving, staple them at the intersections at the bottom and top.

On their own, these balls are great for indoor cats who like to play alone. If you want to make this toy even more attractive, attach some bells inside the ball.

The Zewa Deluxe Toilet Paper Roll is made from the same materials as regular paper, so if your cat gets bored with his toy (or rips it to shreds), it can be easily flushed down the toilet or added to the compost. Simple and convenient.

2. DIY cat toys: feather tube

Make these beautiful DIY cat toys to make your pets happy. All you need is a Zewa Premium paper towel roll, a few colorful feathers, and a cocktail straw. We encourage parents to take the job of making holes in the paper towel roll core.

What you might need

• Zewa Premium paper towel roll core
• Pencil
• metal screwdriver
• Straws for cocktails
• Scissors
• feathers
1. On the paper towel core, mark with a pencil where you want to make holes.
2. Take a Phillips screwdriver and carefully poke through the bushing at the marked points so that the holes are on opposite sides. Make some of the holes bigger so that the tubes pass through them freely.
3. Cut the tubes with scissors into 15 cm pieces. Insert them into the large holes in the sleeve.
4. Insert the lugs into the remaining holes of the bushing.

Cat hair can sometimes make you sneeze, especially if you have allergies. Put a box of Zewa Deluxe tissues in the places where you often visit the house so that they are always at hand

3. How to turn an empty tissue box into a treat hole

If you want to make great DIY cat toys and you have a lot of toilet paper rolls and an empty Zewa Deluxe tissue box , then you can make a mink for your pet’s treats. We encourage parents to work with scissors and glue while the child does the painting and assembly.

What you might need

• Zewa Deluxe Empty Tissue Box
• Scissors
• Wrapping
• Glue
• Zewa Deluxe toilet paper rolls
• non-toxic paint
• tassel
• Glue gun
1. Take your scissors and carefully cut off the front of the tissue box.
2. Carefully line the sides and base of the tissue box with wrapping paper.
3. Paint toilet paper rolls with non-toxic paint and let dry.
4. Place the bushings in the box, stacking them one on top of the other to fill the entire space. Secure them carefully with a glue gun. When you’re done, put the treats in the box for your beloved cat.

Cats love anything that floats in the air, so use a piece of tissue paper as a toy for your cat. This activity will entertain them for a long time and, fortunately, Zewa Deluxe paper handkerchiefs are strong enough that they will not tear immediately.

You’re already very busy taking care of your children and pets, so get the whole family involved in cleaning up after you’ve made a cat toy together.

Decorate your cat toys with your own hands

Be careful with the use of paint when making your own cat toys – remember that your pets may want to chew on them at some point. So if you want to make your cat toy attractive and safe, use non-toxic paper and paint.

These simple yet stylish DIY cat toys keep your furniture safe from their claws. Now that you know how to make DIY cat toys, why not try making them with the whole family?

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Do-it-yourself toys for cats and kittens

The decision to have a pet means that you are ready to take on the whole burden of responsibility, because this is not a toy, but a living creature that can feel, think, be happy and sad. With the advent of a small kitten in the house, everything around changes and, of course, you must be prepared for these changes and for any possible surprises.

In addition to the standard needs of food or drink, the animal will need your attention. If the pet is full and feels good, but at the same time it starts to be naughty (it can scratch the wallpaper, climb onto the carpet or curtains, even scratch or bite), it means that he is bored and wants to play. This is especially true for the period of growth of a kitten and its getting used to a new habitat. The best way to keep your baby busy is to provide him with toys.

Games as the main component of a healthy life of a pet

When a kitten still lives with a cat and its small relatives, their games are an imitation of a fight or a hunt, being designed to develop in animals the basic skills that are vital for them: dexterity, speed of movement, intelligence , the ability to wait and catch prey, etc.

When choosing toys, you should focus on this very moment. Also, the game is necessary for the cat in order to get some degree of physical activity (especially if the animal lives only at your house and does not go out), plus – for fun.

Toys often cost a lot in pet stores, and besides, a cat can soon get bored with them and want new things. To save money and constantly delight your beloved pet with new and new games, you just need to make toys for cats with your own hands.

In fact, your pet doesn’t care how much this or that little thing costs – the main thing is that it should be interesting and fun with it. In addition, when making homemade toys for a kitten, you will be sure of the naturalness and safety of the materials used.

Getting Started

There are a lot of options for making all kinds of toys for kittens with your own hands. Firstly, you can still look through the assortment of what pet stores offer in order to navigate, perhaps the products on sale will inspire you to create home-made analogues.

Secondly, rely on your own imagination and creativity: watch the kitten – with what and how he likes to play, what he loves most, and based on this try to make him a toy.

Trust that any means at hand will do.

1. Everyone knows that cats love to play with rustling candy wrappers, paper scraps and, of course, boxes. If you cut improvised doors and a window in a cardboard box, you can get a small cozy shelter for a kitten, where he will be happy to hide and carry his “treasures”. You can make several large holes in the lid or bottom of the box (select a height such that the cat can stand on its hind legs inside and look out of the box, and, if desired, get out of it). He will be amused by the process of climbing back and forth. And if you take the lid or the bottom of the box and bend the corners so as to make the bottom convex in the center, and throw a ping-pong ball or a tennis ball there, then the kitten will have a very interesting activity in catching the elusive ball-ball that will constantly roll down to the center.
2. The next type of toy can be made both from the same cardboard box and from plywood (a more complex and time-consuming option). In addition to materials, you will also need tools: a drill, a jigsaw, a hammer, a wood drill. First you need to cut four walls from plywood (you can take the following dimensions: the length of two walls is 30 cm each, and the other two are 45 cm each, with a width of 7 cm for all). Saw several holes in each of the walls, carefully processing the edges with sandpaper so that there are no sharp corners or roughness anywhere. Glue the walls – you will get a rectangle. Next, you will need to select and make a top cover for it, in which you also make holes in the same way. You can glue the parts or knock them down with nails, or use “button nails” – in a word, do it at your discretion. Cover the toy with varnish and put a ball, ball or any other trinket inside that the cat will be happy to try to get.
3. Another way to make interesting toys for cats with your own hands is to sew a soft mouse from leftover felt, flannel or faux fur. You can make it according to the pattern, cutting out the details and sewing them together, or simply rely on your abilities. Stuff the mouse with cotton wool or padding polyester and attach it to a string or elastic band. You can make a kind of lever by hanging a toy on a stick so that the cat plays on its own when it wants to.
4. You can complicate your task a little and make a clockwork mouse for your pet. To do this, it is necessary to sheathe or glue the inertial children’s car with fabric parts (the parts must be larger than it).
5. Easy to make and soft rattle balls. Just pick up a few small balls or bells (you can pull them out of baby rattles) and sew them tightly into a soft padded fabric to form a ball.
6. Attach a small ball or the same fluffy mouse, or even a container from a kinder surprise with some kind of rattle inside, to a homemade fishing rod (rope tied to a stick). You can build for a fishing rod and a toy in the form of a felt bow. To do this, cut a lot of strips of different lengths from the fabric and make a pom-pom out of them. A bunch of multi-colored feathers will do.