As cat parents, we all want to give our beloved feline friends the best care possible. However, spoiling our cats with store-bought toys can become quite expensive in the long run. Fortunately, there are many ways to make your own DIY cat toys at home using objects you likely already have on hand.
In this post, we will provide some ideas for DIY cat toys that you can create with simple household items. Whether you're looking to save money or just have fun crafting with your cat, these toys are sure to provide your furry friend with endless entertainment.
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Why DIY Cat Toys?
If you're looking for ways to keep your cat entertained without breaking the bank, making your own DIY cat toys is an excellent option. Not only are these toys usually much cheaper than store-bought options, but they can also be customized to suit your cat's specific interests and preferences.
Some of the benefits of playtime with your cat:
Reduced stress: cats instinctively want to hide, seek, and hunt
Exercise and activity: Just like humans, cats need to be active. Having some fun and new toys on hand can help keep your cat busy.
Bonding with your cat: Crafting DIY cat toys can be a fun way to bond with your cat and spend quality time together.
Family-friendly: These can be great activities for the whole family to do together! Fun for all ages!
DIY Cat Toy Ideas
Here are some simple ideas for DIY cat toys that you can make with items you probably already have at home! We will give some modifications for some fun fall themes!
1. Ping Pong Ball and Cardboard Tube Toy
This is a simple yet effective DIY cat toy that can be enjoyed by cats of all ages. To make this toy, all you need is a ping pong ball and a cardboard tube, such as an empty paper towel roll. Use Halloween eyeballs or bouncy balls for a fall themed twist!
What You'll Need:
Paper towel roll
Ping Pong balls, bouncy balls, or any similar size balls (please ensure they are not too small and your cat can't swallow it, as it can be a choking hazard)- we used these fun Halloween themed ones!
Steps:
Cut small pieces in the cardboard tube 2-3 inches in length using a box cutter or scissors
Place the ping pong ball inside one of the cardboard tubes
Optional: cover one or both sides of the cardboard tube securely, then gently shake it to make the ping pong ball move around inside. If you opt to skip this step, you can let the ball out and let your cat chase it across the floor!
Allow your cat to play with the toy and chase the ping pong ball as it moves around inside the tube or rolls across the floor!
2. Sock Catnip Toy
This DIY cat toy is a great option for cats who love catnip. All you need is a sock and some catnip. Use Halloween tube socks for a fall themed toy!
What You'll Need:
Pair of socks- We used these Halloween themed socks
Loose catnip- We love this brand!
Steps:
Fill the toe of the sock with catnip.
Tie a knot at the end of the sock to seal in the catnip.
Allow your cat to play with the sock, either tossing it around or cuddling up to it to enjoy the scent of the catnip.
When the catnip loses its potency, you can replace it with fresh catnip and tie another knot at the end of the sock.
3. Paper Towel Roll Treat Dispenser
This is a fun DIY cat toy that doubles as a treat dispenser. All you need is a paper towel roll, some scissors, and some small treats (such as kibble).
What You'll Need:
Paper Towel Roll
Treats- my girls love Greenies!!
Steps:
Cut the paper towel roll into three equal-sized pieces.
Use a hole punch, box cutter, or scissors to create small holes in the sides of each piece.
On one side of the tube, push the sides of the tube inward to close off the tube.
Fill one of the pieces with treats, then place the other two pieces on either side of it to create a long tube.
Close off the other side of the tube
Allow your cat to play with the toy and try to get the treats out by pawing at the holes.
Please always use supervision with these and any other cat toys. Please refrain from using small pieces when making these DIY cat toys.
HAVE FUN!
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