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How to Keep Your Cat Entertained: 10 DIY Cat Toys for Indoor Playtime
Are you looking for ways to keep your indoor cat entertained and engaged? We understand the importance of providing mental stimulation and playtime for our feline friends.
In this article, we will share 10 DIY cat toys that are not only fun and engaging but also easy to make with simple household items. Whether your cat loves chasing, pouncing, or batting, these toys will keep them entertained for hours. Plus, they provide an opportunity for you to bond with your furry companion.
Our Top 10 DIY Cat Toys
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Feather Wand
What You’ll Need:
- A long stick or dowel rod
- Strong string or fishing line
- One or more feathers
- Scissors
- Optional: glue or duct tape for reinforcement
How to Make It:
- Cut a piece of string to your desired length (about 1-2 feet is a good start).
- Tie one end of the string securely to the stick. If needed, reinforce the knot with glue or duct tape.
- Attach the feather to the other end of the string. You can either tie it directly or use a small hook.
- Optional: Add multiple feathers or tie knots along the string for additional interest.
- Test the wand to ensure everything is securely attached before playing with your cat.
Cardboard Box Maze
What You’ll Need:
- One or more large cardboard boxes
- A box cutter or scissors
- Optional: non-toxic markers or paint for decoration
How to Make It:
- Cut holes of varying sizes on different sides of the box to create entrances, exits, and windows.
- If using multiple boxes, connect them with cut-out doorways to form a larger maze.
- Decorate the outside with markers or paint for a fun look (ensure any materials used are safe for cats).
- Place treats or small toys in various parts of the maze to entice exploration.
Toilet Paper Roll Treat Dispenser
What You’ll Need:
- Empty toilet paper rolls
- Your cat’s favorite treats
- Scissors
How to Make It:
- Cut small holes in the roll, big enough for treats to fall through but small enough to make it challenging.
- Fold one end of the roll to close it.
- Fill the roll with treats.
- Fold the other end to close the roll.
- Show it to your cat and let them figure out how to get the treats out.
Ping Pong Ball Track
What You’ll Need:
- PVC pipes or cardboard tubes
- Ping pong balls
- Strong tape (if using cardboard tubes)
- Saw (if using PVC pipes)
How to Make It:
- If using PVC pipes, cut them into desired lengths.
- Arrange the tubes in a track layout.
- Use tape to connect cardboard tubes or PVC pipe joints if needed.
- Place ping pong balls inside the track.
- Encourage your cat to bat the balls around the track.
Sock Catnip Toy
What You’ll Need:
- An old sock
- Catnip
- String or ribbon (for tying)
How to Make It:
- Fill the toe part of the sock with a generous amount of catnip.
- Tie a knot close to the filled area, securing the catnip inside.
- Make sure the knot is tight so your cat can’t easily open it.
- Offer the toy to your cat and watch them enjoy.
Paper Bag Hideout
What You’ll Need:
- Large paper bags
- Optional: non-toxic markers or stickers for decoration
How to Make It:
- Open the paper bag and place it on its side on the floor.
- Optionally, decorate the bag with markers or stickers.
- Place a toy or treat inside to encourage your cat to explore.
- Watch as your cat enjoys their new hideout.
Laser Pointer
What You’ll Need:
- A laser pointer
- A physical toy (for the end of the game)
How to Make It:
- Turn on the laser pointer and move the dot around the floor and walls.
- Allow your cat to chase and pounce on the dot.
- Be careful not to shine the laser in your cat’s eyes.
- End the game by allowing your cat to ‘catch’ a physical toy, satisfying their hunting instinct.
Puzzle Feeder
What You’ll Need:
- A small plastic bottle or container
- Cat food or treats
- Knife or scissors
How to Make It:
- Clean the bottle or container thoroughly.
- Cut small holes in it, big enough for the treats to fall out.
- Fill the container with treats or kibble.
- Show your cat how to roll the container to get the treats out.
Crinkle Tunnel
What You’ll Need:
- Crinkly fabric or a pre-made crinkle material
- Duct tape or fabric glue
- Wire or flexible tubing for structure
How to Make It:
- Cut the fabric to the desired length for the tunnel.
- To make the structure, create a tube shape with the wire or tubing and secure it with duct tape, or if using the wire twist it onto itself to secure.
- Insert wire or tubing at both ends of the crinkle fabric to maintain the tunnel shape and secure by folding the fabric over the tubing and securing with fabric glue.
- Encourage your cat to explore the new tunnel.
Felt Mouse Toy
What You’ll Need:
- Felt sheets in various colors
- Scissors
- Catnip
- Needle and thread
- Cotton or synthetic fiberfill
- Optional: small bells or rattle inserts
How to Make It:
- Cut two mouse-shaped pieces from the felt. You can create a simple template or draw freehand.
- Sew the two pieces together along the edges, leaving a small opening for stuffing.
- Mix some fiberfill with catnip and stuff the mouse. If you want, add a small bell or rattle insert for extra stimulation.
- Sew the opening closed, ensuring it’s secure so your cat can’t easily open it.
- Introduce the toy to your cat and watch them enjoy their new felt mouse.
