×

10 DIY Cat Toys You Can Make At Home


10 DIY Cat Toys You Can Make At Home


DIY Toys to Keep Your Cat Entertained

Cats are masters of making anything fun, so why spend a fortune on fancy toys they don't even like? With a little creativity, everyday items can become the ultimate source of entertainment for hours on end. There's nothing worse than spending a fortune on toys your cat won't even look at. It's time to explore clever and simple DIY toy ideas to keep your cat happy, active, and mentally sharp—no lavish spending required!

gray kitten sitting on floorKim Davies on Unsplash

1. Cardboard Box Fort

Cats can’t resist the allure of a good cardboard box—it’s like a little slice of heaven for them. You can turn an ordinary box into their dream hangout by cutting entry holes. These simple creations mimic the cozy, enclosed spaces cats love for both safety and endless playtime.

1.jpgArina Krasnikova on Pexels

2. Feather Wand

A stick, string, and a feather can create an exciting chase toy for your pet. These natural hunters are hardwired to pounce, and the fluttering feather perfectly mimics prey. Simply wave it around, and your cat's instincts will take over. Plus, it's a great way to bond through playtime.

2.jpgDavid Yu on Pexels

3. Sock and Rice Noisemaker

Keep your cat entertained with this simple yet captivating DIY toy. Fill an old sock with rice or dried beans, tie it securely, and watch the magic happen. The jiggly, noisy movement is irresistible to curious cats, drawing them in for hours of pouncing and play. It’s a low-cost way to keep their paws busy and their minds sharp! 

white rice grains on brown wooden tablePierre Bamin on Unsplash

Advertisement

4. Toilet Paper Roll Puzzle

Keeping kitties entertained can be as easy as rethinking your recycling. Watch your kitty’s inner problem-solver come to life by lining up empty toilet paper rolls in a small box and dropping a few treats inside. This simple trick keeps them curious and thoroughly entertained. 

File:Cats attacking toilet paper.jpgOriginal photo by Dan4th, https://www.flickr.com/photos/dan4th/. Cropped and brightened by Melchoir on Wikimedia

5. T-Shirt Tent

Cats can’t resist a snug, cozy hideaway, and this DIY tent is just the thing to win their hearts. With an old t-shirt, two wire hangers, and a sturdy frame, you can create the perfect little retreat. Add a soft blanket or their favorite toy inside to make it even more inviting. 

a cat laying on top of a bed under a tentCord Allman on Unsplash

6. Crinkle Paper Ball

Wrinkled paper is pure magic for cats, combining texture and sound they find irresistible. Simply crumple some craft paper into a ball and watch your feline spring into action, chasing and batting it around. The unpredictable movement and satisfying crinkle make it endlessly entertaining—and its easier to create! 

6.jpgLucas Andrade on Pexels

7. Bottle Cap Chaser

What's unpredictable and endlessly entertaining for your cat? A simple bottle cap! Its erratic rolls and unpredictable slides make it an irresistible toy that fuels your cat’s curiosity and playful energy. This everyday item provides hours of joy, all without costing a thing.

7.jpgKrizjohn Rosales on Pexels

8. Catnip Sock Toy

Sprinkle catnip into a sock, tie it tightly, and you've created a toy that's both rousing and comforting. These purr-machines are attracted to the aroma of catnip, and this DIY creation is perfect for pouncing or snuggling. This playful yet soothing toy is sure to become your cat’s new obsession. 

white long haired small sized dog lying on white and black textileValeriia Miller on Unsplash

9. Paper Bag Maze

Excitement truly comes in layers—literally. Start by placing paper bags on the floor with both ends open and slipping in a few treats or toys. As your cat dives into the mystery, the enticing rustling sound will spark their natural instincts. Before long, every moment becomes an adventure they can’t resist.

a brown paper bag sitting on top of a marble counterBrando Makes Branding on Unsplash

Advertisement

10. Yarn Pom-Pom

Make a soft, fluffy pom-pom out of yarn, and let the fun begin. Its lightweight design makes it perfect for skittering across floors, keeping your cat captivated. Opt for thick yarn to avoid tangling, and enjoy watching your furry friend pounce, chase, and flip their new favorite toy.

three yarns on tableTara Evans on Unsplash