20 Amazing Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make Today

Ever wonder what your cat does all day when you're not around? Probably plotting world domination, but mostly, they're likely just bored. Instead of buying expensive store-bought toys, why not try your hand at crafting some easy diy cat toys? It's not only a budget-friendly option, but it’s also a great way to bond with your feline friend. This article is your ultimate guide to creating 20 fantastic toys that will keep your kitty entertained for hours. We'll start with simple toys you can whip up in minutes using common household items, then move on to more creative options for active play, and finally, we will explore puzzle toys and scratchers to challenge your cat's mind and body. Get ready to unleash your inner crafter, and let's make some purrfectly fun toys together. You'll be amazed at how much joy a simple homemade toy can bring to your furry companion.

Simple DIY Cat Toys Using Household Items

Toilet Paper Roll Fun

Okay, let's start with the easiest of the easy: toilet paper rolls. Seriously, don't throw them away! Cats go nuts for these cardboard tubes. You can leave them as is, or get a bit crafty. Try cutting some fringes at each end, making it look like a little octopus. Or, stuff a few small treats inside, fold the ends, and watch your cat bat it around trying to get to the goodies. It's like a mini-puzzle that costs absolutely nothing. I once watched my cat spend a solid 20 minutes chasing a plain toilet paper roll around, it was better than any TV show.

Another quick idea is to cut a few holes in the side of the roll. The size depends on your cat and the treats you use. But don't make it too easy, or they will lose interest. This adds a bit more of a challenge and keeps them entertained for longer. Remember, safety first. Make sure to remove any staples or tape before giving it to your cat. We don't want any vet visits because of a rogue cardboard tube.

Paper Bag Adventures

Next up, we have the humble paper bag. No, not the plastic kind, those are a no-go. We're talking about the classic brown paper grocery bag. These are fantastic for a couple of reasons. First, they make a fun crinkling sound that cats adore. Second, they provide a great hiding spot, which cats also love. Just lay the bag on its side, and watch your cat go in and out, peeking out and pouncing. It’s like their own little fort.

To make it even more interesting, you can cut out a few different sized holes in the bag. This will allow them to see out and give you a better view of their antics. Make sure to remove the handles, those can be a hazard. I once had a cat get stuck in a handle, it was funny but a bit scary. A simple paper bag can provide hours of entertainment and it's a great way to use something you were going to throw away anyway.

Sock it to 'Em

Last but not least, let's talk about socks! Yes, those lonely socks that have lost their partners can now have a new purpose. Take an old sock, stuff it with some cotton or old fabric scraps, and tie off the end. Boom, you've got a simple, soft toy that your cat will love to wrestle with. You can even add a little catnip inside to make it extra enticing. It's like a little pillow that they can kick and bite without you getting annoyed.

If you're feeling a little more ambitious, you can sew or glue some felt pieces on to create a face or ears. You can even add some ribbons or strings for extra fun. This turns a simple sock into a custom toy. I did a sock snake for my cat, it was a total hit. These toys are easy to make, and you can customize them to your cat's liking. It's a win-win for everyone. Who knew old socks could be so much fun?

Creative DIY Cat Toys for Active Play

Feather Wands: The Classic Teaser

Alright, let's kick it up a notch with some toys that get your cat moving. First up: feather wands. These are super easy to make and cats go absolutely bonkers for them. You don't need anything fancy, just a stick (a dowel rod or even a sturdy twig from your yard will do), some string or yarn, and a few feathers. Tie the string to the end of the stick, and then attach the feathers to the other end of the string. It’s like a magic wand for cats, and you are the wizard. I've seen cats jump, flip, and do all sorts of acrobatics for these. It’s way more entertaining than watching them sleep all day.

The key here is to make it move like a real bird. Don't just wave it around randomly. Try mimicking the way a bird flies, swooping, and darting. The more realistic the movement, the more engaged your cat will be. You can also experiment with different types of feathers and different lengths of string to see what your cat likes best. Sometimes, simple is best. I once used a peacock feather; my cat went nuts, but it was a bit too much for her. Start small, and work your way up. Remember to always supervise your cat when they are playing with a feather wand. We don’t want any feathers ending up in their tummy.

DIY Pom-Pom Frenzy

Next, let's talk pom-poms. These are super easy to make, and they're great for batting and chasing. You can use yarn or even strips of fabric to make a bunch of colorful pom-poms. Just wrap the material around your fingers, tie it in the middle, and cut the loops. You can make them all different sizes and colors. Cats love the texture and the way they bounce. I once made a giant pom-pom ball and my cat spent hours trying to figure out how to conquer it. It was hilarious.

To make them even more fun, you can attach them to a string and create a "pom-pom pendulum." Hang it from a door frame or a high spot and watch your cat try to catch it. You can also hide them around the house and let your cat find them. This makes for a fun little game of hide-and-seek. Just make sure that the pom-poms are securely tied. We don't want any loose pieces that could be a choking hazard. These are great for both solo play and active play with you. It’s a simple way to get your cat moving and having fun.

DIY Cat Puzzle Toys and Scratchers

Cardboard Box Puzzles

Okay, so we've covered the basics, now let's get into some brain-teasing stuff. Cats are smart, you know? They need more than just a dangling feather sometimes. That's where DIY puzzle toys come in. And guess what? You can make them using cardboard boxes. Yes, those Amazon boxes you've been meaning to recycle are about to become your cat's new favorite toy. Take a box, cut some holes in it, and then put some treats or toys inside. It's like a mini-maze for them. They have to figure out how to get to the goodies. I once created a multi-layered box puzzle, and my cat looked like a tiny engineer trying to solve it, it was hilarious.

You can make this as simple or as complex as you want. Start with just one or two holes and then add more as your cat gets the hang of it. You can also use different sized boxes and create tunnels and hideouts for added fun. Just make sure to use a box that is sturdy and won't collapse on your cat. We want fun, not a cardboard cave-in. And remember to remove any tape or staples that could be dangerous. Safety first, always. These cardboard box puzzles are not only fun but also provide great mental stimulation for your cat, which is just as important as physical exercise.

Scratch That Itch: DIY Scratchers

Now, let's talk scratchers. Cats love to scratch, it's their way of marking their territory and keeping their claws healthy. Instead of buying an expensive scratcher, why not make your own? It's surprisingly easy. You can use a piece of wood or even a sturdy cardboard box as the base. Then, wrap it with sisal rope or carpet scraps. Secure it tightly with glue or staples, and voila! You have a custom-made scratcher. I made one using an old piece of wood and some rope. My cat loves it more than any store bought one. It saves my furniture from her claws, and it makes her happy, it's a win-win.

You can get creative with the design too. Make a scratching post, a scratching board, or even a scratching ramp. You can also add some dangling toys or catnip to make it even more appealing. Just make sure to use materials that are safe for your cat to scratch. Avoid anything with loose threads or small parts that they could swallow. These DIY scratchers are a great way to keep your cat entertained and healthy, while also saving your couch from becoming a scratching victim. Remember, a happy cat means a happy home.