{"id":63968,"date":"2025-01-23T11:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-01-23T16:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/?p=63968"},"modified":"2025-01-23T08:56:03","modified_gmt":"2025-01-23T13:56:03","slug":"diy-cat-toys-you-can-make-at-home","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/diy-cat-toys-you-can-make-at-home\/","title":{"rendered":"9 Fun and Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make at Home Right Now"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-5::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-5{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-6::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-6{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-7::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-7{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-8::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-8{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-9::before{padding-top:100%; }img#mv-trellis-img-9{display:block;}<\/style>\n<p>Cats are natural hunters and playful explorers, and nothing gets them more excited than a fun toy to chase, bat, or pounce on. But let&rsquo;s face it&mdash;store-bought toys can be pricey, and many end up ignored in favor of a cardboard box or a crumpled piece of paper.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The good news? You don&rsquo;t need to spend a fortune to keep your feline entertained. With just a little creativity and everyday items you likely already have lying around, you can craft an array of exciting DIY cat toys that are budget-friendly and eco-conscious.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From sock mice to cardboard castles, these simple projects will spark your cat&rsquo;s curiosity and bring hours of joy to your home. Plus, making these toys is a fun way to repurpose items that might otherwise go to waste.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ready to get crafty and treat your furry friend to some homemade fun?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Sock and String Mouse<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/9-Fun-and-Easy-DIY-Cat-Toys-You-Can-Make-at-Home-Right-Now-5.jpeg\" alt=\"9 Fun and Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make at Home Right Now\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" title=\"9 Fun and Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make at Home Right Now\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20300%20300'%3E%3Crect%20width='300'%20height='300'%20style='fill:%23e3e3e3'\/%3E%3C\/svg%3E\" alt=\"9 Fun and Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make at Home Right Now\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" title=\"9 Fun and Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make at Home Right Now\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-1\" loading=\"eager\" data-src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/9-Fun-and-Easy-DIY-Cat-Toys-You-Can-Make-at-Home-Right-Now-5.jpeg\" class=\"eager-load\" data-svg=\"1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/billjacksons\/p\/C5vnnUyLPZa\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; billjacksons<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Transform an old sock into a delightful mouse-like toy that will captivate your cat&rsquo;s attention. Begin by filling the sock with crumpled newspaper or cotton to give it a plump shape. Once filled, securely tie off the open end with string, making sure it&rsquo;s tight enough to hold the stuffing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Next, fashion whiskers by threading a few pieces of string through the fabric near one end of the sock. These will flutter and entice your cat to swat and chase. To complete the look, attach a longer piece of string at the other end as a tail.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This simple yet effective toy will quickly become a favorite. Its soft texture and enticing shape mimic prey, encouraging playful pouncing and batting. Best of all, it&rsquo;s a great way to upcycle old socks, giving them a second life while entertaining your feline friend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Cardboard Box Castle<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Cardboard-Box-Castle-1.jpeg\" alt=\"Cardboard Box Castle\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Cardboard-Box-Castle-1.jpeg\" alt=\"Cardboard Box Castle\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-2\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/rexiecat\/p\/DAyLS5CpWT5\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; rexiecat<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Cats love exploring new environments, and a cardboard box castle is the perfect playground. Start by collecting several sturdy boxes of various sizes. Arrange them in a tower or castle-like structure, using tape to secure them together if needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cut out windows and doors in different shapes and sizes, allowing your cat to peek and pounce through the openings. This structure offers a thrilling adventure, stimulating their natural curiosity and hunting instincts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Not only is this a fun and engaging toy for your cat, but it&rsquo;s also an excellent way to recycle boxes that may be lying around your house. Customize the castle with colored paper or fabric scraps to make it even more appealing. Your cat will enjoy hours of fun, climbing and surveying their kingdom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Feather Wand<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/9-Fun-and-Easy-DIY-Cat-Toys-You-Can-Make-at-Home-Right-Now-6.jpeg\" alt=\"9 Fun and Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make at Home Right Now\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" title=\"9 Fun and Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make at Home Right Now\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/9-Fun-and-Easy-DIY-Cat-Toys-You-Can-Make-at-Home-Right-Now-6.jpeg\" alt=\"9 Fun and Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make at Home Right Now\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" title=\"9 Fun and Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make at Home Right Now\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-3\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/hart90rescue\/p\/C7PNOYwRa0j\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; hart90rescue<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>A feather wand is a classic toy that never fails to engage cats. To create your own, you&rsquo;ll need a sturdy stick or dowel, some string, and vibrant feathers. Begin by securely tying the string to the end of the stick, leaving enough length for the feathers to dangle enticingly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Attach several colorful feathers to the free end of the string, ensuring they&rsquo;re securely fastened. The movement of the feathers mimics prey, sparking your cat&rsquo;s instinctual desire to hunt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Wave the wand around to encourage your cat to jump, chase, and pounce. This interactive play not only provides essential exercise but also strengthens the bond between you and your pet. Whether indoors or in the garden, this simple creation will become a beloved part of your cat&rsquo;s play routine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Toilet Paper Roll Puzzle<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Toilet-Paper-Roll-Puzzle-1.jpeg\" alt=\"Toilet Paper Roll Puzzle\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Toilet-Paper-Roll-Puzzle-1.jpeg\" alt=\"Toilet Paper Roll Puzzle\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-4\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/boblog111\/p\/C52KlRjL6Gy\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; boblog111<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Turn empty toilet paper rolls into a stimulating puzzle toy that challenges your cat&rsquo;s problem-solving skills. Arrange several rolls together and glue them into a pyramid shape. Ensure that the holes are accessible to your cat&rsquo;s inquisitive paws.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once assembled, place small treats or dry kibble inside some of the rolls. Your cat will have to figure out how to retrieve the tasty rewards, engaging their brain and providing mental stimulation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This puzzle is perfect for keeping your cat entertained and occupied, especially when you&rsquo;re busy. It&rsquo;s a fun, inexpensive way to enrich their environment and encourage natural hunting behaviors. Plus, it&rsquo;s an eco-friendly way to recycle toilet paper rolls into something useful and entertaining.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Crinkle Ball Surprise<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/9-Fun-and-Easy-DIY-Cat-Toys-You-Can-Make-at-Home-Right-Now-7.jpeg\" alt=\"9 Fun and Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make at Home Right Now\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" title=\"9 Fun and Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make at Home Right Now\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/9-Fun-and-Easy-DIY-Cat-Toys-You-Can-Make-at-Home-Right-Now-7.jpeg\" alt=\"9 Fun and Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make at Home Right Now\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" title=\"9 Fun and Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make at Home Right Now\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-5\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=gOQB0iDXsS4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; YouTube<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Create a crinkle ball that will fascinate your cat with its intriguing sound and texture. Begin by tearing off a piece of aluminum foil, roughly the size of a small napkin. Gently crumple the foil into a ball, ensuring it&rsquo;s compact enough for your cat to bat around.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The crinkling noise produced by the foil will capture your cat&rsquo;s attention, encouraging active play. Consider making several crinkle balls to scatter around your home, providing endless entertainment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This simple toy is perfect for both kittens and adult cats, as it mimics the sounds of small prey scurrying through leaves. Lightweight and easy to bat, it offers a satisfying play experience. Just be sure to supervise playtime and replace the ball if it becomes too worn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Bottle Cap Rattle<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Bottle-Cap-Rattle-1.jpeg\" alt=\"Bottle Cap Rattle\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Bottle-Cap-Rattle-1.jpeg\" alt=\"Bottle Cap Rattle\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-6\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.natureski.co.nz\/news-and-blog\/10-easy-cat-toys-you-can-make-at-home\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; Nature&rsquo;s Ki<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Craft a bottle cap rattle that will delight your cat with its playful sound. Begin by gathering a few plastic bottle caps and some small beads or rice. Fill a cap with the beads, leaving a little space for movement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Securely seal the cap with non-toxic glue or tape to prevent the contents from spilling out. You might even paint the cap in bright colors to catch your cat&rsquo;s eye.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The rattling sound will intrigue your cat, prompting them to bat and chase the cap around. This lightweight toy is perfect for energetic play sessions, providing an auditory stimulus that excites feline senses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Paper Bag Hideaway<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/9-Fun-and-Easy-DIY-Cat-Toys-You-Can-Make-at-Home-Right-Now-8.jpeg\" alt=\"9 Fun and Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make at Home Right Now\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" title=\"9 Fun and Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make at Home Right Now\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/9-Fun-and-Easy-DIY-Cat-Toys-You-Can-Make-at-Home-Right-Now-8.jpeg\" alt=\"9 Fun and Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make at Home Right Now\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" title=\"9 Fun and Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make at Home Right Now\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-7\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/richter_steven\/p\/CWWzanLvWEh\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; richter_steven<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Turn an ordinary paper bag into an exciting hideaway for your cat. Simply open a large paper bag and place it in an inviting corner of your home. To enhance the comfort, line the bottom with a soft blanket or some crumpled paper.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Cats love the rustling sound and the feeling of being hidden, making this an irresistible spot for napping and playing. The bag&rsquo;s texture and shape offer endless opportunities for your cat to pounce, hide, and explore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This simple setup encourages natural feline behaviors, providing both comfort and stimulation. It&rsquo;s a cost-effective way to entertain your cat, using items you likely already have at home. Just ensure the bag is free from any handles or sharp objects for safety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. String and Bell Chaser<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/String-and-Bell-Chaser-1.jpeg\" alt=\"String and Bell Chaser\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/String-and-Bell-Chaser-1.jpeg\" alt=\"String and Bell Chaser\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-8\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.rover.com\/blog\/why-do-cats-like-string\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; Rover.com<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Craft a string and bell toy that will become a cherished part of your cat&rsquo;s playtime. To start, you&rsquo;ll need a length of sturdy string and a small bell. Tie the bell securely to one end of the string, ensuring it won&rsquo;t easily come loose during play.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The jingling sound will captivate your cat, enticing them to chase and pounce. Drag the string along the floor to simulate the movement of prey, encouraging your cat&rsquo;s natural hunting instincts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This interactive toy offers both physical exercise and mental stimulation, making it perfect for energetic play sessions. Whether used indoors or outside, it promotes a healthy, active lifestyle for your feline friend. Plus, it&rsquo;s easy to make and customize with different bells or strings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Sock and Catnip Pillow<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter is-resized\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/9-Fun-and-Easy-DIY-Cat-Toys-You-Can-Make-at-Home-Right-Now-9.jpeg\" alt=\"9 Fun and Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make at Home Right Now\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" title=\"9 Fun and Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make at Home Right Now\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/9-Fun-and-Easy-DIY-Cat-Toys-You-Can-Make-at-Home-Right-Now-9.jpeg\" alt=\"9 Fun and Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make at Home Right Now\" style=\"width:840px;height:auto\" title=\"9 Fun and Easy DIY Cat Toys You Can Make at Home Right Now\" width=\"300\" height=\"300\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-9\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/kiraspetshop\/p\/CpsYjOFOiwd\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">&copy; kiraspetshop<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>Create a catnip pillow using an old sock to provide your cat with endless enjoyment. Start by filling a sock with dried catnip and some cotton or fabric scraps for padding. Once filled, tie off the open end securely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The scent of catnip will attract your cat, encouraging them to rub, kick, and cuddle the pillow. This soothing activity can help relieve stress and provide comfort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This simple project makes use of materials readily found at home, offering a delightful treat for your cat. It&rsquo;s an excellent way to recycle old socks while providing a source of relaxation and joy for your feline friend. Just remember to refresh the catnip occasionally to maintain its enticing aroma.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Cats are natural hunters and playful explorers, and nothing gets them more excited than a fun toy to chase, bat, or pounce on. But let&rsquo;s &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":23,"featured_media":63979,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"syndication_tool_enabled":true,"syndication_tool_title":"","syndication_tool_excerpt":"","syndication_tool_featured_image":0,"syndication_tool_publish_date":"","syndication_tool_schema_types":["gallery"],"syndication_tool_backlink_enable":false,"syndication_tool_ai_disclosure_enable":false,"disable-in-feed":false,"article-schema-type":"","disable-critical-css":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-63968","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/63968","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/23"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=63968"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/63968\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":64410,"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/63968\/revisions\/64410"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/63979"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=63968"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=63968"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/catschef.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=63968"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}