Cats have a real knack for turning the simplest things into playtime. If you’ve ever watched your cat go wild over a cardboard box or a crumpled receipt, you know what I mean. Instead of buying pricey toys, you can make your own diy cat toys at home using stuff you probably already have lying around. It’s fun, it saves you money, and your cat gets something new to play with. Here are 10 ideas to get you started.
Key Takeaways
- You don’t need fancy supplies to make fun diy cat toys—most can be made from things you already have.
- Homemade cat toys help keep your cat active and entertained, especially when you’re busy.
- Simple materials like cardboard, old socks, and yarn are perfect for quick projects.
- Making your own toys can save you money and reduce waste at home.
- Always check that your diy cat toys are safe—avoid anything small enough to swallow or with loose parts.
1. Cardboard Box
If you think a plain cardboard box is just recycling, your cat knows better. A cardboard box is the instant classic of homemade cat toys—it turns your living room into a wonderland for your furry companion in only minutes. No fancy supplies needed. Honestly, all it takes is pulling an empty box out of the closet and letting your cat sniff around. But if you want to get a little more creative, here's what you can do:
- Choose a sturdy shipping box or even stack two for a multi-level palace.
- Cut out holes for windows, doors, and tunnels using a box cutter (careful with your hands – trust me, those blades are sharp!).
- Toss in a soft blanket, maybe some of your cat’s favorite toys, or sprinkle a pinch of catnip to get the party started.
- For extra flair, attach smaller boxes or create ramps and connecting passages for added exploration.
Want to know why cats go nuts for boxes? It’s not just about hiding—they feel safe and cozy inside, plus the cardboard is just the right texture for scratching and chewing. Even if you botch the box and it looks like you let a toddler cut the holes, your cat will still think it’s amazing.
There’s something about seeing your cat disappear into a cardboard “fort” that makes you realize how simple their happiness can be. No expensive gadgets—just you, a box, and the soft thump of a tail inside.
If you’re looking for a quick win that’ll actually get used, trust the box. Your living room might look a little wild, but your cat will love you for it.
2. Toilet Paper Roll
Looking for a cat toy you can make in five minutes? The ordinary toilet paper roll is actually a jackpot for cat owners. Cats go wild for these simple tubes, and you don’t need anything fancy to make playtime fun. Plus, you’re upcycling something destined for the trash.
Here are a few ways to turn a toilet paper roll into a DIY cat toy:
- Treat Burrow: Fold in the edges of one side, drop a couple of dry treats inside, then fold the other end. Shake it a bit and roll it your cat’s way—they’ll knock it around and work to fish out the goodies.
- Feather Toy: Cut small holes in the roll, thread a feather or two through each hole, and let your cat pounce at the new textures.
- Jingly Roller: Put a bell or couple of dried beans (make sure everything is secure!), fold the ends shut, and you’ve got a noisy roller that’s irresistible for swatting.
- Shredder: Make shallow cuts on the ends to create fringes—cats love tugging and chewing on the flappy bits.
Sometimes the things we usually throw out are the ones that bring cats the most joy. A toilet paper roll might keep them busy longer than any store-bought toy, and it costs nothing.
So next time, don’t toss that empty roll—your cat will appreciate the upgrade to their toy stash!
3. T-Shirt
Old t-shirts always seem to pile up in the laundry basket. Instead of tossing them, why not turn one into a fun DIY cat toy? With just a few quick snips and a little knotting, you can make an entertaining and totally free toy for your cat.
Here's how you can whip up a simple t-shirt cat toy in minutes:
- Lay a clean, old t-shirt flat on a table.
- Using a ruler and a marker, draw six lines about 1 inch wide and 10 inches long from the bottom edge.
- Cut out the fabric strips.
- Stack the strips, then tie them together tightly in the center with a knot.
- Toss the knotted bundle to your cat and get ready for the show.
If you have more t-shirts lying around, you can also make a cozy cat tent using some simple household supplies, and it can be just as sturdy as some of those durable pet toys you see online.
- T-shirt strips create a durable, washable toy.
- Cats love the movement and texture of the knotted fabric.
- Reusing old shirts keeps waste out of landfills.
It’s always a little surprising how much a cat will love something so simple. The t-shirt knot twists easily, flops around, and seems to flip just right—all exciting things for a playful cat, especially when you're on a budget.
4. Sock
Got a single sock left behind by the laundry gremlins? It can actually become one of your cat’s best toys. A simple sock transforms easily into a fun, crinkly, and kickable cat toy. All you need is an old sock, some filler (think: newspaper, old fabric scraps, or soft fiberfill), and a little dried catnip if your cat likes it.
Here’s how you make a basic sock toy:
- Flip the sock inside out and tie off the toe with a knot if you don’t want filling to slip out.
- Stuff the sock with filler—add crinkly newspaper bits in between soft stuff for fun sounds.
- Sprinkle in a pinch of dried catnip.
- Knot it at the opening, or tie it off tightly with some yarn or string (make sure any string is knotted well so your cat doesn’t untangle it).
- If you want, you can braid extra socks or scraps onto the end for a tugging tail.
- Socks with holes? Just tie those shut and keep the fun going—it won’t matter to your cat.
- You can add jingle bells inside for extra noise (just make sure the sock stays knotted, since bells are only fun if they’re safely inside).
One thing I notice: my cat goes wild for the newspaper crinkle inside, and when I throw the sock toy down the hallway, he’ll chase it until he’s worn out. Somehow, the more raggedy the sock gets, the more he seems to love it.
Old socks, new favorite toy. Don’t overthink it—cats love simple stuff!
5. Wine Cork
Cats never fail to find excitement in the most random things, and wine corks are basically their version of an unexpected jackpot. If you’ve ever cleaned up after a gathering and found your cat batting around a stray cork, you’ll know how captivating they find its bounce and texture. Making a legit toy from one couldn’t be simpler, and it uses items most people already have lying around.
Here’s how you can make your own wine cork cat toy:
- Use a nail to poke a hole straight through the center of the wine cork. It’s easier if the cork is dry and you work it through slowly—no need to rush.
- Thread a length of yarn (about 12 inches or longer) through the hole. A darning needle helps, but you can improvise with a chopstick or skewer if you’ve got the patience.
- Tie some knots in the ends or add some tassels so the yarn doesn’t slip out and your cat has extra things to grab.
You can even boost the fun by tying a little jingle bell to the end of the string or rubbing a pinch of catnip onto the cork. Just don’t be surprised when this simple toy ends up being your cat’s new obsession.
It’s honestly kind of hilarious to watch how quickly cats forget their fancy toys when faced with something as basic as a cork on a string. They’ll chase, bat, and pounce, and you’ll feel pretty proud that you made it yourself.
6. Feather
Feathers are one of those things cats just can't ignore. If you have a few loose craft feathers sitting in a drawer, you’re sitting on a gold mine of potential fun for your kitty. Cats will pounce, bat, and chase feathers for ages—something about that fluttery movement really grabs their attention. You don’t need expensive gadgets for this; a simple homemade feather toy can often thrill a cat as much as a fancier version like an Interactive Intelligent Luminous Cat Toy.
Here’s how you can whip one up at home:
- Gather a few clean craft feathers.
- Find a stick, thin dowel, or even a pencil.
- Secure the feathers together with a bit of string, then tie or glue them to one end of your stick.
Throw in a bell or bit of fabric if you want to mix it up, but honestly, the feathers are usually enough. If you’re up for it, you can attach the feathers directly to some string (dangling from a cat tower or a doorknob) for a different kind of fun. Always keep an eye out for loose bits that could be swallowed, especially if your cat is a chewer.
Watching a cat leap for a feather on a string is a reminder that sometimes the simplest DIY toys bring out the wildest play.
For those whose cats like to destroy anything in reach, the great news is these are quick to make and easy to replace. Just be careful not to leave feather toys out unsupervised if you've got a kitty that loves to tear things apart. Feathers might not last forever, but you can always make more when your cat demands another round.
7. Yarn
Yarn is just about everywhere in a crafty home, and cats can't resist the stuff. With a little effort, you can whip up a whole set of homemade yarn toys that will keep your kitty busy for hours. I have a stash of leftover yarn from old projects, and let me tell you, it’s all fair game for cat entertainment now.
Here are three easy ideas to try with yarn:
- No-Sew Pom-Poms:
- Simple Yarn Ball:
- Crochet Cat Toys:
Homemade yarn toys are just as fun for your cat as anything you’ll buy at the store, and you barely need any supplies. Plus, it feels good using up those leftover bits and pieces instead of tossing them.
Keep an eye on your cat during play. If they start chewing through and swallowing bits of yarn, it’s time to swap to something sturdier. Other than that — get creative and let your cat enjoy the tangle!
8. Pipe Cleaner
Pipe cleaners are surprisingly handy for making quick, engaging cat toys right at your kitchen table. Their flexible wire lets you twist them into all sorts of wacky shapes, which can keep a bored kitty entertained for ages. I usually find myself fumbling around the junk drawer for those leftover pipe cleaners from some old craft kit—turns out, they're even better for cats than whatever holiday project I had in mind.
Here's a go-to method for creating simple pipe cleaner cat toys:
- Grab two or three pipe cleaners in bright colors (cats seem to love anything that stands out on the floor).
- Wrap one around your finger a few times to make a springy coil—aim for a loose spiral rather than a tight knot.
- Bend the ends inward so there's nothing sharp sticking out.
- If you're feeling extra, twist two coils together into a double-helix shape. These roll and bounce chaotically, which makes them more fun for your cat.
- For added interest, you can thread a bell onto a pipe cleaner before coiling it, or tie on a tiny scrap of fabric for a fake "mouse tail."
- Don't leave these toys lying around unsupervised if your cat is a chewer, as wire can poke through if bitten hard enough.
- Twist pipe cleaners through cardboard or other toys to create new textures.
- Try attaching a pipe cleaner toy to a string or stick for a cheap wand toy.
Sometimes the simplest, silliest toy you make in 30 seconds turns out to be your cat's favorite, even when you've spent more money on fancy ones. Give a homemade pipe cleaner toy a shot—you might be surprised how long it holds your cat's attention.
9. Felt
Felt is one of those materials you probably have stashed somewhere in your craft drawer. Making a DIY cat toy from felt is easier than you might think, and it pays off — cats just can't get enough of that soft texture mixed with some fun shapes. All it takes is a little cutting, a bit of stitching, and you'll have something your cat can't ignore.
Here's a quick way to get started:
- Cut two identical shapes from felt — it could be a mouse, emoji, or even just a simple ball.
- Sew around the edges, leaving a small gap.
- Stuff the inside with cotton scraps, catnip, or maybe a treat or two.
- Sew the gap closed securely.
If you want to mix things up, add a feather or a rope tail at one end before closing the stitch. Not only does it give your cat something extra to grab, but it turns a plain toy into a mini playtime adventure. Look for inspiration on shapes or fill ideas — even something as humble as a durable rubber toy can spark an idea for tweaking your DIY version.
Cats often lose interest in store-bought toys but show endless curiosity for something you made with your own hands.
Felt toys are also easy to remake if they get chewed up or misplaced (as they inevitably will). Try tossing a few around the house and see which ones become your cat's favorite!
10. Sisal Rope
If you've ever watched your cat go to town on your favorite armchair, you know exactly why a sisal rope toy is a game-changer. Sisal rope is sturdy and scratch-friendly, which makes it perfect for DIY cat toys. There’s something about the texture—tough but still a little rough—which drives cats wild, and the best part is you can make something simple without any special skills.
Here’s an easy way to put together a sisal rope cat toy or scratcher:
- Grab a piece of wood (an old table leg or a leftover plank works great).
- Starting at one end, tightly wrap sisal rope all the way around, making sure every row is flush with the last. Use a dab of glue every so often so it doesn’t unravel.
- Once you reach the end, securely glue or knot the last bit of rope.
- You can even dangle a toy or feather from the top to get your cat’s attention.
If you’re aiming for something quick, you can also wrap sisal rope around a cardboard tube or even braid sections of the rope together and tie knots at both ends—it’s that easy. Some people add a sprinkle of catnip inside the rope or glue on little bells to up the excitement factor.
Your cat gets a spot to scratch that isn’t your furniture, plus it’s made from stuff you probably have in your garage or craft bin.
Why use sisal rope?
- Durable against claws and teeth
- Affordable and found at most hardware stores
- Safe, as it doesn’t splinter or fray easily like other ropes
A lot of folks swear by these homemade scratchers, and after trying it myself, I totally get why—my cat even ignores the store-bought ones now. Just make sure the rope is natural sisal; avoid any that look coated or extra shiny, as those sometimes have treatments that aren’t pet-friendly.
Sisal rope is tough, reliable, and can be used for many things around the house or in the yard. If you’re looking for strong rope for crafts or outdoor projects, sisal is a great choice. Want to see more? Check out the full selection on our website today!
Conclusion
So there you have it—ten simple ways to keep your cat busy without spending a fortune or running to the pet store every week. Most of these ideas use stuff you probably already have lying around the house, which is a win for your wallet and the planet. Plus, making toys for your cat is just plain fun. You get to see what your cat actually likes (spoiler: it’s usually the box the toy came in). Don’t worry if your first attempt looks a little rough—your cat won’t care. They’ll be too busy batting, chasing, and pouncing. Give a few of these a try and see which ones become your cat’s new favorites. Who knows, you might even find yourself making more just for the fun of it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are homemade cat toys safe for my cat?
Yes, homemade cat toys can be safe if you use non-toxic materials and avoid small parts that your cat could swallow. Always watch your cat the first time they play with a new toy to make sure it’s safe.
What are some things I should avoid when making cat toys?
Stay away from anything sharp, small beads, loose strings, or items that could break apart easily. Also, don’t use toxic glues, paints, or cleaners on your DIY toys.
How can I make sure my cat likes the toys I make?
Try using materials your cat already enjoys, like cardboard, feathers, or yarn. You can also add a bit of catnip to make the toy more exciting for your kitty.
How often should I replace or clean DIY cat toys?
Check your cat’s toys every week for signs of wear and tear. Replace or fix any toys that are falling apart. Wash fabric toys in mild soap and water when they get dirty.
Can I use recycled materials for DIY cat toys?
Absolutely! Many great cat toys can be made from things like old T-shirts, socks, cardboard boxes, or empty toilet paper rolls. Just make sure everything is clean and safe for your cat.
Why is it important to give my cat toys?
Toys help keep your cat active and happy. They prevent boredom, give your cat exercise, and can even help stop them from scratching furniture or getting into trouble.
