In today’s world of pet care, DIY cat toys have emerged as a creative and cost-effective way to keep our feline friends entertained and mentally stimulated.
Crafting your own cat toys not only allows for customization to suit your pet’s unique preferences but also provides a rewarding opportunity for you to engage in a fun and fulfilling activity.
From upcycling materials to experimenting with catnip, these handmade toys offer endless possibilities for imaginative play.
In this article, we present 31 fantastic DIY cat toy ideas, each designed to bring joy and excitement to your cat’s playtime.
Dive into this comprehensive guide and discover how to transform everyday materials into delightful toys that both you and your cat will love.
Benefits of DIY Cat Toys
Crafting your own cat toys offers numerous advantages beyond just fun. It allows for creativity, giving you the freedom to tailor each toy to your cat’s preferences.
DIY projects are also cost-effective, using everyday materials to create engaging toys without breaking the bank.
Moreover, the joy of customization ensures your feline friend enjoys a unique play experience, sparking their curiosity and keeping them entertained.
1. Pom-Pom Feather Cat Teaser
Unleash your cat’s inner hunter with the Pom-Pom Feather Cat Teaser, a captivating toy that blends colorful pom-poms with delicate lightweight feathers. This handcrafted delight mimics the erratic movements of small prey, drawing your feline into a world of interactive play.
Crafted by tying vibrant pom-poms with soft yarn, each end features fluttery feathers that dance enticingly with every swat and chase. Its light design and varied textures are perfect for keeping cats entertained and active.
Customize easily with different color combinations to match your cat’s lively personality, making playtime a tailored experience that both entertains and engages.
2. Ribbon and Tassel Play Gym
Elevate your cat’s playtime with the Ribbon and Tassel Play Gym, a stationary wonder designed for endless fun. Built on a sturdy wooden frame, this play gym is adorned with colorful ribbons and tassels tied at varying lengths, crafting an engaging play area that invites exploration.
Each ribbon sways with the slightest touch, enticing your cat to swipe, peek, and play. This vibrant setup not only captivates your feline’s curiosity but also encourages natural instincts like batting and hiding.
Perfect for cats who delight in interactive challenges, this play gym promises to be a centerpiece of excitement and discovery.
3. Cork Feather Darts
Introduce endless fun to your cat’s playtime with Cork Feather Darts, the perfect toy for independent entertainment. Each dart features a colorful feather attached to a natural cork base, creating an alluring mix of textures that cats love.
The lightweight design makes them ideal for tossing and easy for your feline to chase and pounce on, stimulating their natural hunting instincts.
The cork’s texture provides an easy grip, while the feathers flutter enticingly, capturing your pet’s attention with every toss. Ideal for solo play, these darts encourage active engagement, offering a delightful way for your cat to stay amused and active.
4. Felt Mouse String Toy
Unleash the thrill of the hunt with the Felt Mouse String Toy, designed to captivate your cat’s playful instincts. Crafted from soft felt, this toy mimics a real mouse, complete with a jingle bell and dangling yarn tail for added sensory excitement.
The sturdy string and handle allow for dynamic interaction, encouraging your feline to engage in hunting-style play.
As you drag the mouse across the floor, watch your cat’s eyes light up with anticipation, ready to chase, bat, and pounce. This engaging toy promises hours of fun, keeping your pet entertained while satisfying their natural predatory urges.
5. Pom-Pom Roll Toy
Transform playtime with the Pom-Pom Roll Toy, a delightful DIY creation that blends whimsy and fun. Utilizing a simple toilet paper roll, this toy is adorned with colorful pom-poms, creating a texture-rich surface that entices your cat to explore.
The soft pom-poms offer a tactile experience, making it irresistible for cats to bat and pounce. Thanks to the lightweight nature of the cardboard roll, it moves unpredictably, sparking curiosity and engagement.
Perfect for solo or interactive play, this entertaining toy promises to keep your feline friend intrigued and active, offering endless hours of excitement and joy.
6. Fabric Knot Chew Toy
Introduce your cat to the Fabric Knot Chew Toy, a simple yet effective creation designed for endless gnawing pleasure. Made from soft, stretchy fabric, these knotted bundles provide a safe and chewable experience for cats who love to nibble.
The toy’s durable design ensures it withstands vigorous play, making it ideal for long-term enjoyment. Easy to craft, you can create multiple chew toys in various colors and sizes, ensuring your feline is always entertained.
Perfect for teething kittens or cats that love to chew, this toy offers a satisfying and safe way to fulfill their natural instincts.
7. PVC Pipe Puzzle Feeder
Engage your cat’s curiosity with the PVC Pipe Puzzle Feeder, a clever creation designed to challenge your cat’s mind and promote healthy eating habits.
By arranging various PVC pieces in creative configurations, this feeder encourages your feline to strategize and paw at the pipes to retrieve their treats.
This setup not only makes mealtime exciting but also serves as an excellent enrichment activity, keeping your cat mentally stimulated and active.
Ideal for preventing boredom and encouraging problem-solving skills, this puzzle feeder transforms snack time into an interactive experience that nourishes both body and mind.
8. Soft Felt Hug Toy
Pamper your cat with the Soft Felt Hug Toy, a plush creation designed to provide comfort and stimulation. Made from soft, plush felt, this toy is perfect for cats who love to cuddle and hug their playthings. Its inviting texture and gentle design make it an ideal companion for your feline’s relaxation moments.
For added excitement, stuff it with a hint of catnip, turning it into a comforting and stimulating toy. Whether your cat wants to wrestle or snuggle, this DIY toy offers a soothing yet engaging experience, ensuring your pet enjoys both leisure and playtime.
9. Jingle Ball Toy
Delight your cat with the Jingle Ball Toy, a captivating DIY plaything crafted for endless fun. Designed with a lightweight plastic cage that houses a jingle bell, this toy rolls effortlessly across the floor, enticing your cat to chase and bat.
The sound of the bell adds an auditory allure, encouraging active engagement and exploration.
Perfect for solo play, the jingle ball offers an exciting experience on any smooth surface, providing your feline friend with hours of entertainment. Whether your cat is a seasoned player or a playful kitten, this toy promises to keep them intrigued and active.
10. Spring Bouncy Toy
Unleash a world of excitement with the Spring Bouncy Toy, a vibrant creation that brings unpredictable joy to your cat’s playtime.
These colorful springs boast a lightweight design, allowing them to bounce and roll in random directions, mimicking the fluttering of small prey.
This motion captivates your cat’s attention, appealing to their innate hunting instincts. Durable and dynamic, these springs are perfect for solo play, keeping your cat intrigued and engaged.
Easily tossed across the room, they transform any space into a playground, ensuring your feline enjoys interactive and stimulating fun.
11. Yarn Puff Ball
Engage your feline with the Yarn Puff Ball, a charming DIY toy that’s quick to make and delightful for cats to play with. Crafted by wrapping yarn around a cardboard circle, this toy forms a fluffy puffball that moves enticingly across the floor. Its lightweight and soft nature makes it irresistible for cats to pounce and swat.
Add an extra layer of excitement by sprinkling a touch of catnip onto the yarn before tying. This simple yet effective toy promises to keep your cat entertained, offering a perfect blend of fun and stimulation.
12. Pom-Pom String Toy
Spark your cat’s curiosity with the Pom-Pom String Toy, a creative and interactive plaything. Designed with a simple cardboard roll decorated with colorful pom-poms and attached to a string, this toy encourages cats to chase the dangling pom-poms as they swing through the air or drag across the ground.
Its lightweight and easy-to-hold design makes it perfect for interactive play between pet owners and their cats. This engaging toy keeps your feline active and entertained, turning playtime into a shared adventure that strengthens the bond between you and your pet.
13. T-Shirt Cat Hideout
Create a cozy hideout for your feline with the T-Shirt Cat Hideout, a simple yet ingenious DIY project. Repurpose an old t-shirt and a cardboard box to craft a snug retreat. Just drape the t-shirt over the box, aligning the neck hole as the entrance.
This setup offers a soft fabric and enclosed space, providing a secure sanctuary where cats can relax and observe their surroundings.
It’s an easy, cost-effective solution that gives your pet a snug place to unwind and hide. Perfect for cats who appreciate a private nook to call their own.
14. Wall-Mounted Cardboard Scratcher
Enhance your home’s cat-friendly appeal with the Wall-Mounted Cardboard Scratcher. This elegant, wave-like design combines layers of cardboard to create an irresistible surface for cats to climb and scratch.
Mounted on the wall, it saves valuable floor space while fulfilling your cat’s natural scratching instincts.
The textured cardboard offers both physical and mental stimulation, making it a perfect addition for active felines. This stylish scratcher not only pleases your pet but also complements modern home decor.
15. Felt Fish Catnip Toys
Delight your cat with Felt Fish Catnip Toys, a vibrant and engaging creation. Cut felt into fish shapes, sew them together, and fill with catnip before closing them up. The colorful felt and soft texture are perfect for cats to bat, pounce, and carry around.
Infused with catnip, these toys offer an extra level of excitement, ensuring hours of entertainment. Ideal for cats who love interactive play, these fish toys are as fun to make as they are for your pet to enjoy.
16. Woven Carrot Catnip Toy
Introduce your cat to the Woven Carrot Catnip Toy, a charming and durable plaything. Crafted from woven paper or fabric, this carrot-shaped toy is filled with catnip to captivate your cat’s attention. The durable material and fun design make it suitable for both solo play and cuddle sessions.
Your feline will love to swat, chew, and snuggle with this delightful toy, which also adds a touch of whimsy to your home’s decor. Perfect for playful and relaxed moments alike.
17. Peek-a-Boo Box Toy
Transform an ordinary recycled box into the thrilling Peek-a-Boo Box Toy, a captivating plaything for your feline friend. By cutting multiple holes into the box, you create an exciting arena for your cat to swat at hidden toys like pom-poms or bells placed inside.
This interactive toy stimulates your cat’s natural hunting instincts, providing both mental and physical exercise as they attempt to “catch” the treasures within.
Ideal for solo play, this DIY project offers an engaging and eco-friendly way to keep your cat entertained and active, transforming playtime into a delightful adventure.
18. Treat Tube Puzzle
Turn treat time into an engaging challenge with the Treat Tube Puzzle, a clever creation using a simple toilet paper roll. By cutting strategic holes and filling it with your cat’s favorite treats or kibble, you entice your feline to bat and roll the toy to release the snacks.
This playful dispenser not only engages your cat’s mind but also rewards their efforts with a tasty treat, ensuring they remain occupied and entertained.
Perfect for curious cats, this DIY puzzle encourages active problem-solving and provides a rewarding experience that delights and satisfies.
19. Cardboard Tube Tower Feeder
Create a vertical puzzle feeder with the Cardboard Tube Tower Feeder, a simple yet stimulating DIY project. Using a box and stacked empty toilet paper rolls, you construct a fun challenge by hiding treats in some of the tubes.
Your cat will need to paw and strategize to retrieve the delicious rewards, promoting enrichment and stimulating natural foraging behavior.
This inventive toy encourages problem-solving skills while providing a satisfying and interactive playtime experience, giving your feline friend both nourishment and mental engagement in one delightful setup.
20. Denim Feather Mice
Repurpose old denim into these charming Denim Feather Mice, a delightful toy that combines style and fun. Cut out a mouse shape, sew the edges, and embellish it with colorful feathers and buttons for an appealing design. Fill with stuffing or catnip to captivate your cat’s interest.
These durable creations are perfect for swatting, tossing, and chewing, offering hours of interactive fun. Ideal for cats who love a good chase, these toys not only reuse materials creatively but also provide endless entertainment, ensuring your feline stays active and amused.
21. Plush Mouse Toy
Introduce your cat to the whimsical Plush Mouse Toy, a charming creation made from soft plush fabric. Designed with a long tail, this toy offers added fun and movement, enticing your cat to play. Its soft texture and straightforward design make it effortless for your cat to carry, bat, and cuddle.
Enhance the excitement by adding a hint of catnip inside, turning it into an irresistible playmate. Quick to craft, this DIY project provides endless entertainment while appealing to your cat’s natural hunting instincts, ensuring they stay engaged and amused for hours.
22. Triangular Chicken Toy
Introduce your cat to the delightful Triangular Chicken Toy, a charming fabric creation designed for endless amusement.
Crafted in a triangular form, this toy features adorable felt details like a comb and tail, adding to its whimsical appeal. Stuffed with soft filling or catnip, it becomes an irresistible plaything that keeps your feline intrigued.
The toy’s compact size makes it perfect for batting around, while its durable fabric ensures it withstands vigorous play.
Easy to craft, this DIY toy promises a blend of fun and durability, making it a favorite for both playful kittens and seasoned feline adventurers.
23. Hanging Yarn Heart
Elevate your cat’s playtime with the Hanging Yarn Heart, a whimsical DIY delight that captivates with its texture and movement.
Created by tightly wrapping yarn around a heart-shaped frame, this toy can be suspended from any high point, inviting your cat to bat and swat.
The soft yarn texture combined with its dangling motion keeps felines engaged and playful. Enhance its allure by adding a bell or a sprinkle of catnip, turning it into a sensory delight.
This charming creation not only stimulates your cat’s curiosity but also adds a playful touch to any home environment.
24. Pom-Pom and Ball Teaser
Activate your cat’s instincts with the Pom-Pom and Ball Teaser, an interactive toy designed for dynamic engagement. Featuring a pom-pom and a small ball suspended from a string, this toy entices your feline to leap and swat.
Easily hung from a doorframe or any elevated point, its lively movement captures your cat’s attention, promoting physical activity and mental stimulation.
Simple to assemble, this teaser offers an exciting way to keep your cat entertained and fit, ensuring they enjoy every moment of their playful pursuits.
25. Sock Fish Toys
Breathe new life into old socks with Sock Fish Toys, a charming and eco-friendly creation for your feline friend. By using discarded socks, you can quickly craft these delightful fish-shaped toys. Simply stuff them with soft filling or catnip and tie the ends to mimic a fish’s shape.
The soft material of the socks makes these toys ideal for cats to grab, bat around, and cuddle. This DIY project not only reduces waste but also provides endless entertainment, ensuring your cat has a playful companion that is both fun and sustainable.
26. Sock Cat Plushie
Delight your cat with the Sock Cat Plushie, a whimsical toy crafted from a vibrant sock. Stuffed and sewn into an adorable cat shape, this plushie is enhanced with simple stitching and features like embroidered eyes and whiskers.
Adding a sprinkle of catnip transforms it into an irresistible plaything. Perfect for both interactive and solo play, this toy invites your cat to chew, kick, and snuggle, offering a soft and playful companion that captures your feline’s heart and imagination.
27. Catnip Sock Pillow
Indulge your cat’s playful instincts with the Catnip Sock Pillow, an oversized delight filled with aromatic catnip. Crafted from an old sock, it’s stuffed and secured to keep the catnip intact.
The soft texture combined with the enticing scent makes it a favorite for cats who love to kick and wrestle.
Easily customizable with decorations, this pillow offers hours of entertainment, allowing your feline to hug, kick, and bite, satisfying their playful desires while providing a comfortable toy.
28. Cardboard Spinners
Keep your cat entertained with Cardboard Spinners, a simple yet engaging toy crafted from lightweight cardboard. Cut into various shapes such as balls or crosses, these spinners provide endless fun as they unpredictably move around.
Easy to make and cost-effective, they encourage active play, enticing your cat to bat and chase them across the floor. This DIY project is perfect for creating an engaging play environment that stimulates your cat’s natural hunting instincts.
29. Toilet Paper Roll Ball
Transform toilet paper rolls into the Toilet Paper Roll Ball, a creative toy that promises endless fun. By weaving strips of cardboard into a ball shape, you create a lightweight, intriguing toy for your cat.
The texture of the cardboard offers an easy grip, making it perfect for rolling and batting. This simple DIY toy encourages active play, keeping your cat entertained and engaged for hours, ensuring they remain active and content.
30. Hanging Toy Box
Create a dynamic play center with the Hanging Toy Box, a stimulating DIY project that transforms a cardboard box into a feline playground.
By suspending toys like mice, balls, and feathers inside, you craft an enticing environment where toys dangle at various lengths.
This setup invites your cat to swat and paw, providing both physical and mental stimulation. Perfect for indoor play, this hanging toy box keeps curious cats active and entertained, offering an adventurous escape in the comfort of your home.
31. Felt Jack-O’-Lantern Catnip Toy
Celebrate Halloween with the Felt Jack-O’-Lantern Catnip Toy, a festive addition to your cat’s playthings. Crafted from bright orange felt, these pumpkin-shaped toys feature stitched faces and green accents, embodying the spooky spirit of the season.
The soft texture of the felt makes it perfect for batting and chewing, while the catnip inside keeps your feline friend captivated.
Simple to make, this DIY project combines creativity and fun, transforming ordinary materials into a holiday treat that will entertain and delight your cat, adding a touch of seasonal charm to their toy collection.
