55+ Easy DIY Cat Toys Your Cat Will Actually Love

Give Your Cat the Gift of Play with 55+ DIY Toys They'll Adore

Inside This DIY Cat Toys Guide

  • Dozens of simple and budget-friendly DIY cat toy ideas using everyday items.
  • How to create toys that provide mental and physical enrichment for your cat.
  • Important safety guidelines to ensure your homemade cat toys are safe and fun.
  • Find the perfect DIY project for your cat’s personality, from quick and easy toys to challenging puzzles and scratching posts.
  • Toys that satisfy your cat’s natural hunting instincts.
  • Step-by-step instructions and tips from a new and old cat owner.

Table of Contents

Is your feline friend yawning at their store-bought toys? Want a budget-friendly way to create diy cat toy with love (and fun)? You’re in the right place! Making your own cat toys is super easy, totally rewarding and a great way to bond with your kitty.

As a lifelong cat owner, I’ve been perfecting the art of DIY cat entertainment for years. This guide shares my tried-and-true favorites, from lightning-fast projects to more complicated creations, all designed to keep your cat happy, healthy and entertained.

Why DIY Cat Toys are a Must for Happy Cats

It’s not just about saving a few dollars (though that’s nice!). DIY cat toys offer many benefits for your cat:

  • Beat Boredom: A bored cat can become destructive. Toys provide much needed mental stimulation, preventing unwanted behaviors like furniture scratching.
  • Get Them Moving: Just like us, cats need physical activity to stay healthy. Interactive toys encourage pouncing, chasing and playing.
  • Sharpen Their Minds: Puzzle toys challenge your cat’s problem-solving skills, keeping their brains engaged.
  • Tap into Their Instincts: Toys that mimic prey (like mice or birds) allow cats to express their natural hunting behaviors.
  • Reduce Stress: A stimulating environment with plenty of toys and hiding places can help reduce anxiety, especially in multi-cat households.
  • Affordable Fun: Toys don’t have to cost a fortune to be fun!

Safety First! DIY Cat Toy Essentials

Before you get crafty, please read these safety guidelines:

  • No Small Parts: No buttons, beads, small plastic pieces, etc.
  • Non-Toxic Materials: Use cat-safe materials only. No strong chemicals, paints or glues.
  • Supervise Playtime: Always watch your cat when they play with a new toy, especially initially.
  • String & Ribbon Caution: Long strings or ribbons can be a choking hazard. If used, make sure they’re very securely attached and always supervise. Short, securely attached pieces are safer.
  • Regular Inspections: Check toys frequently for wear and tear. Discard any that are damaged or falling apart.

Mittens, my cat, is a powerful chewer. I’ve learned to double knot everything and use extra strong materials for her toys. I also check them daily for any signs of damage.

Let’s Get Crafty! DIY Cat Toys for Every Cat & Skill Level

We’ve categorized the toys by type and difficulty so you can find the perfect project.

Section 1: Super-Fast Fun! DIY Cat Toys You Can Make in Under 15 Minutes

These are your go-to projects for instant feline gratification.

(1) The Classic Toilet Paper Roll Puzzle (Treat Dispenser)

What you need: Empty toilet paper roll, scissors, cat treats.

How to make it:

  1. Fold one end of the toilet paper roll inward to close it.
  2. Cut a few small holes along the sides (big enough for treats to fall out but not too big).
  3. Place a few treats inside.
  4. Fold the other end of the roll inward to close it.
  5. Let the games begin! Your cat will roll and bat the tube to release the treats.

Why cats love it: It’s a puzzle with a treat!

Supervise to make sure your cat doesn’t chew and ingest pieces of cardboard.

Orange tabby cat batting at a DIY toilet paper roll puzzle toy with treats visible inside

(2) The Speedy Sock Fish (Catnip Cuddler)

What you need: Old sock (clean!), catnip (optional), string (optional).

How to make it:

  1. Fill the sock with catnip (if your cat enjoys it) or some fabric scraps for stuffing.
  2. Tie the open end of the sock very tightly with a knot.
  3. (Optional) Tie a short piece of string to the knot for extra play (but\ always\ supervise!).

Why cats love it: Soft, cuddly and (potentially) filled with their favorite herb!

Make sure the knot is super tight, so the filling doesn’t come out.

Close-up of a blue and white striped DIY sock fish cat toy filled with catnip, tied with a secure knot

(3) The Irresistible Aluminum Foil Ball

What you need: Aluminum foil.

How to make it:

  1. Tear off a sheet of aluminum foil.
  2. Crumple it into a ball. That’s it!

Why cats love it: Lightweight, crinkly and easy to bat around. It’s\ surprisingly addictive!

Make sure there are no sharp edges on the foil ball.

Silver tabby cat pawing at a crumpled aluminum foil ball cat toy on a hardwood floor

(4) The Bouncy Pipe Cleaner Spring

What you need: Pipe cleaner.

How to Make It:

  1. Wrap the pipe cleaner around a pencil.
  2. Slide it off the pencil.
  3. Fold the ends of the pipe cleaner over completely to eliminate any sharp points.

Why cats love it: It bounces unexpectedly!

Fold the ends over well so your cat doesn’t get scratched.

Close-up of a bright green DIY pipe cleaner spring cat toy, with the ends safely folded over

(5) The Simple Folded Straw Teaser

What you need: Plastic drinking straw.

How to Make It:

  1. Fold one end of the straw.
  2. Fold it back onto itself to create a small loop.

Why cats love it: Lightweight and easy to flick and chase.

Supervise play and discard if the straw becomes cracked or chewed.

Hand holding a folded plastic drinking straw cat toy, showing the loop created for easy play

Section 2: Puzzle Power! Interactive Toys to Challenge Your Cat’s Mind

These toys provide mental stimulation and keep your cat entertained for longer.

Beginner Level:

(6) The Box of Mystery (Treasure Hunt!)

What you need: Cardboard box (shoebox size or larger), scissors, treats or small toys.

How to make it:

  1. Cut several holes in the sides of the box, big enough for your cat to reach in with a paw.
  2. Put treats or small toys inside the box.
  3. Let your cat figure out how to get them out!

Why cats love it: It taps into their natural curiosity and hunting instincts.

Make sure the holes are smooth and don’t have any sharp edges.

Ginger cat reaching a paw into a cardboard box with holes cut in the sides, trying to retrieve a treat

(7) Toilet Paper Roll Treat Tower (Stack ‘Em Up!)

What You Need: Several empty toilet paper rolls, a flat piece of sturdy cardboard (for the base), non-toxic glue.

How to Make It:

  1. Apply glue to one end of each toilet paper roll.
  2. Stand the rolls upright on the cardboard base, close together, forming a cluster.
  3. Let the glue dry completely.
  4. Put treats in the tubes.

Why cats love it: They have to work a little harder to get their treats, making it more rewarding.

Ensure the glue is completely dry and non-toxic.

DIY toilet paper roll treat tower glued to a cardboard base, with treats visible inside the tubes

Intermediate Level:

(8) The Multi-Level Cardboard Puzzle (Brain Teaser!)

What you need: Cardboard box, cardboard scraps (for dividers), scissors, strong tape (like packing tape), treats.

How to make it:

  1. Cut out cardboard pieces to create dividers inside the box, forming different compartments.
  2. Tape the dividers to the inside walls of the box.
  3. Cut small holes in the dividers, so your cat can reach between compartments.
  4. Put treats in some (but not all) of the compartments.

Why cats love it: A more complex puzzle that requires problem-solving skills.

Ensure the tape is strong and the cardboard edges are smooth.

Complex DIY cardboard puzzle box with multiple compartments and holes, with a cat investigating

(9) The Catch the Ball Game (Batting Practice!)

What you need:

  • Cardboard
  • a ping-pong ball
  • scissors
  • a small circular object (to trace)
  1. Cut a long, thin strip of cardboard (wide enough for the ping-pong ball).
  2. Glue the strip around the edge of one of the cardboard circles, creating a shallow wall.
  3. Put the ping-pong ball inside.
  4. Glue the second cardboard circle on top, covering the ball.
  5. (Optional) Add more layers by repeating steps 2-5.

Why cats love it: They can bat the ball around, but it can’t escape!

Make sure the glue is non-toxic and dry.

DIY cardboard cat toy with a ping pong ball trapped inside, showing the circular design

Advanced Level:

(10) The Treat Puzzle Tree (Ultimate Challenge!)

What you need: A sturdy paper towel roll, a flat piece of cardboard (for the base), empty toilet paper rolls, non-toxic glue, treats.

How to make it:

  1. Glue the paper towel roll to the cardboard base at a slight angle.
  2. Cut the toilet paper rolls into shorter lengths (various heights).
  3. Glue the shorter toilet paper rolls to the sides of the paper towel roll, creating "branches".
  4. Let the glue dry completely.
  5. Place treats inside the "branches".

Why cats love it: A multi-level puzzle that requires planning and dexterity!

This one takes patience! I found it helpful to use clothespins to hold the "branches" in place while the glue dried. Don't be afraid to experiment with different angles and arrangements.

Ensure stability and non-toxic glue.

Completed DIY treat puzzle tree made from paper towel and toilet paper rolls, with treats placed in the branches

(11) The Floating Puzzle (Water Fun–For Some Cats!)

What you need: A shallow tray or container, water, bottle caps (various sizes), treats.

How to Make It:

  1. Fill the tray with a shallow layer of water.
  2. Place a few treats inside the bottle caps.
  3. Float the bottle caps on the water.

Why cats love it: It's a unique sensory experience! Water fascinated some cats, while others might be hesitant. It's a good way to introduce water play in a controlled way.

Always supervise your cat around water. Use a shallow amount of water and make sure the container is stable.

Cat pawing at floating bottle caps containing treats in a shallow tray of water

Section 3: Unleash the Hunter! Toys to Satisfy Natural Instincts

These toys encourage your cat to stalk, pounce, and play like the little predator they are!

Beginner Level

(12) The Classic Feather Wand (Bird on a String!)

What you need: Wooden Dowel or Stick, string, feathers, nontoxic glue.

How to Make it:

  1. Tie one end of the string very securely to the end of the dowel.
  2. Use glue to attach the feathers to the other end of the string. Make sure they're well attached!
  3. Dangle and wiggle the wand to entice your cat to play.

Why cats love it: It’s a bird!

I use different types of feathers (long, fluffy, colorful) to mix it up. I also add a tiny bell sometimes–Whiskers go crazy for it.

Supervise wand play. Never leave the wand alone with your cat.

Hand holding a DIY feather wand cat toy, with colorful feathers attached to a string and dowel

(13) The Catnip Sock Kicker (Wrestling Buddy!)

What you need: Old long sock, catnip, stuffing, strong string.

How to make it:

  1. Sprinkle a bunch of catnip inside the sock.
  2. Add stuffing to make the sock big and firm.
  3. Tie the open end of the sock EXTREMELY tight with the strong string. Use multiple knots and make sure it’s secure.

Why Cats Love it: Perfect size for grabbing, kicking and bunny-kicking! The catnip is extra exciting.

For extra durability, I sometimes sew the end of the sock closed before tying it with string. Old athletic socks are great for this toy because they’re usually thicker and more durable.

Check the catnip is safe and tie securely.

Large DIY catnip sock kicker toy, securely tied, with a cat actively wrestling and kicking it

Intermediate Level:

(14) The Felt Mouse (Pocket-Sized Prey!)

What you need: Felt, needle and thread, stuffing, catnip.

How to make it:

  1. Cut out two identical mouse shapes from the felt.
  2. Sew the two pieces together along the edges, leaving a small opening for stuffing.
  3. Stuff the mouse with stuffing and a pinch of catnip (if using).
  4. Sew the opening closed.

Why Cats Love it: Small, soft and perfect for batting, carrying and “hunting.”

Make sure the sewing is strong around the edges.

Close-up of a gray felt mouse cat toy, showing the stitching and details

(15) The Wine Cork Teaser (Dangling Delight!)

What You Need: Wine corks, yarn or strong string, darning needle, scissors.

How to make it:

  1. Carefully use the darning needle to make a hole through the center of the wine cork.
  2. Thread the yarn or string through the hole.
  3. Tie a knot at one end of the string to attach it to the cork.
  4. (Optional) Tie small knots or attach small pieces of felt or feathers along the length of the string for extra interest.

Why Cats love it: The cork is easy to bat and the dangling string encourages playful swats.

Supervise play and make sure the cork and any attachments are secured.

DIY wine cork teaser cat toy with yarn attached, dangling from a hand

Advanced Level:

(16) The Cardboard Cat Castle (Ultimate Playground!)

What you need: Several Cardboard boxes, strong tape, scissors.

How to make it:

  1. Plan your design! Think tunnels, ramps, multiple levels and hiding spots.
  2. Cut holes in the boxes to create doorways and windows (make sure they’re big enough for your cat to fit through comfortably).
  3. Tape the boxes together to form your design. Reinforce any weaknesses.
  4. (Optional) Decorate with non-toxic markers or paint.

Why Cats Love it: It’s a multi-functional space for playing, hiding and exploring!

I like to add a “secret entrance” to the castle–a flap of cardboard that my cats can push open. It adds an extra element of surprise! Get creative and let your imagination run wild. You could theme the castle.

Make sure the structure is stable and there are no sharp edges or places where your cat can get stuck.

Large, multi-level DIY cardboard cat castle with tunnels, ramps, and hiding spots, with a cat exploring inside

(17) The Venture Mat (Textured Terrain!)

What you need: Doormat, reusable shopping bag, Velcro strips, scissors.

How to make it:

  1. Cut the shopping bag to the same size as the doormat.
  2. Cut holes and slits in the shopping bag material, different shapes and openings.
  3. Attach Velcro to the corners of the doormat and the corresponding corners of the shopping bag material.
  4. Press the shopping bag material onto the doormat, secure with Velcro.

Why Cats love it: A new texture to explore and you can hide treats or toys under the flaps and openings.

Make sure Velcro is secure

DIY venture mat cat toy made from a doormat and a reusable shopping bag with cutouts, with a cat investigating

Section 4: Scratch, Stretch, and Climb! Scratching Posts & More

(18) The Simple Sisal Scratcher (Furniture Saver!)

What you need: Piece of wood, sisal rope, non-toxic glue, staple gun.

How to make it:

  1. Apply glue to the wood.
  2. Starting at one end, wrap the sisal rope around the wood, press firmly into glue.
  3. Keep covering until you've covered the entire surface.
  4. (Optional) Use staple gun to secure rope at the beginning, end and periodically along the length.

Why Cats love it: Cats need to scratch to keep their claws healthy and to mark their territory. Sisal is a great scratching material.

I like to rub a little catnip on the finished scratching post to encourage my cats to use it.

Adult supervision if using staple gun.

Cat scratching on a DIY sisal scratching post attached to a piece of wood

(19) Tree Stump Scratch Pad (Rustic Charm!)

What you need: Cardboard, Tape, Glue, Cork or Bark.

How to Make it:

  1. Roll the cardboard into a cylinder and tape it to keep its shape.
  2. Apply glue to the outside of the cardboard cylinder.
  3. Attach cork or bark to the glued surface, covering it completely to look like a tree stump.

Why cats love it: Looks like a natural scratching surface and great in your home!

Use non-toxic glue and make sure all materials are secure.

DIY tree stump scratch pad made from cardboard and cork, resembling a small tree trunk

(20) Cardboard Cat scraper (Skyscraper Fun!)

What you need: Lots of cardboard, strong wooden dowel or sturdy cardboard tube, non-toxic glue, base.

How to make it:

  1. Cut out many identical cardboard squares or rectangles (the size will determine the footprint of your scraper).
  2. Cut a hole in the center of each cardboard piece, big enough for the dowel or tube to fit through.
  3. Glue the base to the bottom of the dowel/tube.
  4. Stack the cardboard pieces onto the dowel/tube, gluing between each layer.
  5. Continue stacking until you want. Let the glue dry completely before your cat uses it.

Why Cat's love it: Vertical scratching and stretching is great for their muscles and claws.

Make sure it's very stable and glue is dry.

Tall DIY cardboard catscraper made from stacked cardboard squares around a central dowel

Section 5: Bonus Bonanza! Even More DIY Cat Toy Ideas

(21) Junk Food Felt Toys (So Cute!)

What you need: Colored felt, catnip (optional), needle and thread (or fabric glue), filling (cotton balls or fabric scraps).

How to make it:

  1. Cut out shapes of your cat’s favorite “junk food”–donuts, pizza slices, burgers, hot dogs, etc. (You can find templates online or draw your own).
  2. Cut two of each shape.
  3. Sew (or glue) the two pieces together, leaving a small hole.
  4. Fill with filling and a pinch of catnip (if using).
  5. Sew (or glue) the hole shut.

Why cats love it: They’re cute, colorful and (potentially) filled with catnip!

If sewing, supervise use. Make sure glue is non-toxic and fully dry.

Collection of colorful DIY felt cat toys shaped like junk food items (donut, pizza, burger)

(22) DIY Fork Pom Pom Toys (Fluffy Fun!)

What you need: Yarn (any color), fork, scissors.

How to make it:

  1. Wrap yarn around the tines of a fork about 60 times.
  2. Cut a separate piece of yarn and tie it around the center of the wrapped yarn (between the middle tines of the fork).
  3. Carefully slide the yarn off the fork.
  4. Cut the loops on both sides of the tied center.
  5. Fluff the yarn to create a pom-pom. Trim any uneven ends.

Why cats love it: They’re soft, bouncy and fun to bat around.

Trim any long yarn.

Close-up of a fluffy DIY yarn pom-pom cat toy, made using a fork

(23) Cattail Catnip Kicker (One-Sew Simplicity!)

What you need: Sturdy fabric (home decor weight is good), matching thread, yarn, catnip, chopstick (or similar tool), funnel.

How to make it:

  1. Cut a long, rectangular piece of fabric (about 12 inches long and 4 inches wide).
  2. Fold the fabric in half lengthwise, right sides together.
  3. Sew along the long edge, leaving one short end open.
  4. Turn the fabric right side out (use the chopstick to help push out the corners).
  5. Use the funnel to fill the fabric tube with catnip.
  6. Tie the open end shut with yarn, making several knots.

Why cats love it: They’re so cute!

Trim any long strands.

Long, cylindrical DIY cattail catnip kicker toy made from sturdy fabric

(24) T-shirt Cat Toys (No-Sew Knots!)

What you need: Old t-shirts (colorful ones are great!), scissors.

How to make it:

  1. Cut the t-shirt into strips (about 3 inches wide and 10 inches long).
  2. Tie the strips together into knots. You can make simple knots, or try braiding several strips together before knotting.

Why cats love it: They're soft to grab, and fun to chew on.

Check for loose threads and discard if they start to unravel.

Collection of knotted DIY cat toys made from colorful strips of old t-shirts

(25) Feathered Frenzy Wand (Deluxe Edition!)

What you need: Wooden dowel, string, colorful feathers, felt scraps, glue (non-toxic), small bell (optional).

How to make it:

  1. Cut out small shapes from the felt (leaves, stars, etc.).
  2. Glue the feathers and felt shapes at the end of the string.
  3. Tie the string to the wooden dowel.
  4. (Optional) Add a small bell for extra sound.

Why cats love it: The combination of feathers, felt, and (possibly) a bell is irresistible!

Ensure all items are secure and supervise play.

DIY feathered frenzy wand cat toy with colorful feathers, felt shapes, and a wooden dowel

(26) Crinkle Ball (Sound Sensation!)

What you need: Empty plastic water bottle (small size), old sock.

How to Make It:

  1. Remove the cap and label from the water bottle.
  2. Stuff the water bottle into the sock.
  3. Tie the open end of the sock tightly with a knot.

Why Cats Love It: The crinkling sound of the plastic bottle is very stimulating!

Make sure the knot it bound, and the bottle has no sharp edges.

DIY crinkle ball cat toy made from a plastic water bottle stuffed inside an old sock

(27) Cardboard Hide-and-Seek Toy (Simple Fun!)

What you need: Large cardboard box, scissors.

How to Make it:

  1. Cut various sizes of holes around the sides of the box.
  2. (Optional) add old toys inside.

Why Cats Love it: It is simple and fun.

Ensure no sharp edges.

Cat inside a large cardboard box with various sized holes cut into the sides

(28) Cat Dancer Toy (Elegant Movement!)

What you need: Colorful felt, catnip, string, rod, pom poms (optional)

How to make it:

  1. Cut the felt into fun shapes.
  2. Stuff each shape with catnip and sew both sides together.3. Tie the pieces of string to the rod and tie the shapes to the end.
  3. Glue on any pom poms or feathers.

Why Cats Love It: It is fun and stimulating.

Ensure all additions are secure.

DIY cat dancer toy with colorful felt shapes attached to strings and a rod

(29) Hanging Doorway Toy (Bouncy Surprise!)

What you need: Elastic Cord, Feathers, Small toy or bell, Something to hang it with (e.g., over-the-door hook).

How to Make It:

  1. Tie the feathers and/or toy to one end of the elastic cord.
  2. Tie the other end of the cord to the hook, making sure it hangs at a height your cat can reach.

Why Cats Love It: It bounces and dangles, encouraging, jumping and swatting.

Ensure you securely attach all parts, use sturdy elastic, and supervise play to prevent. entanglement.

Cat reaching up to play with a DIY hanging doorway toy attached to an over-the-door hook

(30) Toilet Paper Roll Butterfly (Whimsical Delight!)

What you need: Toilet paper roll, colorful paper or felt, scissors, glue (no toxic), pipe cleaner (optional).

How to Make It:

  1. Cover the toilet paper roll with colored paper or felt.
  2. Cut out butterfly wings from the paper or felt.
  3. Glue the wings to the back of the toilet paper roll.
  4. (Optional) Add antennae with pipe cleaner.

Why Cats Love It: Its a new shape.

Make sure glue is dry before use.

DIY toilet paper roll butterfly cat toy decorated with colorful paper or felt

(31) Muffin Tin Puzzle (Treat Challenge!)

What You Need: Muffin tin, small toys or treats, ping pong balls or larger balls (that won’t fit in the cat’s mouth).

How to Make It:

  1. Place treats or small toys in some of the muffin tin cups.
  2. Cover some cups with the balls, leaving some open.

Why Cats Love It: They have to figure out how to move the balls to get to the treats.

Make sure balls are too large to swallow.

Muffin tin used as a cat puzzle, with treats hidden under ping pong balls in some of the cups

(32) Fabric Scrap Ribbon Wand (Textured Teaser!)

What you need: Wooden dowel, various fabric scraps (different textures and colors), scissors, strong glue (non-toxic) or needle and thread.

How To Make It

  1. Cut the fabric into long strips.
  2. Tie and/or glue or sew the strips to one end of the dowel.

Why Cats Love It: Various textures and colors.

Make sure fabric is secure.

DIY fabric scrap ribbon wand cat toy with various textures and colors of fabric strips attached to a dowel

(33) Paper Bag Tunnel (Crinkly Hideaway!)

What you need: Large paper grocery bag (remove any handles).

How to make it:

  1. Open the bag and lay it on its side.
  2. You could crumple the bag for crinkle sounds.

Why Cats Love It: Makes crinkly sounds and a hiding place.

Remove handles.

Cat inside a large, open paper grocery bag used as a tunnel toy

(34) Knotted Rope Toy (Chewing Champion!)

What you need: Thick, natural rope (sisal or cotton), scissors.

How to make it:

  1. Cut a length of rope.
  2. Tie several knots along the length of the rope.

Why Cats Love It: Great for chewing and tugging.

Use natural rope and check for fraying.

DIY knotted rope cat toy made from thick, natural rope with several knots tied along its length

(35) Catnip Tea Bag (Potent Pouch!)

What you need: Small muslin bag or cheesecloth, dried catnip.

How to Make It:

  1. Put catnip in the bag.
  2. Tie it up.

Why Cats Love It: Catnip overload!

Check catnip is safe.

Small muslin bag filled with dried catnip, securely tied, used as a cat toy

(36) Cardboard Tube Maze (Labyrinthine Fun!)

What you need: A Collection of Cardboard Tube, Large flat piece of cardboard, Hot Gun (or strong non-toxic glue).

How to make it:

  1. Arrange tubes on the base to make the maze.
  2. Glue tubes to the base and to each other.

Why Cat’s Love it: Extra stimulation.

Let glue dry completely.

DIY cardboard tube maze made from various cardboard tubes glued to a flat base

(37) Window Perch with Dangling Toys (Birdwatching Bonus!)

What You Need: Sturdy shelf or platform, suction cups or brackets (depending on window type), small toys, string.

How To make it:

  1. Attach the shelf to the window.
  2. Tie toys to the shelf so they hang down.

Why Cats Love It: View and entertainment.

Use a very stable platform.

Cat sitting on a window perch with dangling toys attached, looking out the window

(38) Felt and Feather Boa (Glamorous Play!)

What you need: Long piece of felt, feathers, hot glue gun (or strong fabric glue), scissors.

How to Make it:

  1. Cut the felt into a long strip (about 2-3 inches wide).
  2. Glue feathers along the length of the felt strip, overlapping them slightly.

Why Cats Love it: It’s like a giant feather wand!

Make sure feathers are secure. Use glue with caution and let dry completely.

Long DIY felt and feather boa cat toy, with feathers glued along the length of a felt strip

(39) Sock Snake (Wiggly Wrestler!)

What you need: Old socks, stuffing (cotton balls, fabric scraps, or old socks), needle and thread (or strong fabric glue), catnip (optional).

How to make it:

  1. Sew (or glue) socks together end-to-end to make a long snake.
  2. Stuff snake with stuffing and catnip (if using).
  3. Sew (or glue) final opening closed.

Why Cats Love it: It’s long and squishy to wrestle.

Sew or glue securely.

Long DIY sock snake cat toy made from multiple socks sewn together and stuffed

(40) DIY Agility Course (Feline Fitness!)

What you need: Household items (cardboard boxes, tunnels, chairs, blankets, hula hoops), treats.

How to Make It:

  1. Arrange items to make a course with obstacles for your cat to jump over, crawl through, and weave around.
  2. Use treats to lure your cat through the course.

Why Cats Love It: Physical and mental exercise.

Make sure all obstacles are stable.

Cat navigating a DIY agility course made from household items like cardboard boxes, tunnels, and chairs

(41) Kitten Sock Pouch (Tiny Treasure!)

What you need: Small soft sock; cotton balls or soft stuffing; catnip (optional for older kittens).

How to Make It:

  1. Gently stuff sock with cotton balls.
  2. Add a pinch of catnip if appropriate.
  3. Tie open end securely.

Why Kittens Love It: Easy to bat and the perfect size.

Use soft materials and make sure knot is secure.

A small kitten is playing with soft sock pouch

(42) Mini Cardboard Scratchers (Kitten Claws!)

What you need: Cardboard scraps, scissors or craft knife, non-toxic glue (optional).

How to Make It:

  1. Cut cardboard into small rectangles or squares.
  2. Stack and glue (optional) several layers together for thickness.

Why Kittens Love It: Introduces them to scratching on appropriate surfaces.

Make sure no sharp edges and glue (if used) is dry.

A kitten is scratching mini cardboard scratcher

(43) Soft Fabric Balls (Gentle Games!)

What you need: Soft fabric scraps (fleece, flannel), needle and thread, stuffing (cotton balls or fabric scraps).

How to Make It:

  1. Cut fabric into circles.
  2. Sew around edge of each circle, leaving a small opening.3. Turn right-side out.
  3. Tie open end.

Why Kittens Love It: Soft and easy to bat.

Use soft materials.

A kitten is playing with soft fabric ball

(44) Senior Cat Treat Tube (Easy Access!)

What you need: Toilet paper roll, scissors, soft treats.

How to Make It:

  1. Make small holes along the tube.
  2. Fold in one end, add treats, fold in the other end (not as securely as for younger cats).

Why Senior Cats Love It: Gentle mental stimulation without too much effort.

Make holes big enough for easy treat access.

A senior cat is trying to get the treats from the tube

(45) Soft Fleece Blanket with Hidden Treats (Cozy Foraging!)

What you need: Soft fleece blanket, soft treats.

How to make it:

  1. Lay the blanket flat.
  2. Scatter treats on the blanket.
  3. Loosely fold or scrunch the blanket, hiding the treats.

Why Senior Cats Love It: Comfortable foraging.

Use soft treats and supervise to make sure the cat doesn’t eat the blanket.

A cat finding the treats from the soft fleece blanket

(46) Easy-Access Scratching Pad (Senior Support!)

What you need: Flat piece of cardboard, sisal fabric or carpet remnant, non-toxic glue or double-sided tape.

How to Make It:

  1. Cut the cardboard to size.
  2. Attach the sisal or carpet to the cardboard with glue or tape.

Why Senior Cats Love It: Easy to reach and use scratching surface even with limited mobility.

Attach the scratching surface to the cardboard securely.

A senior cat is using the easy access scrathing pad

(47) Halloween Spider Web (Spooky Fun!)

What you need: Yarn, Scissors, Tape.

How to Make it:

  1. Make a basic web design with yarn.
  2. Tape to a wall or doorway at cat level.

Why Cats Love it: Seasonal fun.

Secure to the wall well.

A cat is playing with the spider web toy

(48) Christmas Tree Ornament Toy (Festive Feline!)

What you need: Felt (green, and other colors for decorations), Scissors, Needle and thread (or non-toxic fabric glue), Stuffing (cotton balls or fabric scraps), Catnip (optional), Ribbon or string.

How to Make It:

  1. Cut out two identical Christmas tree shapes from the green felt.
  2. Cut out small ornament shapes from other colors of felt.
  3. Sew or glue the ornaments to one of the tree pieces.4. Sew (or glue) together the two tree pieces, leaving a small gap.
  4. Stuff with stuffing and a pinch of catnip (if using).
  5. Sew (or glue) the gap closed.
  6. Add a loop of ribbon or string for hanging (optional – can also be a batting toy).

Why Cats Love It: Fun!

Make sure small bits are stuck down.

A cat is playing christmas tree ornament toy

(49) Turkey Leg (Gobble Gobble!)

What you need: Brown felt, needle and thread (or fabric glue), stuffing, catnip (optional)

How to Make It:

  1. Cut out two turkey leg shapes from the brown felt.
  2. Sew (or glue) the two pieces together, leaving a small opening.
  3. Stuff with stuffing and catnip (if using).
  4. Sew (or glue) the opening closed.

Why Cats Love It: Seasonal fun.

Make sure everything is secure.

A cat is playing with turkey leg toy

(50) Cardboard Hideaway (Small Space Solution!)

What you need: Medium-sized cardboard box, scissors, blanket or towel

How to make it:

  1. Cut a cat-sized entrance hole in one side of the box.
  2. Place the box on its side in a quiet corner.
  3. Line the inside with a soft blanket or towel.

Why Cats Love it: A space saving secure place.

Put the hideaway in a safe area.

A cat relaxing in the cardboard hideaway

(51) Wall-Mounted Sisal Scratcher (Space Saver!)

What You Need: Piece of wood (size depends on available wall space), sisal rope, strong adhesive (construction adhesive or heavy-duty double-sided tape), screws and wall anchors (if needed for extra security)

How to make it:

  1. Cut the wood to the desired size.
  2. Apply adhesive to the back of the wood.
  3. Wrap the sisal rope tightly around the wood, starting from one end and working your way to the other. Make sure the rope is tightly packed and there are no gaps.
  4. If using screws, secure the wood to the wall using appropriate wall anchors for your wall type.

Why Cats Love It: Provides a vertical scratching surface without taking up floor space.

Make sure the scratcher is securely mounted to the wall. Use appropriate anchors for your wall type.

A cat scratching on wall mounted scratcher

(52) Hanging Treat Ball (Swinging Snack!)

What you need: Plastic ball with holes (like a practice golf ball), string or twine, treats

How to Make It:

  1. Thread string through the holes of the ball.
  2. Add treats inside the ball.
  3. Hang the ball from a secure spot (doorknob, cat tree) at a height your cat can reach.

Why Cats Love It: Combines treat-seeking with batting and pouncing.

Supervise and make sure string is secure.

A cat trying to get the treats from the hanging ball

(53) Recycled Plastic Bottle Spinner

What you need: Empty plastic bottle (with lid), wooden dowel or sturdy stick, string, scissors or craft knife

How to Make it:

  1. Cut two holes opposite each other near the top of the bottle, and two more near the bottom.
  2. Thread the dowel through the top holes, and a shorter piece of string (or another, thinner dowel) through the bottom holes.
  3. Make sure the bottle can spin freely.
  4. Hang the toy. You can put treats or small toys inside the bottle.

Why Cat's love it: Adds a spin.

Make sure all edges are smooth and the toy is hung securely.

A cat is playing with plastic bottle spinner

(54) T-Shirt Braid Toy

What you need: Old T-shirts, Scissors.

How to Make it:

  1. Cut the T-shirt into long strips.
  2. Braid three strips together.
  3. Tie knots at both ends.

Why Cats Love It: Good for tugging.

Monitor for fraying and discard when worn.

A cat is playing with T-shirt braid

(55) Paper Roll Caterpillar

What you need: Toilet Paper rolls, String or Yarn, Scissors, Non-toxic markers (optional)

How to Make it:

  1. Decorate the toilet paper rolls with markers (optional).
  2. Poke a hole through the center of each roll.
  3. Thread the string through all the rolls, knotting between each one to create segments.
  4. Leave extra string at both ends for tying or playing.

Why Cats love it: A wiggly toy.

Make sure string is strong.

A cat is playing with paper roll caterpillar

FAQs: DIY Cat Toys

Q: Are homemade cat toys safe?

A: Yes, homemade cat toys can be very safe, provided you follow essential safety guidelines. Always use non-toxic materials, avoid small parts that could be swallowed, and supervise playtime. See our Safety First! section above for detailed guidelines.

Q: What materials are safe for cat toys?

A: Safe materials include cardboard, paper, cotton fabric, sisal rope, undyed wool, and felt. Avoid anything with small parts (buttons, beads), toxic chemicals, or long, loose strings.

Q: What are good homemade toys for cats?

A: This article provides 55+ ideas! Good homemade cat toys include toilet paper roll puzzles, cardboard scratchers, feather wands, and sock toys. See our sections above for Super-Fast Fun, Puzzle Power, Unleash the Hunter, and Scratch, Stretch, and Climb toys.

Q: What's the best fabric for cat toys?

A: Durable, natural fabrics like cotton, felt, and fleece are excellent choices. Avoid fabrics that fray easily or have loose fibers that could be ingested. For heavy chewers, consider using heavy-duty fabrics like those used for home decor.

Q: Can cats get bored of the same toys?

A: Yes, cats can get bored with the same toys, just like people! Rotate toys regularly to keep your cat engaged. Introduce new toys and put away old ones for a while to renew their interest.

Q: How do I clean DIY cat toys?

A: Many fabric toys can be hand-washed with mild soap and water. Rinse thoroughly and air dry. Cardboard toys can be wiped with a damp cloth. Replace catnip in toys periodically.

Q: How often should I replace DIY cat toys?

A: Inspect toys frequently for wear and tear. Discard any toys with loose parts, fraying fabric, or other damage to prevent your cat from ingesting anything harmful.

Q: Are yarn toys safe for cats?

A: Short pieces of yarn, securely attached to a toy and under supervision, can be okay. However, long strings or yarn can be a serious hazard if ingested, potentially causing intestinal blockage. Always supervise play with yarn toys.

Q: Are ping pong balls safe for cats?

A: Generally, yes, ping pong balls are safe for cats to bat around under supervision. However, ensure they are not cracked or broken, as small pieces could be ingested. They are used in our Catch The Ball Game.

Q: Can I let my cat play with cardboard?

A: Yes, cardboard is a great, safe material for DIY cat toys! Many cats love to scratch and chew on cardboard. Just make sure there are no staples, tape, or small pieces that could be swallowed. Supervise to ensure they aren't ingesting large amounts of cardboard.

Q: My cat ignores all toys! What do I do?

A: Try different types of toys (puzzles, wands, scratchers) to find what your cat prefers. Experiment with textures, sounds, and scents (like catnip, silvervine, or valerian root). Interactive play with you is often the most engaging!

Q: What can I fill cat toys with?

A: Catnip is a popular choice, but not all cats react to it. Other options include silvervine, valerian root, honeysuckle, cotton batting, fabric scraps, or even crumpled paper for a crinkling sound.

Q: Are hanging toys safe for cats?

A: Hanging toys can be safe, *but always supervise*. Ensure the toy is securely attached and the hanging cord is not too long, to prevent entanglement or strangulation. Our Hanging Doorway Toy is a good example.

Share Your Creations & Connect With Us!

I love seeing what cat lovers create! Share photos and videos of your DIY cat toys on social media and tag them #DIYCatToys – let’s inspire each other! Remember, the best gift you can give your cat is your time, attention, and a peaceful environment. Happy crafting!