DIY cat toys: 10 fun proposals to create and use cat toys cheaply

For cats, there is nothing more captivating than an empty box. You can buy expensive and elaborate scratching posts, wonderful toys and the most comfortable beds you can find for them, but none of these items trumps an empty box for a cat.

So, when you want to give your 4-legged friend a gift, the best route to go is with DIY: this will allow you to make really nice toys at almost no cost and your cat will be happy.

A few simple raw materials - often recycled - are enough to do these projects: boxes, old clothes, wooden crates, worn out carpets, radiator cleaners, toilet paper rolls, string and kibbles are all objects you can use.

We suggest below 10 fun, cheap projects you can do to treat your cat:

1. Box of bottle caps

A shoebox, string and bottle caps are all you need to create fun play box for your kitty. Very easy to make and customizable, this box will be like a playground for cats. Fun is guaranteed.

2. Scratching mat

A scratching mat is the perfect solution to stop your cats from scratching your furniture and sofas and you can easily make it for near-zero cost. Take a cardboard box and cut out 5cm wide strips. Roll these strips up very tightly until you get a shape of about 20-30 cm in diameter, which you will glue on a cardboard base; alternatively get yourself a robust lid (that of a shoe box is fine), cut strips of length equal to that of the lid and width equal to its depth and glue them with vinyl glue inside. Let dry under a weight and your scratching mat is ready to use!

3. Audible sounds toy

Creativo

Cats love anything that moves and makes noise; why not make an audible sound toy for them? A roll of toilet paper and some treats will be enough to keep them entertained for hours.

4. Treasure hunt box

Again using toilet paper rolls, you can make a treasure hunt box in which to hide kibbles, balls and small toys. Simply glue the toilet paper rolls to the inside of a cardboard box or wooden box and insert "treasure".

5. Scratching board

Transform your walls into structures equipped for the enjoyment of your cats with scratching boards. Get a wooden frame and glue an old carpet or a piece of thick upholstery inside it. Secure it to a wall at the right height for your cat to sharpen its claws while standing up on its hind legs.

6. Ribbon wand

If you want to have fun with your cat, you can make a very simple and cheap toy: get yourself a wooden or metal rod (like the ones used for curtains) and wrap one end with ribbons that are left hanging freely. Use this "wand" to play with your cat.

7. Cloth knots

Your old t-shirts are an excellent raw material for your cat: in addition to being the perfect cover for a comfortable bed, they can become entertaining toys if you cut them into strips and knot them.

8. Cuddle station

We all know how much cats love to rub themselves everywhere. So why not get them a cuddle station? You will only need a wooden board, a piece of thick fabric, upholstery or carpet to cover the base, a brush head (like those used to clean bottles, radiators or drains). Attach the brush to the base forming an arc and the cuddle station is ready.

9. Cloth toys

Old socks can have a wonderful new life with your cats. Fill them with cotton wool and secure them with a ribbon or a few stitches: your cats will chase these toys all over the house.

10. Scratching tree

Finally, if you like more ambitious projects, make a scratching tree for your furry friend. You will need wooden or plastic boxes, soft fabric, boards and small wooden and rope. Cover the boxes with rope or soft fabric and assemble the structure.

Which toy will you make first?