How to Make an Interactive Kitten Toy: EASY Step by Step Guide
- Abi
- September 5, 2021
- 8:10 am
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Interactive kitten toys can be expensive; this cheap alternative will help keep your cat entertained for hours!
I remember a time when cats were happy playing with a piece of string. Nowadays, there are all sorts of electronic toys with moving parts that are interactive and designed to help your kitten develop her pouncing skills.
Homemade toys are just as good and a lot cheaper. I’ll show you how to turn a cardboard box into a fun toy for your kitten in this article. We’ll be using basic items that you probably have lying around your house.
If you have children getting them involved in making a toy for your kitten is a great way to help them bond with their new pet.
You Will Need:
- A small cardboard box
- A pair of scissors
- Pencil
- Tape
- A compass/ protractor or small circular object to draw around.
- A selection of kitten toys, such as a small ball or stuffed mouse
- Some cat or kitten treats (optional)
DIY Cardboard Interactive Kitten Toy: Step by Step Instructions
1. Draw at least six small circles on the top of your cardboard box. Ensure the circles are big enough that your kitten will be able to fit her paw through without it getting stuck.
2. Cut out the circles with a sharp pair of scissors. Check that there are no sharp edges that your kitten may hurt her paw on.
3. It’s also a nice idea to cut a hole on the side of your box. This will allow your kitten to push treats out of the box. Don’t make it too hard for your kitten to get the treats; she should be rewarded for all her hard work. You may like to cut a larger square hole on the side of the box so that your kitten can get the toys out.
4. Add some toys and treats to the box and then tape the sides up. Then give it to your kitten to play with.
Top Tip
If you have to leave your kitten home alone for a few hours, making an interactive toy will provide enrichment for your pet. Kittens love to play and will spend hours exploring their environment. Ensure your kitten has enough toys to play with while you’re out to stop her from getting up to no good.
DIY Carboard Cat House Ideas From Around the Web
Three story cardboard cat house
We’ve searched the web for some creative ideas. Here are some things to consider if you want to make your own cardboard cat house:
- Use sturdy cardboard boxes. Fruit boxes from the supermarket are perfect.
- Don’t build your house too high in case it topples over and injures your cat.
- The only limit is your imagination
Sardine Cat Hide Out
This cool cat sardine can house gives Ruby a safe place to hide when she’s stressed or wants to get away from the dog. It was made by Elly Gibson, a designer, artist, and writer, based in New York.
Visit instructables for the full instructions.
Cardboard Cat Igloo
This cardboard cat igloo provides cats with a safe and secure place to hide or take a nap. It also has a rough surface which is the perfect alternative to a scratching post.
Made by Miniil with the help of her cat Yoko. Check out Instructables if you want to make your own.
What to do next?
A simple cardboard box makes a great bed for your cat. Giving your cat a box to hide in can help to reduce stress.
If you’re looking for more creative ideas, check out our cat origami article which has step by step instructions that kids will love!
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