DIY Enrichment Toys For Your Cat

Why enrichment is important for cats

Enrichment is crucial for cats to help satisfy their physical, mental, and emotional needs, which improves their overall well-being. Here are several key reasons why enrichment is important for your feline friend:

• Enrichment prevents boredom and behavioral issues — Cats, especially those kept indoors, can become bored without proper stimulation. Boredom can lead to destructive behavior, such as scratching furniture, overgrooming, urinating outside the litter box, and aggression.
• Enrichment encourages natural instincts — Cats are natural hunters, and they may feel unfulfilled without opportunities to engage in hunting-like behaviors.
• Enrichment promotes physical exercise — Many cats, particularly those kept indoors, can become sedentary, which can lead to obesity and associated health issues, such as diabetes and joint problems. Enrichment toys, especially those that encourage cats to chase and climb, provide exercise and help maintain a healthy weight and muscle tone.
• Enrichment reduces stress and anxiety — Cats thrive in environments where they feel safe, and enrichment provides not only security but also entertainment. Cats, especially those in multi-cat households, who have access to hiding spots, climbing areas, and toys are typically less anxious.

DIY enrichment toys for cats

Here are some ideas for easy-to-make DIY enrichment cat toys.

Toilet paper roll puzzle

You likely have a few empty toilet paper rolls, which make excellent interactive toys.

What you need:

• Empty toilet paper rolls
• Scissors
• Cat treats

Instructions:

1. Fold the ends of the toilet paper roll to create a closed cylinder.
2. Cut a few small holes in the sides for treats to slip out.
3. Place a few cat treats inside the roll.
4. Let your cat bat the roll around to release the treats through the holes.

This toy stimulates your cat’s hunting instincts and encourages problem-solving.

Feather wand

Feather wands are a favorite for many cats, as they mimic the movements of birds. You can make your own with a few materials.

What you need:

• A wooden dowel or sturdy stick
• String
• Feathers (available at craft stores)

Instructions:

1. Tie one end of the string to the stick.
2. Securely attach the feathers to the other end of the string.
3. Wave the stick around for your cat to chase.

This toy promotes play and exercise, fulfilling your cat’s natural hunting instincts.

Cardboard box castle

Cats love to explore boxes, and you can turn an ordinary cardboard box into an entire playground.

What you need:

• Cardboard boxes of different sizes
• Tape
• Scissors

Instructions:

1. In different areas of the boxes, cut holes big enough for your cat to climb through.
2. Stack and tape the boxes together to form a multi-level structure.
3. Add toys, treats, or fabric pieces to encourage exploration.

A cardboard box castle will become your cat’s favorite hiding spot and climbing tower.

Sock and string toy

Old socks can be repurposed into a simple yet exciting toy.

What you need:

• An old sock (preferably washed)
• Catnip (optional)
• String or ribbon

Instructions:

1. Stuff the sock with soft material or catnip, if desired.
2. Tie the sock securely at the open end.
3. Attach a string or ribbon to the sock, and drag it along the floor for your cat to chase.

This toy mimics prey, and the sock’s texture combined with the movement stimulates your cat’s predatory instincts.

Tips for successful DIY cat toys

Here are tips to ensure your cat enjoys your homemade toys:

• Safety first — Always supervise your cat with new toys to ensure they don’t swallow small parts, strings, or ribbons.
• Rotate toys — Cats can get bored with toys, so keep things fresh by rotating different enrichment activities.
• Use catnip — If your cat enjoys catnip, adding the herb to toys can increase their interest.

DIY enrichment toys are a fantastic way to bond with your cat, engage their natural instincts, and keep them mentally and physically stimulated. Plus, they are a fun and inexpensive project for you.

Contact your AAHA-accredited veterinarian for other tips to keep your feline friend enriched and engaged.