Cats love to play, and what better way to keep them entertained than with DIY cardboard toys? These simple yet fun crafts not only provide hours of amusement for your feline friend but also help you recycle old cardboard boxes. From castles to puzzles, there’s something for every cat to enjoy. Plus, making these toys can be a fun project for you too!
Key Takeaways
- DIY cardboard toys are a great way to entertain your cat and recycle old boxes.
- You can create a variety of toys, including playhouses, puzzles, and scratching posts.
- These projects range from simple to advanced, so there’s something for every skill level.
- Making these toys can be a fun and creative activity for cat owners.
- Your cat will love the new toys, and you’ll enjoy watching them play.
Purrfect Playhouses: Cardboard Cat Castles
Royal Residences: DIY Cardboard Cat House
Who says your cat can’t live in a castle? With just a few cardboard boxes, some glue, and a bit of creativity, you can create a majestic cardboard cat house fit for feline royalty. Start by gluing the boxes shut and cutting out doors and windows. Push the cutout pieces inward and secure them with glue. You can even add embellishments like craft paint, colored paper, and ribbon to make it extra special. Your cat will love having a new place to hang out and get wild.
Fortress of Feline-tude: Modern Cardboard Cat House
For the modern cat, a sleek and stylish cardboard house is a must. This design uses lightweight but rigid Kraft cardboard to create a sturdy structure that can withstand even the most overexcited cats. The key is to construct a super sturdy base and stack carefully cut cardboard pieces on top of each other. The taller, the better! Your cat will love sharpening their claws on this vertical masterpiece.
Tiny Towers: Easy Cardboard Cat House
If you’re looking for a quick and easy project, this tiny cardboard cat house is perfect. All you need is a cardboard box, a utility knife, and some glue. Cut out a door and a few windows, and you’re done! You can also add a cardboard sheet for the roof and decorate it with craft paint or colored paper. This simple yet creative design will provide your cat with hours of entertainment and a cozy place to relax.
Whisker-Twitching Whack-A-Mole
DIY Cardboard Whack-A-Mole
Ever seen a cat go wild for a game of whack-a-mole? If not, you’re in for a treat! This DIY cardboard whack-a-mole game is a purrfect way to keep your kitty entertained for hours. All you need is a cardboard box, some tongue depressors, and a few small toys or treats to hide inside. Cut a few holes in the top of the box, attach the toys to the tongue depressors, and let the fun begin! Your cat will love batting at the toys as they pop up and down through the holes.
Complex Whack-A-Mole: Advanced Edition
For those who want to take their DIY skills to the next level, the complex whack-a-mole game is a must-try. This version involves a bit more effort, but the results are well worth it. You’ll need a larger cardboard box, some sturdy sticks, and a few more advanced tools like a drill and glue gun. The idea is to create a more intricate system of levers and pulleys that will make the toys move in unpredictable ways, keeping your cat on its toes. It’s a bit more challenging to build, but the look of sheer joy on your cat’s face will make it all worthwhile.
Watching your cat play with a homemade whack-a-mole game is one of the most rewarding experiences for any cat parent. The excitement in their eyes and the way they pounce on the toys is simply priceless.
If you’re looking for more fun and engaging toys for your feline friend, check out CatsLuvUs for a wide range of options. From rechargeable electric cat toys to hide-and-seek kitten games, they have everything you need to keep your kitty happy and entertained.
Scratch That Itch: Upcycled Scratching Boxes
Simple Cardboard Entertainment Box
Let’s face it, cats love two things: cardboard and scratching. This project combines both, making it a win-win for your feline friend and the environment. Gather those Amazon boxes and get ready to create a simple yet effective scratching box. You’ll need some corrugated cardboard, a box cutter, and a bit of patience.
- Cut the cardboard into strips about 2 inches wide.
- Score the strips so they bend easily.
- Roll the strips tightly, gluing as you go.
- Keep adding strips until you reach the desired size.
This project is easy enough for kids to help with, and when your cat wears it out, you can just toss it in the recycling bin. No extra waste, just pure feline joy!
Upcycled Scratching Box: Eco-Friendly Fun
Why buy a scratching post when you can make one from stuff you already have? This eco-friendly project is perfect for those who want to reduce waste and keep their cats entertained. You’ll need a cardboard box lid, some adhesive shelf liner paper, and a lot of cardboard strips.
- Cut the cardboard into strips about 2 inches wide.
- Score the strips so they bend easily.
- Roll the strips tightly, gluing as you go.
- Place the rolled cardboard into the box lid.
- Cover the exterior with adhesive shelf liner paper for a polished look.
Not only is this project fun, but it’s also a great way to reuse materials you already have. Plus, your cat will love it!
Easy Round Cat Scratcher
This round cat scratcher is another fantastic way to reuse all those cardboard boxes lying around. First, cut several 2-inch strips of cardboard. Then, score the strips so they bend easily. Apply glue to one side and start rolling. Keep adding new strips until you reach the desired size.
While this project is simple, it does require a lot of cutting, making it less ideal for young crafters. However, the end result is worth it. Your cat will have a new favorite scratching spot, and you’ll have a fun project to show off.
Remember, the key to a happy cat is a good scratching post. And what’s better than one you made yourself?
For more cat-tastic DIY projects, check out CatsLuvUs.
Pawsome Puzzles: Brain Teasers for Cats
Huge Cardboard Cat Puzzle
Cats absolutely need mental stimulation to be their best selves. Cat puzzles “hide” food or treats, and your cat has to use their brains to discover a way to obtain their favorite snack. This incredibly creative puzzle is made entirely of old toilet paper or kitchen roll cores. You essentially use a basket or other round object as a base and then glue the rolls together (not to the basket). Your cat will love the challenge and the reward!
Cardboard Activity Box
Cut holes in the top of a disposable food container with a utility knife to make this cat puzzle toy. (The folks at The Glam Cat burnt the edges of the holes with a lighter to make it softer on kitty’s paws). Fill the container with items your cat will totally flip over, such as catnip toys, balls, and treats. Close the container and let kitty’s noggin do the rest.
Cardboard Quest: Treat-Filled Puzzle
Pro Tip: Use catnip strategically to enhance your cat’s interest in the toy.
Cardboard boxes and tubes can be repurposed into interactive cat puzzles. You can create tunnels, hiding spots, or puzzle feeders using cardboard. These provide both mental and physical stimulation for your cat and can be easily customized to suit your feline friend’s preferences.
Pro Tip: Add treats or kibble to the puzzle for a rewarding and engaging experience.
Junk Food Fun: Tasty-Looking Toys
Crinkle-Time Pompom
Who knew that a little bit of crinkle could bring so much joy? With just some yarn or t-shirt strips and crinkly plastic, you can create a cat magnet. Roll it up, toss it, and let the games begin! Your cat will be entertained for hours, batting and chasing this simple yet delightful toy.
Sock ‘n’ Catnip Surprise
Got an old sock lying around? Turn it into a catnip wonderland! Just grab a clean sock, stuff it with a sprinkle of catnip magic, tie it up, and watch the catnip craziness unfold. It’s a quick and easy way to keep your kitty busy and happy.
T-shirt Yarn Party
Transform an old t-shirt into a yarn ball that your cat will love. Simply cut the t-shirt into strips, roll them up, and you’ve got a fun and eco-friendly toy. Your cat will be swatting it around, scoring purrfect goals, and having a blast.
These DIY toys provide hours of fun for cats but they can be expensive. Check out these diy cat toys you can make to keep them busy.
For more ideas on how to keep your cat entertained, visit CatsLuvUs.
Hide and Sneak: Cardboard Hide-and-Seek
DIY Cardboard Hide-and-Seek Toy
Got a cardboard box and a pair of scissors? Then you’ve got everything you need to make one of the cheapest, most engaging cat toys around. As Mochi and Levi show on Instagram, this cardboard hide-and-seek toy will have your kitty entertained for a good chunk of time.
Peek-a-Boo Boxes: Endless Entertainment
Let’s make a prettified version of our under-bed hideaway. This time, instead of slicing off the top of your box, tape it shut (or shape it into a pitched roof, you crafty thing, you). Cut a circular or U-shaped door in the side with a box-cutter.
Ever tried playing hide-and-seek with your cat using just a cardboard box? It’s a fun and simple way to keep your feline friend entertained for hours. Want more tips and tricks for keeping your cat happy? Visit our website for more ideas!
Conclusion
Well, there you have it, folks! A whole bunch of purrfectly fun DIY cardboard toys to keep your feline friend entertained for hours. Whether your cat is a master of cardboard destruction or a gentle paw-patter, there’s something here for every kitty. So, grab those old boxes and get crafting! Your cat will be fur-ever grateful, and you’ll have a pawsome time making these toys. Remember, the best toys are made with love (and a little bit of catnip). Happy crafting, and may your home be filled with endless purrs and playful paws!
Frequently Asked Questions
What materials do I need for these DIY cat toys?
You mostly need cardboard, glue, scissors, and some basic household items like old socks or t-shirts. Specific projects might require extra items like yarn or bottle caps.
Are these toys safe for my cat?
Yes, these DIY toys are designed to be safe. However, always supervise your cat during playtime to ensure they don’t swallow small parts.
How long do these toys last?
It depends on how rough your cat is with them. Some toys might last a few weeks, while others could need replacing sooner. The good news is they are cheap and easy to make again.
Can I customize these toys?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with colors, shapes, and sizes. The more you personalize it, the more fun it can be for your cat.
What if my cat doesn’t like the toy?
Cats can be picky. If your cat doesn’t like one toy, try another type. Sometimes, adding a bit of catnip can make the toy more appealing.
How do I make sure my cat stays interested in these toys?
Rotate the toys every few days to keep things fresh and exciting. You can also hide treats inside some of the toys for added fun.