Keeping your pets entertained doesn't have to break the bank. Many household items can be repurposed into fun, stimulating toys that your furry friends will love. Plus, making them yourself adds a personal touch!
For Cats:
1. Toilet Paper Roll Puzzle Toy
What you need: Empty toilet paper rolls, treats.
How to make: Fold in the ends of a toilet paper roll to create a treat puzzle. Alternatively, cut small holes in the roll and place treats inside. Your cat will love batting it around to get the treats out.
2. Feather Wand Toy
What you need: A sturdy stick or dowel, string, feathers (cleaned), optional bells.
How to make: Tie the string securely to one end of the stick. Attach feathers and small bells to the other end of the string. This simple wand provides endless entertainment and satisfies your cat's prey drive.
3. Sock Catnip Toy
What you need: An old sock, catnip, stuffing (like old fabric scraps or cotton).
How to make: Fill the toe of the sock with catnip and stuffing. Tie a knot to secure it. You can make multiple knots to create smaller segments for your cat to chew and bat.
For Dogs:
1. T-Shirt Tug Toy
What you need: Old T-shirts or fleece fabric.
How to make: Cut the fabric into long strips. Braid three or more strips together, knotting the ends securely. This creates a durable tug toy perfect for games of fetch or tug-of-war.
2. Plastic Bottle Crunch Toy
What you need: An empty plastic water bottle, an old sock or fabric scrap.
How to make: Remove the cap and label from the plastic bottle. Place the bottle inside an old sock or wrap it with fabric and secure the ends. The crinkling sound of the bottle will intrigue your dog.
3. Muffin Tin Puzzle
What you need: A muffin tin, treats, tennis balls or other small toys.
How to make: Place a treat in some of the muffin tin holes. Cover each hole with a tennis ball or other small toy. Your dog will use its nose and paws to figure out how to get to the treats.