In our previous article The Importance of Cat Enrichment: Keeping Your Feline Friend Happy & Healthy, we discussed common ideas for feline enrichment activities. But what if you’re looking to keep your cat entertained on a strict budget?
Well, we have great news! You don’t have to spend a fortune to keep your cat engaged and simple household items can easily be transformed into awe-inspiring sources of entertainment. Here are some of our favorite DIY ideas for cat enrichment:
DIY Puzzle Feeders & Treat Dispensers
Cats love to work for their food! Here are some easy homemade puzzle feeders:
- Toilet Paper Roll Treat Dispenser: Take an empty toilet paper roll, fold in one end, add some dry treats or kibble, then fold in the other end. Cut small holes in the sides so the treats occasionally fall out as your cat bats it around. This idea can also be executed using cardboard boxes — just be sure to cut holes large enough for their arms to fit!
- Egg Carton Puzzle Feeder: Place kibble or small treats in the sections of an empty egg carton. For an extra challenge, cover some sections with a lightweight object, like a ping pong ball or crumpled paper, so your cat has to work to access the food.
- Bottle Spin Feeder: Clean out a small plastic bottle, cut a few holes just big enough for kibble to fall through, and let your cat roll it around to release food.
Cardboard Creations: Tunnels, Mazes, & Hideouts
Cats love cozy hiding spots and obstacle courses. Try these simple cardboard projects:
- Tunnel System: Cut openings in both ends of a long cardboard box (or tape multiple boxes together) to create a fun tunnel for your cat to dash through. Cut peek-holes for extra engagement.
- Box Maze: Take several boxes of different sizes and tape them together to form a maze. Cut holes between them so your cat can weave through. Hide treats or toys inside for an exploration challenge.
- DIY Cat Cave: Take a medium-sized box, cut a round hole for an entrance, and line the inside with a soft blanket or T-shirt that smells like you. This makes a perfect cozy retreat.
Sensory Play & Foraging Fun
Just like humans, cats love to stimulate their senses! Try these easy ideas:
- Crinkle Ball Toys: Take foil or parchment paper, crumple it into a small ball, and roll it on the floor. Many cats love the sound and texture! You can even attach a string for added fun.
- Sock Fish Toy: Fill an old sock with a bit of catnip or silvervine, tie a knot at the end, and let your cat go wild kicking and batting it.
- Ice Cube Surprise: Freeze small treats or pieces of tuna in ice cubes and let your cat bat them around as they melt. (Best for warm weather or supervised play!)
- Scent Exploration: Rub different scents (like catnip, mint, or rosemary) on small pieces of fabric and place them around the room for your cat to investigate.
DIY Scratching & Climbing Structures
- Scratch Pad: Glue pieces of corrugated cardboard together and wrap them with sisal rope to create an affordable scratching surface.
- Window Hammock: Use strong suction cups and a fabric sling (or a repurposed sturdy shelf with a blanket) to create a window perch for bird-watching.
- DIY Climbing Wall: Mount wooden shelves at different heights on a wall, covering them with fabric or carpet for traction. Your cat can jump between levels like an indoor jungle gym.
Simple Hide-and-Seek & Play Games
- Treat Hunt: Hide small treats around the house for your cat to find. Start with easy-to-spot locations, then make it progressively harder.
- Peek-a-Paw Box: Cut holes in a closed cardboard box and place a toy inside. Your cat will reach in and try to grab it, engaging their hunting instincts.
- Towel Burrito: Roll up treats in a towel and let your cat unravel it to find the goodies inside. This mimics the problem-solving skills they’d use in the wild.
These DIY projects are easy, affordable, and great ways to provide entertainment while keeping your cat’s mind sharp. Experiment with different materials to see what your cat enjoys most!
