15 DIY Cardboard Cat Toys You Can Make Today
Cardboard is an inexpensive and versatile material that can be transformed into a variety of fun and engaging toys for your feline friend. Not only is it great for keeping your cat entertained, but it also provides an opportunity for creative DIY projects. Here’s a list of 15 easy and fun DIY cardboard cat toys that you can make today to delight your kitty and keep them active.
1. Cardboard Cat Tunnel
Materials
- Cardboard box
- Scissors or box cutter
- Tape or glue
Instructions
- Cut the cardboard box into a long rectangular shape.
- Roll it into a tube and secure the edges with tape or glue.
- Cut out holes on both ends to allow your cat to enter and exit.
- Decorate the outside with non-toxic paint or markers if desired.
Benefits
Provides a cozy hideaway and a great spot for your cat to play and nap.
2. Cardboard Box Puzzle
Materials
- Small cardboard boxes
- Scissors
- Treats
Instructions
- Cut small holes in different boxes that are just big enough for treats.
- Place treats inside the boxes and close them up.
- Stack or arrange the boxes to create a puzzle for your cat to solve.
Benefits
Encourages mental stimulation and problem-solving as your cat tries to get to the treats.
3. Cardboard Cat Scratcher
Materials
- Cardboard tubes (e.g., from paper towels or toilet paper rolls)
- Hot glue gun
Instructions
- Cut the cardboard tubes into various lengths.
- Stack and glue the tubes together in a circular or spiral pattern.
- Secure the base and let the glue dry completely.
Benefits
Provides a scratching surface to help keep your cat’s claws healthy and away from your furniture.
4. Cardboard Toy Ball
Materials
- Cardboard
- Scissors
- Tape
Instructions
- Cut the cardboard into strips.
- Roll the strips into a ball shape and secure with tape.
- You can also crumple the cardboard for a more lightweight ball.
Benefits
Perfect for batting around and chasing, simulating prey behavior.
5. Cardboard Cat House
Materials
- Large cardboard box
- Scissors or box cutter
- Tape or glue
Instructions
- Cut openings in the box to create an entrance and windows.
- Decorate the interior with additional cardboard scraps or fabric for comfort.
- Secure the structure with tape or glue.
Benefits
Creates a fun and cozy retreat for your cat to hide and play in.
6. Cardboard Fish Toy
Materials
- Cardboard
- Scissors
- Non-toxic paint (optional)
Instructions
- Cut the cardboard into the shape of a fish.
- Decorate with non-toxic paint or markers.
- Add some catnip to the inside of the toy for added interest.
Benefits
Provides an engaging and interactive toy that can be batted around and chewed.
7. Cardboard Ball Track
Materials
- Cardboard
- Scissors
- Tape or glue
Instructions
- Cut out circular tracks from the cardboard and create a track system.
- Stack the circles to form a multi-level track.
- Place a small ball or toy inside the track.
Benefits
Offers a fun challenge for your cat to chase the ball through the track.
8. Cardboard Treat Dispenser
Materials
- Cardboard box
- Scissors
- Treats
Instructions
- Cut small holes in the cardboard box, just big enough for treats to fall through.
- Place some treats inside and close the box.
- Your cat will have to roll or bat the box to get the treats out.
Benefits
Stimulates your cat’s foraging instincts and keeps them entertained.
9. Cardboard Cat Ladder
Materials
- Cardboard
- Scissors
- Tape or glue
Instructions
- Cut strips of cardboard to create ladder rungs.
- Glue or tape the rungs to two long pieces of cardboard for the sides.
- Secure the structure to a sturdy base.
Benefits
Provides a climbing structure that can be placed against furniture or walls.
10. Cardboard Pinwheel Toy
Materials
- Cardboard
- Scissors
- Glue or tape
Instructions
- Cut the cardboard into a square shape.
- Cut slits from each corner toward the center, then fold and glue the tips to the center.
- Attach a stick or a piece of string for the spinning motion.
Benefits
Creates a fun spinning toy that will captivate your cat’s attention.
11. Cardboard Maze
Materials
- Cardboard
- Scissors
- Tape or glue
Instructions
- Cut the cardboard into different shapes to create walls and pathways.
- Assemble the pieces into a maze-like structure.
- Add treats or toys inside the maze to encourage exploration.
Benefits
Provides mental stimulation and physical exercise as your cat navigates the maze.
12. Cardboard Catnip Toy
Materials
- Cardboard
- Scissors
- Catnip
Instructions
- Cut the cardboard into small, toy-sized shapes (e.g., rectangles or circles).
- Place a small amount of catnip between two pieces of cardboard and glue them together.
- Let it dry before giving it to your cat.
Benefits
Combines the allure of catnip with the texture of cardboard for interactive fun.
13. Cardboard Tunnel with Balls
Materials
- Cardboard box
- Scissors or box cutter
- Small balls
Instructions
- Cut the cardboard box into a tunnel shape by removing the sides and leaving the top and bottom.
- Place small balls or toys inside the tunnel.
- Decorate if desired.
Benefits
Encourages your cat to explore and chase balls within the tunnel.
14. Cardboard Box Maze
Materials
- Several small cardboard boxes
- Scissors
- Tape or glue
Instructions
- Cut doors and windows in the boxes to create passages.
- Arrange and tape the boxes together to form a maze.
- Add treats or toys inside to motivate your cat.
Benefits
Provides an engaging environment for play and exploration.
15. Cardboard Toy Box
Materials
- Cardboard box
- Scissors
- Tape or glue
Instructions
- Cut holes in the sides of a cardboard box, making them large enough for your cat to reach inside.
- Fill the box with various small toys and treats.
- Secure the box with tape or glue.
Benefits
Offers a variety of play options in a single toy box.
Conclusion
DIY cardboard cat toys are a fantastic way to keep your feline friend entertained without breaking the bank. These 15 ideas range from simple to more elaborate projects, each offering unique benefits and hours of fun for your cat. By using materials you already have at home, you can create engaging toys that stimulate your cat’s natural instincts and provide endless enjoyment. So gather your cardboard and get crafting—your cat will thank you!