Cats are naturally playful and inquisitive animals. If you’ve ever dropped something on the floor, you know how quickly they run to bat it around. Empty paper bag? They’re eager to explore and squeeze inside. While you can buy plenty of fancy toys to keep your cat entertained, there are also many low-cost options you can create at home that work just as well.
An empty box. Cut a few holes in the box large enough for your cat’s paw to fit through, place some balls or treats inside, and watch them intently try to get the contents out.
Toilet paper tubes. Your cat can play with the empty tube just as it is, watching it roll across the floor and spin around. You can add more fun by sprinkling some catnip, treats, or a noisemaker inside and folding the ends closed. It is exciting for your cat to try to figure out how to get them out.
Plastic eggs. Do you have leftover plastic eggs from Easter? Add some dried beans or rice inside, seal them closed, and watch your cat go to town knocking them all around the floor.
Yarn. Dangle a piece of yarn in front of your cat’s face or slowly pull it across the floor and watch your pet go crazy pouncing on it. Hot glue some strand of yarn, pieces of ribbon, or feathers to the end of a dowel rod and create your own wand to engage your cat in active play.
Old T-shirts. Cut the shirt into strips and tie them into knots as an alternative to a traditional ball toy. You can tie some of the strands onto your homemade wand too. If you’re feeling extra crafty, sew a small pouch out of the t-shirt material and fill it with some cotton and a bit of catnip. Close it up and you have a handmade catnip toy.
Socks. Socks make the perfect vessel to hold catnip. Put a few cotton balls and catnip inside, knot it closed, and you have an instant toy. Your cat will be attracted to the smell, plus it is easy for them to clutch with their teeth or claws as they play.
Tin foil. Crumple a piece of tin foil into a ball and give your cat hours of entertainment. The foil is shiny, it makes interesting sounds on the floor, and it’s not perfectly round, so it bounces around when it rolls.
Flashlight. A penlight works well too. Shine a spot on the floor to catch your cat’s attention, then quickly move it somewhere else. Your cat will follow the light and try to pounce on it.
Spend time each day playing with your cat to keep them moving and mentally stimulated. It also helps to foster a bond between you and your pet, especially if they are shy or timid. Let your cat see you batting around a tin foil ball or cardboard tube, then move away to entice them to come out and explore it on their own.
If you’re headed out of town, board your cat at Lake Wylie Pet Resort so they continue to receive daily attention, affection, and play time, even while you’re gone. You can have peace of mind knowing that they are safe and in good hands. Contact us today to book your cat’s next stay!