![A gray domestic medium hair cat sleeping on a hardwood floor with its paw hugging a cylindrical cloth toy.](https://www.barkleyandpaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/MontavillaSewingCenters-335771-Cat-Sleeping-Toy-image1.jpg)
Looking for a fun way to show your feline friend some extra love? If you’re an artsy person, we have some fantastic ideas for you! Here are some adorable DIY projects you can make for your cat.
Box Tunnel
Cats and boxes are an iconic love story. With just a few cardboard boxes, you can create an exciting tunnel system for your cat to explore.
Cut entry and exit holes into several boxes, then connect them with tape. Add a little flair by cutting windows or attaching dangling strings and feathers inside for extra stimulation.
The best part? It costs almost nothing to make. Plus, it’s just one of many different cat toys you can make with cardboard boxes, so the fun doesn’t end with tunnels!
Sewed Catnip Toy
If your cat goes wild for catnip, sewing a simple toy is the perfect gift. Use an old fabric scrap or felt to create a small pouch or shape. Stuff it with cotton and a generous pinch of catnip before sewing it shut. If you want to make something a bit larger, you might get started in quilting by stitching together a flat, square mat filled with catnip. This homemade treasure satisfies your cat’s hunting instincts and provides them with hours of playful entertainment.
Collar Embellishments
Why should a cat collar be boring? Add a little artsy pizzazz! Using nontoxic fabric glue, attach bows, tiny bells, or decorative buttons to your cat’s collar. You can also wrap colorful fabric or ribbon around the collar for a quick, removable upgrade. Just make sure nothing dangles too long or irritates your cat’s neck. This is a fashionable and functional project your kitty can wear proudly.
Kitty Puzzle
Puzzles make playtime more enriching. Create a simple cat puzzle by cutting various-sized holes into the lid of a sturdy shoebox. Place small treats or crinkly toys inside the box, sealing it with the lid. Your cat will enjoy batting at the objects through the holes, trying to fish them out. This activity stimulates your cat’s mind and keeps their paws busy.
Wall Jungle Gym
Bring vertical excitement to your cat’s life with a wall-mounted jungle gym. Install shelves at staggered heights on an empty wall, making sure your cat can jump safely between them. Cover the shelves with soft fabric or carpet for extra grip. Add a few rope-covered posts or hammocks for variety. A jungle gym provides enrichment for cats who love climbing and lounging high above the ground. It’s also perfect for small homes or apartments since it doesn’t take up floor space.
These DIY projects are fun to make and even more fun for your cat to play with and enjoy. Try one (or all!) of these projects today to see how much your cat loves their new handmade gifts!