We make different toys for the cat with our own hands: rope with a ball
One of the simplest toys for a kitten is a ball on a string. For these purposes, you can use any available means, for example, a ball of scrap yarn or crumpled foil. But a much stronger, more durable and aesthetically pleasing toy is best made from ropes. For these purposes, it is recommended to use jute, cord, paracord, twine and any other ropes. The thicker they are, the larger the ball will be.
From a long piece of the material used, we make a monkey fist knot according to the diagram below. We choose the most convenient method for ourselves. We try to tighten all the elements of the knot evenly so that the toy turns out neat and even. To add more volume and weight, you can place a small ball or ball inside the knot.
We cut the ends of the rope and tie them into a strong knot. We hang the structure on a door handle or the back of a chair. The toy with the ball is ready!
Paper is the most affordable material for making toys. Many in childhood folded bows from paper or candy wrappers and tied them to a string. Thick or laminated paper can be used to make much more durable and interesting fun for cats.
You will need paper of two colors: in our case, white and orange. The stronger the paper, the longer the toy will last. Instead of paper, you can use cardboard, oilcloth or thin plastic. Cut out 10 strips of each color, about 12 cm long and about 1.5 cm wide. Fold each piece in half.
We cut out two circles with a diameter of 2-3 cm from orange paper. Using a needle and strong thread, we pierce one circle and all the strips from one edge. The color of the blanks should alternate. We straighten the parts so that we get a figure in the form of a top or a spinning top. The strips should overlap. We secure the upper part of the toy using a second orange circle and a needle and thread. For reliability, we sew the workpiece several times, decorate the ends with large beads. We fasten a long rope on one side. The toy is ready! To make it even more interesting, you can sew a long tassel, feathers to it, or insert a bell inside.
It's no secret that cats love boxes. From unnecessary cardboard containers you can make a wide variety of toys for cat leisure. For example, if you have a short but wide box with a hinged lid, try making a real play center for your pets.
The box must not have dents, wrinkles or any other defects. It is advisable that it be made of durable cardboard that can support the weight of the animal. We pre-paint it on the outside or cover it with colored paper or film. Open the lid and apply markings on it in the form of a uniform grid with a step of 8-9 cm. At the intersections of the lines, draw holes using a compass, as shown in the photo below. Their diameter should be such that the cat can easily put his paw in there.
We put one or more toys in a box of such a size that they can roll freely inside the resulting base. This could be a small ball, crumpled up foil, a ping pong ball, or a plastic Kinder Surprise egg. Close the lid and call the cat. Many owners claim that this simple but interesting toy can captivate their furry pets for a long time.
You can make another cat fun out of the box. All you need is a sturdy shoebox and some round cardboard paper towel or napkin rolls. We insert the bushings tightly into the box, fastening them together for reliability using a stapler, glue or double-sided tape. A standard box fits approximately 14-16 small bushings. They can be pre-cut to suit the height of the base.
After all the bushings are secured, we make small holes in the corners of the box using an awl or scissors. We pass strong ropes or laces through them and tie the resulting structure to the legs of furniture or something stationary. To interest the cat, inside each sleeve we put a little dry food, rustling or shiny pieces of paper, small balls, bells or other toys. The animal will try to get the object of interest to it. The deeper the box, the longer the cat will be engaged in an exciting game.
Make it yourself
To make an interesting and beautiful toy for a cat, all you need to do is take bright yarn or fabric and various small things that you have around the house.
- For a wine cork, you can knit a case and tie threads with beads and buttons to it.
- Stuff an old glove with cotton wool and sew it on top - you’ll get a funny octopus.
- You need to tie a long thick thread to a wooden Chinese food stick or a pencil, at the end of which a bell, a paper pom-pom or multi-colored feathers will dangle. Such a toy requires the owner to participate in the fun.
- If you put a few coins or small pebbles in a plastic container from photographic film or Kinder Surprise, you will get an entertaining rattle. To decorate it, just knit a bright cover or cover it with a piece of beautiful fabric. Don't forget about the strings with beads. Such a soft toy will entertain the cat all day - it rolls and rattles well.
- Fun toys are made from toilet paper rolls. To do this, small holes are made in a cardboard cylinder, into which plastic drinking straws are then inserted. This “hedgehog” will not leave the cat indifferent.
- Puzzle toys are interesting not only for children; they are also suitable for cats. Several holes are cut into the lid of the cardboard box into which an animal's paw can fit. The structure is filled with balls and coils. The toy is ready - the pet will have fun trying to get objects out of the box.
How to crochet a cat ball
The balls are knitted very quickly and easily, this is a very simple # needlework. If you have minimal knowledge of crocheting and knitting, it will not be difficult for you to make a toy for your pet # with your own hands.
I spent a little over an hour of my personal time and leftover yarn on these two balls. Each ball consists of three stripes. For the smaller one I crocheted 20 chain stitches, for the larger one - 30.
The first and all subsequent rows are knitted with single crochets, but starting from the second row, the hook is threaded into the back wall of the loop. As a result, this gives a relief pattern similar to an English elastic band. For a small ball I knitted 7 rows, for a large one - 12. The height of small strips is 2.5 cm, large ones - 4.5.
Sew two strips into a ring:
We fill one of them with padding polyester. I hit it very tightly, so my balls bounce off the floor, but not high, about a meter.
Now, (for convenience I will name the colors) on the blue ring into which we have already inserted the padding polyester, put a white ring crosswise:
Well, our ball is almost ready. All that remains is to stretch a pink stripe through the visible areas of the blue ring:
Sew the edges and straighten the strips.
When I had a little more free time, I often went to “knitting” groups. It was in one of them that I came across these #knittedballs. They were invented for her cat by a resident of Japan, and since her # cat really approved of the toy, the woman posted the idea on the Internet, for which many human and feline thanks to her.
If you like this idea, here are some balls knitted on knitting needles. So get your leftover yarn ready, we’ll put it to good use.
Your pet probably loves to play, as all cats do. It’s very easy to make a toy for him with your own hands; for this you only need to have a cardboard box. A fun activity where the cat moves a treat or a ball to the exit hole is guaranteed to please him.
What's the use of it
There really are a lot of advantages to such an unusual toy. We'll deal with everyone. To put it very simply, a food puzzle is a food dispenser, that’s all. But…
Your pet will eat more slowly - and this is the key to his health and the foundation of longevity. And at the same time move a lot and invent ways to obtain food “hunting”.
By the way, zoologists agree that this type of nutrition is more correct than with free access to dry food.
- If your pet has problems with excess weight, this useful device will help reduce the amount of food eaten and ensure the burning of excess weight through greater physical activity.
- May help animals prone to vomiting from haste while eating. This toy feeder encourages leisurely eating of food or treats.
- It forces you not only to exert physical effort, but also trains your cat’s intelligence. A homemade food puzzle for a cat will make it more active, dexterous, and smarter.
The principle of operation is this: the cat needs to think and act on the toy in a certain way in order to get the treasured treat. Food puzzles perfectly develop logical thinking and the “hunter” instinct.
In the wild, it is unlikely that you will come across a bowl filled with mice. And with such a toy, a whole world of adventure is open to the cat.
Physical activity increases and a new hobby appears that will protect your curtains and sofa from an overly active animal. In addition, this is a great activity for those times when our cat is left to his own devices. For example, when it’s night outside or the owners leave and leave the animal alone.
Materials and tools
You need to prepare the cardboard box itself for work. It will be great if you choose a product that is not very thick, because otherwise the cat will not be able to reach the toy placed inside with its paw.
In addition to the long flat box, you need to find several more pieces of cardboard, from which you can subsequently cut out reinforcing strips. Prepare a ruler, pen, scissors and knife, glue and an object (such as a ball or treat).
Hole layout
Draw a line in the middle that will run along the length. Then measure several equal lengths along the edges.
Connect the transverse lines (connecting the points on the sides). You can draw one more line along both sides (parallel to the central one). Then the intersection points will be your future holes.
If you want to make a different pattern, don’t be afraid to limit yourself in your imagination.
The main thing is that you leave the middle intact (there should be no holes in it).
When all the points are marked, draw circles. The center of the circle will be at the points you marked. You can use a compass or round objects that suit your diameter for this purpose (for example, tape or a glass).
felted kitten
It is not very easy to master, which is why some people try to avoid working with it. But if you are not afraid to experiment with materials and want to bring a little creativity into your creative field, then you can definitely give it a try.
For beginners, we can recommend purchasing special kits for creating a cat with the main stages and a full description of all the steps. In this case, you won’t have to suffer much and fool around for a long time with making a new friend.
But if you want to take on something new and make a cat craft with your own hands without any kits, then all you need to do is purchase wool, a needle and beads that will serve as eyes.
First, try to make the animal yourself, but if nothing works, then you can always turn to art servers to find help among the professionals in your field.
Cutting holes
Now you need to cut out the holes. To do this, take a sharp knife, make a puncture, and then carefully pass it in a circle. If it is convenient to use scissors, do what is easier. Since the holes will most likely be small, you can use small scissors. Pay attention to the edges of your holes.
If they are sharp and uneven, sand them down so that the cat does not get hurt. A great idea would be to paint the box in a color that matches the interior of your room. Firstly, it will be more attractive (no one will even guess that you made the toy yourself), and secondly, you will paint the edges, and they will become smooth and safe for your pet.
Why do pets need toys?
Finding itself in an unfamiliar place away from its brothers and mother, the kitten initially experiences stress. And then, gradually getting used to it, he begins to feel bored, because before he was surrounded by the same kittens and they certainly weren’t bored there. But cat games not only relieve pets from boredom, but are also educational in nature. Why do kittens need games and toys?
There are several important reasons for this:
- Games develop in cats the skills they need to live. Kittens get a lot of positive emotions during games, because this is an imitation of their hunting life and the pursuit of prey. Play is a physical exercise that is good for their health.
- A bored pet means damage to your property. A kitten is like a small child; if it is not occupied with play, it will damage the wallpaper or furniture. Spending time with a toy will help animals release their energy, which will allow several cats to coexist quite peacefully in the same apartment. This brings the owner closer to the pet and helps the animal realize who its owner is and feel love for itself.
- So, cat games contribute to the development of cats both physically and psychologically. They allow kittens to develop harmoniously and make life easier for their owners. That is why, along with purchasing a kitten, you need to immediately worry about buying toys for it. But if finances do not allow you to do this, then you can make or find a toy for your pet yourself.
Strengthening
If you leave the box without reinforcement, there is a risk that your cat will simply fall through and ruin the toy you made. Not every cardboard, especially one with holes, can support the weight of a pet. Therefore, you need to cut out several strips of cardboard. Their length will correspond to the length of the box, and their width will correspond to its height. After cutting out the strips, glue them together and wait until they dry completely. If you have very strong cardboard that is guaranteed to survive the weight of your pet, one strip will be enough.
Check if it fits easily vertically in the center of the box (you marked the middle longitudinal line there). Then apply glue to the edges of the strips on one side and the other, insert them into the box and wait until completely dry. Don't be afraid to smear the glue, because after drying it will be safe for the cat, and no one will see the inside of the toy.
Organization of leisure time with minimal expenses
As you can see, the choice of toys for furry pets is truly huge, and it is impossible to single out one universal entertainment among the variety presented. Each game is interesting in its own way and is in a separate price category.
If you want to save money, then it is quite possible to make toys for cats yourself.
Pompon
In order to make a simple teaser you need:
- take a piece of any fabric and cut it into strips of the same length and width - we take arbitrary sizes, for example, 1X10 cm;
- we tie the fabric strips into a bundle, fold them in half and tie them in the center with a strong thread or lace;
- Using scissors, we cut the strips at the bend and evenly distribute the resulting tail.
All that remains is to tie the finished pompom with a cord to the pointer
Scented toy
The simplest in this case will be the cube shape (pattern and result in the photo below), but you can use any other pattern that you have. Let's get started:
- transfer the silhouette to the fabric and cut it out;
- fold the future cube with the front parts inward and sew it together, leaving a couple of centimeters unsewn in one of the corners;
- turn the toy inside out, stuff it with any rustling material, for example, plastic bags, and place a sprig of catnip inside;
- We carefully sew the hole left with hidden stitches.
The most attractive toys for cats are felt and wool toys.
Labyrinth
Homemade toys for cats can also be interactive. We suggest making a labyrinth from plastic plumbing pipes:
- we take four water pipes and connect them together so that the result is a closed structure;
- Using a special drill, we make one or two small holes in each knee;
- we process the edges of each hole so that the pet does not get hurt, and throw a rattling ball into the maze.
A homemade labyrinth made from plastic pipes helps you save a lot of money and brings great pleasure to your pet.
Paper toys
How to make a paper cat toy? Very simple. There are several options:
The most accessible is a paper wad; crumple a sheet of paper and throw it to a bored animal
This may seem too simple, but when the cat is trying with all its might to attract you to play at the most inopportune moment, this toy can instantly switch its attention to itself. Cardboard house - take a cardboard box (preferably several) and make several windows in it for the cat to crawl through. If there are several boxes, then they can be placed on top of each other or in a row, having first removed the bottom
This homemade paper tunnel can be quite entertaining.
And in conclusion, we suggest watching a video that will tell you how to make a toy for a cat in the shape of a mouse.
Preparing for the game
Now all that remains is to place a toy in the form of a ball or an easily rolling object in a cardboard box, close it on one side and leave the other open (there is an option to open both sides, this will be easier for the pet, and then make it more difficult by closing one of them). If you put a treat in a box, your cat will probably be able to smell it and take the initiative to get it. If it's just a ball, "introduce" it to your cat (let him sniff it or sprinkle it with cat mint). Teach him how to use a puzzle, it will be an enjoyable pastime for him.
Rope ball
Types of feeders
So far I have met:
- Full feeders of various designs.
- Food puzzles.
- Movable treat dispenser toys.
Feeders are usually made of plastic. They need to be cared for like regular dishes - rinsed under water. Some of them are dishwasher safe.
Bowl NORTHMATE Catch (Denmark)
Perhaps the most famous and sensational. It is made of bright purple plastic in the form of spikes-blades of grass, between which food is scattered. The cat will have to make a lot of effort to get tasty pieces.
It is also possible to use wet food.
Puzzle feeder CATIT DESIGN SENSES FOOD MAZE (Germany)
It is a three-story structure with plastic holes. By sticking its paws into sufficiently wide holes, the cat will be able to take out the kibble, or push them to the through hole in the middle - thus, the food will fall into the wide base of the cup and will be eaten with excitement.
The feeder has an anti-slip rubber mat and is dishwasher safe.
Tunnel feeder TRIXIE (Germany)
It consists of a capacious bowl located on a wide base with rubberized legs, from which wide tubes extend. The thermoplastic material of the toy is odorless and absolutely safe.
The food is poured into the bowl and closed with a tight lid. While exploring the structure, the cat will stick its paws into the pipes, trying to get to the prey.
Educational toy for cats 5 in 1 Trixie Fun Board (Germany)
A real gaming complex that will turn your cat into a genius. It's a joke, of course, but she really looks amazing. A wide platform made of safe, high-quality plastic is divided into zones. There is a labyrinth, small open containers, and a tunnel on it. Your pet fat lady will have to really use her brains to get herself delicious crackers or treats.
The toy does not have sharp corners, so it is suitable even for kids. Easy to clean under running water with a little detergent or in the dishwasher.
Interactive dispensing toy FUNKITTY TWIST 'N TREAT (USA)
It has two twisting parts with a hole for the “filling” in the middle - like a sandwich. Dry food is poured inside, you can adjust the hole as you wish. The toy is suitable for both kittens and adult couch potatoes.
The toy has no sharp corners and is absolutely safe, suitable for washing in the dishwasher.
Dispenser ball CATIT TREAT BALL (Germany)
A universal and very simple toy in the form of a small translucent ball. You can pour food inside - then your pet will receive a reward for its exercises, or you can pour in rice, coins or peas and close the hole, then the ball will just be a noisy and fun toy.
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How to make balls from ropes.
What you will need to implement the idea: a medical fingertip (you can also use a balloon, but it is important to realize that when inflated it turns out to be pear-shaped, and the fingertip is round); PVA glue; glue moment (preferably transparent); twine (you can use thick woolen threads, but twine looks more interesting); scissors; small deep container.
1. Inflate a balloon or fingertip (depending on the final shape of the product you want to get, let’s repeat the balloon - a more elongated shape, the fingertip - rounded), tie it so that it doesn’t deflate. Cover it with a layer of PVA glue.
2. Measure out the required amount of twine and cut it.
3. Pour PVA glue into a previously prepared deep container, into which we immerse the twine. Leave for complete impregnation for 5-15 minutes, more is possible.
4. Take the inflated balloon and randomly wrap it with glue-soaked twine. According to this scheme, we prepare the required number of balls.
5. Leave the twine balls to dry (this process may take 8-10 hours).
6. When the twine balls are completely dry, you can deflate the balloon, untie the knot, or simply pierce it with a needle.
7. If rope balls will serve as Christmas tree decorations, then glue a pendant hat to the product, into which we thread a fishing line, thin ribbon or chain.
How you can decorate rope balls:
- Rhinestones (glue them to the surface of the product using adhesive gel). Rhinestones can be placed exclusively on the end part, or they can be used to cover the entire surface of the product. And if you get creative, you can stick a few rhinestones to the inside of the ball. Holographic rhinestones look quite unusual.
- Beads (glue with transparent glue). You can do the same with beads as with rhinestones. Golden-colored beads are suitable.
- Sequins. Star-shaped sequins will look great.
- Balls made of twine can be painted with spray paint; paints with shimmering particles look great; take a closer look at shades of chrome or gold. In addition, red balls will look great on the New Year tree.
- You can make small Santa Claus caps from red paper and padding polyester, which you then glue to the surface of the product in question. The manufacturing scheme for such caps is presented below:
- You can also decorate the balls with small, neat bows. How to make miniature and perfect bows using a fork, see below:
- In addition, you can tie a ribbon that matches the tone, fasten a chain or a string of beads.
Felt cat
To create a figurine of a four-legged friend, prepare the following items needed for work:
- Felt;
- Scissors;
- Threads of different colors;
- Glue;
- Filler (you can use synthetic winterizer);
- Paper and a simple pencil;
- Beads and parts of old toys for decoration.
Let's get started:
Draw the outline of the cat on paper, then transfer it to felt. For greater convenience, you can connect the fabric to the paper using pins.
Make two sides of the animal and cut out its outline from felt.
Mark the eyes, nose and mouth on the cat's face. Start creating them: for example, you can use buttons or parts of old toys as eyes; you can embroider a nose and mouth with colored threads. It is worth noting that the use of threads of different colors makes the craft even more creative and vibrant.
Decorate the toy as desired: you can use ribbons to make a scarf, bow or tie. The craft is ready.
Examples of rope balls.
Such balls look simply great suspended, as well as placed in transparent vases or flowerpots. Below you can see examples of a variety of rope balls.
DIY twine balls.
From the video you will learn how to make a vase from threads:
An addition to the family is a wonderful event, and it doesn’t matter who we’re talking about. However, with the arrival of a new little member of the household comes worries, because he has to devote a lot of time. Tiny predators - kittens - are especially restless and can make almost anything that catches their eye into a playground. Such “unbridled” fun of a small creature often ends very badly for the home. So that the unreasonable mustachioed child does not get bored, but does not mock cables, wires, furniture, wallpaper and things, many owners make homemade toys for kittens. The advantage of this solution is minimal costs, because a target for cat hunting can be built from simple available materials.
A complex labyrinth made from improvised means
To take care of their pet, some owners buy comfortable carriers, clippers, closed trays, collars , and in order to entertain them, they build complex game labyrinths.
Although it will take more time to make such a toy for a cat with your own hands, you will only need available materials for it.
You can see ideas using egg containers, parts cut out of plastic bottles, yogurt cups and much more.
The cat found a toy tunnel
To create entertainment for the cat, take a sheet of plywood.
A labyrinth is created on it using glue, various sticks and planks.
Additionally, other elements listed above are also included.
The cat needs to figure out how to get around obstacles and get treats.
The role of toys in raising kittens
Everyone knows that cats, unlike dogs, are super-active “seasoned” predators for whom prey is vital. Active games are not only entertainment for them, it is an opportunity to develop hunting skills. Since owners are not able to deal with animals constantly, they shift these responsibilities to toys that help cats, cats and kittens:
- satisfy the constant craving for hunting;
- develop intellectual abilities;
- calm down (for hyperactive household members);
- don’t get fat (loungers and those for whom food always comes first);
- survive the painful hours of loneliness when no one is home;
- do not quarrel among themselves, finding out who is in charge in the house;
- strengthen close, “friendly relationships” with the owners;
- do not turn into aggressors and furry “vandals”;
- stay in good physical shape.
Toys are especially important for tiny kittens, suddenly torn away from their mother and a large noisy family - from brothers and sisters. Children, suddenly left in terrible solitude, experience considerable stress, and it is extremely difficult for them to adapt to a new unfamiliar environment. And new friends-victims - toys - help in this trouble. The more of them, the more fun the company becomes, because one single toy will quickly get boring, and the kitten will again find itself in the “abyss of depression.”
Toys for the growing furry (or hairless) generation are not only fun. They are a way of getting to know the environment. Kittens sharpen their claws on them, use them to remove plaque, massage the gums, and this procedure is especially important during the period (3-4 months) when painful teeth change.
It is clear that it is extremely difficult to do without such a life-saving attribute, but not all animals like purchased products. Therefore, homemade toys for kittens are a completely logical solution, because the “victim”, made from scrap materials, smells wonderful - like a home that has become home.
The most dangerous toys for cats
Toys for cats, first of all, must be safe. A cat’s tongue is designed in such a way that everything that gets into its mouth and gets caught on the keratinized papillae will definitely go to the stomach. Then, at best, the animal will vomit or the object will come out on the other side without consequences, and at worst - surgery or even death.
On the cat's tongue there are keratinized papillae that are curved inward.
In first place in terms of danger is New Year's tinsel and rain. This also includes other foil items, for example, twisted balls. These objects not only get into the gastrointestinal tract, but with sharp edges they can injure it, which most often leads to the death of the animal from internal bleeding.
Small objects in toys are also unacceptable, as they can be chewed off and swallowed. This applies to both purchased toys and those made independently.
Toys containing small and especially sharp parts should not be given to cats.
Hanging toys, especially those with elastic bands, pose considerable danger. Do not buy these under any circumstances. Cats, especially kittens, get entangled in them - with their necks, paws, tails. At the same time, the elastic band also compresses. It’s good if you are nearby and have time to help. If you really want to make a hanging toy, string the string through some kind of tube, for example, a wide cocktail straw.
Requirements for toys for babies
Kittens are children who like everything that is small in size and also light in weight. If it is bright, rolls on the floor, and can also rustle, then this is the ultimate dream. If we talk about toys, then the potential “prey” will be of interest to hunters if the owners take into account all the important recommendations:
- materials for production must be safe, not have an unpleasant odor or too toxic color;
- too small a size is a contraindication, because a tiny object “in a fit of passion” can be swallowed or choked on;
- small decorative elements - beads, beads, sequins and similar miniature decorations - are prohibited, they are too easy to bite off, and even easier - to eat them unnoticed;
- heavy or hard toys for kittens are unsuitable products: the former will be difficult to move, “thanks to” the latter it is very easy to lose teeth;
- Any item should be easy to wash.
The owners can only guess about the preferences of a small kitten that recently appeared in the house. To understand what he will like, it is advised to make several toys at once, and then see if favorites appear among them. If a positive answer is received, then space for further activity has been found: you can begin to “create” other similar “interesting things”.
Possible "toy" materials
Almost anything can be fun and prey for cats. The items used are boiled chicken drumsticks, freed from meat, cocktail tubes, pencils, markers and pens, light balls rolled from paper and/or foil. The last leaf is much more attractive as it is shiny, but they say that it is not the best option for babies. Walnuts, pine or fir cones, plastic bottle caps, checkers and chess pieces are used as toys.
A ready-made magnet item for a kitten and an adult is a candy in a candy wrapper that shimmers with all the colors of the rainbow. The semi-finished product is a wine cork, it is tied, or a cylinder-case is sewn for it. Almost everything that can be found in the house is used for production. For example, to create a toy they often take:
- bobbins left over from threads: both cardboard and wooden;
- paper product sleeves;
- cardboard, craft paper;
- bags-covers for washing;
- table tennis balls;
- plastic cups;
- tailor's tape;
- hair bands.
Not all candidates are equally good and safe for kittens, therefore, when choosing material for a toy, you need to take into account the small age of the tailed “child” and assess the potential threat to him in advance. Cats do not like synthetic materials that can unexpectedly provoke allergic reactions: both in adult creatures and in tiny “children”. Therefore, it is better to opt for natural things.
Mouse is a number one hit
There is no need to even mention how popular this couple is - a cat and a mouse, so such a toy is an almost obligatory accessory. If the housewife knows how and loves to knit, then a rodent can be knitted, but products made from thick textiles are no less attractive to kittens and cats. The range of candidates for the role of a mouse is large. This:
- drape;
- suede (artificial);
- fur;
- felt;
- fleece
In addition to the fabric, you need to prepare:
- sewing supplies;
- holofiber, cotton wool or foam rubber; their replacement is leftover yarn.
The operation will not take much effort or much time.
- First, a triangle is cut out from the selected material, then its two sides are sewn together.
- One or more fillers are tightly stuffed into the resulting bag. The edge is basted, then the seam is pulled together and the thread is tied.
- Ears and a tail are cut out of the fabric, and these elements are sewn on very securely.
It is better to draw the eyes of the mouse, since the sewn beads will become a big threat to the baby. They can be replaced with small buttons, but only if it will be very difficult for the “naturalist” to get to the threads holding them in place.
A soft toy can be more than just a mouse, although ears and a tail make for an exciting journey through the rooms with the prey. With the same success they sew fish, birds, tigers or piglets. Small balls sewn together and yarn are used to make insects with legs, such as caterpillars.
Mouse on an elastic band
Mice are the most favorite toys for kittens. It's easy to make them with your own hands. The main thing is to show a little imagination.
To work, take a small piece of fabric. It can be anything: a scrap, a piece of an old T-shirt or even a sock
The cat doesn't care what it's made of. We cut out a blank from it, which after stitching will look like a mouse
Outwardly, it resembles a drop.
We sew a nose and eyes from beads or small buttons onto the muzzle. We stuff the blank with cotton wool and sew on the tail.
This is a very important part of the toy, since its movements will attract the kitten's attention. It is better if you use a small piece of natural or faux fur as a tail.
Feathers are perfect. But you can also take a ribbon.
We attach a thread and an elastic band to the back of the resulting mouse. This is necessary so that the toy “runs away” from the kitten when he drags it far away. The entire structure can be attached to a small stick. This is extremely important if children play with the cat. After all, during wild fun, kittens tend to let out their claws, and they can accidentally injure the one next to them. And the wand will protect you from danger.
Loud rattle toy
This is another elementary, but wonderful option for entertaining baby feline predators. However, for this toy it is important that the noise does not frighten the small pet, so it is not recommended to use elements that are too noisy.
To create such a rattle, you need a minimum set of materials and tools:
- a round container left over from an eaten “surprise for kinders” (replacement is a plastic medicine jar);
- gelatin capsules (for example, with fish oil or vitamins);
- or a louder replacement for them - cereals, peas;
- scissors;
- scotch.
The process of making such a rattle is incredibly simple:
- A small amount of capsules or cereal is placed in the container.
- The product is snapped into place, and for reliability it is wrapped with tape.
A more practical rattle is obtained if several containers are connected together at once: such a toy is more difficult to drive under furniture. You can make a cover for it: either knit it or sew it from thick fabric. Another way is to apply glue and then wrap it with sisal. In this case, the kitten will have an almost universal scratching post toy.
Mouse on a spring
Here is another interesting toy for a kitten. It’s not difficult to build it with your own hands if you have a small wooden base and a spring in your house. You can also do the latter yourself by winding the wire around the rod and stretching it a little.
We described earlier how to make a mouse. Only in this case the toy is attached not to the back, but to the stomach. It is best to sew the mouse to the spring, but in addition we also glue this place with reliable glue.
We cover the base with decorative twine or cover it with thick fabric such as denim. We attach a spring with a mouse in the center. Here you also need to take care of a strong fixation, since during the game the kitten can easily tear the spring out of the base.
Place the finished toy in the room and watch how the pet begins to actively hit the mouse with its paw, which will swing in different directions.
Scented toy is not for everyone
Making such a tasty-smelling toy is a good chance to arouse the kitten’s interest in a new item. In this case, it is enough to have at home:
- sewing supplies;
- small pieces of relatively dense fabric (linen, cotton);
- polyethylene, “able” to rustle;
- dried catnip (catnip);
- decorative elements - ribbons, pompoms, cords.
First, make a drawing of the future bag (square, rectangle, oval).
- The pattern is transferred to the fabric, then a sachet is cut out from it, leaving seam allowances: 2 parts are cut out, they must be absolutely identical.
- The blanks are placed face to face, stitched manually or on a sewing machine, and a small hole is left.
- After turning the product inside out, pieces of polyethylene and catnip are placed in it, and the hole is sewn up.
- Decorate the toy at your discretion - with pompoms, ribbons or laces.
An easier way is to use finished products left without a pair as a bag - children's mittens or socks. In this case, you only need to tighten the open edge with a strong thread and tie it in a knot. The easiest option without sewing is a knot with grass; in this case, no manipulations other than tying are required at all.
It should be noted that there are some “wrong” creatures in the world from the family of feline predators. They don't react to this plant at all. If the owners “caught” such a kitten, then there is a high probability of completely ignoring this fragrant toy.
A teaser for playing in a group
Such toys, in which the owners take the same active part as the kittens, are liked by both: for people it is entertainment, for kids it is an opportunity to hunt for very difficult - resourceful - prey. To make such a craft, you need to get a stick that can bend. The ideal would be a fishing rod purchased in a store. In addition, you will need to prepare:
- electrical tape;
- a ribbon of any color: for example, blue for a gentleman, pink for a lady;
- a few feathers;
- construction knife;
- glue gun;
- lace.
This is one of the simplest options, so there are no difficulties on the way to the goal.
- First, the fishing rod is decorated: a ribbon is tightly wound around it. The excess is cut off with a knife. Fix the strips with electrical tape wound at regular intervals.
- Using a cord, make a bouquet of feathers; if desired, short strips of ribbon are glued to it.
- The cord with the teasers attached is glued to the stick.
This toy is good because it makes it quite easy to replace a frayed attachment, creating a new “stimulant” for the kitten. It can be a pompom made of knitwear or fleece, cut into small strips. They are folded, wrapped in the middle with a cord, and tightened tightly. The rope with the teaser is attached to the rod with the same glue.
An alternative to imperfect feathers would be the same mouse attached to a stick with a rope. Or a small ball of yarn with a well-fixed (threaded several times and then tied) thread.
Symbolism of cat and cat
Cats have always been assigned 2 opposite meanings, which were perfectly balanced within them. Like any symbolism in real life, in a dream or as a totem it can have different meanings.
Interactive cardboard and plastic games
A four-legged child can also be interested in other educational crafts. Such structures are made of wood, cardboard or plastic. In the latter case, plumbing pipes or elbows are used.
Plastic ring
To assemble an unusual toy for a kitten, you need to get and prepare:
- plumbing plastic elbows - 4 pieces;
- flexible plastic tube (diameter - 5 mm) for edging the holes;
- drill with attachment;
- electrical tape;
- glue;
- sharp knife, file, sandpaper;
- small tennis ping pong balls and/or treats.
The step-by-step creation of an interactive design looks like this:
- A ring is assembled from plumbing blanks: they first wrap electrical tape around their edges, then smear them with glue and connect them. Wait for it to dry completely.
- In the upper part, along the entire perimeter of the product, holes are drilled of such a diameter that the ball and, naturally, the paw of a kitten and an adult creature do not fit into it too freely, since the structure is made for growth.
- Their edges are processed with a knife or file, then with sandpaper. A thin tube is cut lengthwise, then glued along the perimeter of the holes and allowed to dry. Balls are placed in the finished ring and treats are poured in.
Having made such a simple design, the owners have the right to hope that for some time the stomping of a small animal and the noise from its toys will not be heard in the apartment, because everything new and unknown is always very attractive. Especially for creatures whose curiosity can be the subject of legends.
Cardboard house
This material is very popular, if we talk about “handmade” in general. Cardboard is available, can be found in almost any household, and it is quite easy to make various useful items from it. Even a simple open cat box automatically becomes a magnet—enough reason to explore. However, such a basic cardboard option will interest the kitten only for a short time. Therefore, it is better to choose other designs.
- A labyrinth of several boxes. It is much more attractive even for adult animals. In this case, as many boxes are glued together as the room can allow. Door (window) openings are cut out between them, box lids are removed so that you can quickly get out of the maze, or they are left in place, making life difficult for the pet.
- Large shoe box. This is also a simulator that, like a plumbing plastic ring, teaches intelligence. Round holes are cut out on all surfaces of this object into which you can insert your paw and then pull it out without difficulty. The lid is attached to the box with tape, and a small mouse, balls and favorite treats are placed inside.
Another convenient product that can serve as such an interactive toy is a food container. In this case, the hunter-kitten will see his “victims,” and this contact will become an incentive to quickly solve a difficult problem.
Cardboard sleeve platform
Such material for interactive toys can be found in every home, and besides, it is easy to accumulate. In this case, the main characters will be cardboard tubes from various rolls: toilet paper, paper towels, baking parchment or foil.
They are glued horizontally and vertically to a sheet of thick cardboard. Holes are made in the lying elements, and treats are simply poured into the second, standing elements, or small toys are hidden. By creating such a playground, we can hope that the restless kitten will find something to do for a long time.
Corrugated cardboard - raw material for toys
This method of creating crafts for kittens is also quite simple. Several identical circles are cut out of cardboard, and holes are then made in the center with an awl. The blanks are strung on a cord, and its ends are tied in knots. Using this technique, you can make various figures: for example, the popular and beloved mouse by kittens.
Almost every owner who carefully studies the habits and preferences of his inquisitive pet will be able to come up with his own signature version on the theme “Homemade toys for kittens.” Knowing all the “weaknesses” of a furry pet, it is easier to make a toy that he will not abandon after a short period of time.
It is customary to share ideas with others, which many “inventors” do with pleasure. You can get to know some of the recipes closely by watching the following fascinating video: