Easy DIY Enrichment Toys to Attach to Your Cat Tree

If your cat spends a lot of time on their cat tree, adding simple DIY enrichment toys can make their favorite spot even more engaging. Enrichment toys help keep cats mentally stimulated and physically active, reducing boredom and preventing destructive behaviors like scratching furniture or knocking over household items. The best part? You don’t need fancy supplies to make them—most projects use common household items. In this article, we’ll share easy DIY cat toys that pair perfectly with your cat tree, so you can keep your cat happy and occupied without breaking the bank.

1. Hanging Fabric Ribbon Toy

One of the simplest DIY toys to pair with a cat tree is a hanging fabric ribbon. All you need is a piece of soft, lightweight fabric or ribbon, about 1-2 feet long. Tie one end securely to the top of your cat tree or to a high perch, making sure it’s tight enough that it won’t come loose during play. The dangling ribbon will move with the slightest breeze or your cat’s movements, mimicking the motion of prey and encouraging your cat to bat, pounce, and climb. For extra fun, you can tie a small, lightweight toy like a bell or a crinkly ball to the end of the ribbon. Just be sure to use a sturdy knot and supervise playtime to prevent your cat from swallowing any small parts.

2. Cardboard Tube Treat Puzzle

Another easy project is a cardboard tube treat puzzle. Take a clean, empty toilet paper or paper towel roll and cut a few small holes in the sides. Fill the tube with a few of your cat’s favorite treats or a small amount of dry food, then fold the ends closed. Place the tube on a flat platform of your cat tree. Your cat will have to bat and roll the tube to get the treats out, providing mental stimulation and encouraging them to use their paws. You can also make a larger version using a paper towel roll or wrapping paper tube for more challenge.

3. Homemade Sock Catnip Toy

If you have a spare sock, you can make a quick catnip toy to hang on your cat tree. Fill the sock with a small amount of catnip and some crumpled tissue paper or old fabric scraps for texture. Tie the open end of the sock tightly with a piece of string or ribbon, then hang it from a perch on your cat tree. The crinkly texture and catnip scent will attract your cat, and they’ll love batting and rubbing against the toy. For safety, make sure the sock is securely tied so your cat can’t open it and ingest the contents.

4. DIY Pom-Pom Ball Toy

A third idea is a DIY pom-pom ball. Cut a few strips of soft yarn or fabric, then tie them together in the middle to form a fluffy ball. Trim the ends to make them even, then tie a string to the ball and hang it from your cat tree. The soft, bouncy ball is perfect for batting and chasing, and it’s gentle on your cat’s paws. You can make multiple pom-pom balls in different colors and hang them at different heights on your cat tree for added variety.

Important Safety Tips for Homemade Cat Toys

When making DIY cat toys, always prioritize safety. Avoid using materials that can easily break into small pieces, such as plastic bags, rubber bands, or thin string, which can pose a choking hazard. Never use toxic materials or household items that could be harmful if ingested. Always supervise your cat when they’re playing with new toys, and discard any toys that become worn or damaged.

Pairing these simple DIY toys with your cat tree is a great way to enhance your cat’s playtime and keep them entertained. For those who prefer ready-made options, our collection of cat toys and accessories is designed to work perfectly with our cat furniture.