Meta: Simple, low-cost toys, with safety tips.
You can make safe toys at home with everyday items.
Ideas
- Cardboard tube treat toy (cats, small pets): fold the ends of a tube and put a few treats or hay inside.
- Cardboard box hideout (cats, rabbits, guinea pigs): cut an entrance and remove tape.
- Snuffle mat alternative (dogs): tie strips of fleece through a rubber mat with holes, and hide treats.
- Paper ball (cats): crumple plain paper into a ball.
- Foraging box (rodents): fill a small box with paper and hide treats.
How to use them
- Supervise your pet the first few times.
- Hide treats to encourage exploring.
- Replace when damaged or dirty.
Safety tips
- Avoid string, rubber bands, small parts, glue and staples.
- Never use plastic bags.
- Don’t use old socks with knots for dogs that swallow fabric.
- Choose non-toxic materials, and remove any tape or ink.
If your pet eats parts of a homemade toy, take it away.