We’re showing you how to make your own cat kicker toy using soft fabric and simple supplies you might already have at home. It’s ideal for cat lovers of all ages, a fun sewing craft for beginners, and a thoughtful handmade gift for your furry friend. Plus, you can customize the fabric for holidays or to match your cat’s personality!
Helpful Tips:
What’s the best fabric for DIY cat toys?
The best fabric for homemade cat toys is something durable yet soft, like fleece, denim, canvas, or cotton. Fleece is especially popular because it doesn’t fray, is easy to sew, and feels cozy for your cat to snuggle or kick.
What kind of stuffing is safe for a DIY cat toy?
Safe stuffing options include polyester fiberfill and cotton batting. Scraps of fabric can also work. Avoid anything with small parts (like beads or foam pellets) that could become a choking hazard if the toy gets torn open.
What’s the best size for a cat kicker toy?
A good size for a kicker toy is around 10 to 12 inches long — big enough for your cat to grip with their front paws and “bunny kick” with their back legs. You can adjust the length depending on the size of your cat or their favourite play style. For example, kittens and smaller cats may require a shorter toy.
How do I wash a homemade cat toy?
We recommend spot cleaning the toy with mild soap and warm water. If a deeper clean is needed, hand wash gently, wring it out carefully, and allow to air dry completely before giving it back to your cat. Keep in mind that catnip can lose its potency when wet and may become moldy if it doesn’t dry properly. For an extra refresh, you can open one end of the toy, remove the old stuffing, and wash just the fabric. Once it’s clean and dry, simply refill it with fresh stuffing and a new sprinkle of catnip before sewing it closed! There’s something extra special about crafting for your pets — especially when they get so much joy out of the final result! Whether your cat goes wild or just gives it a curious sniff, this handmade toy is sure to earn you a few purrs of approval. And the best part? You can personalize each toy with fun fabrics, refill them with fresh catnip when needed, and even make matching sets for multiple cats!
Here’s even more cat themed craft ideas:
Paper Roll Cat Salt Dough Cat Ornaments Cat Perler Beads
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