Season’s Greetings! As you wrap up (or perhaps just begin) your holiday shopping, remember to grab something for your pet. There are plenty of alternatives for things you can buy in stores, but if you are the crafty type, you may also try your hand at making your own. Continue reading for some DIY toy recommendations from a local Burleson, TX vet.

DIY Dog Toys

Entertainment and excitement are essential for all animals, but they are especially critical for our canine friends. Playing not only keeps Fido active and moving, but it also prevents doggy boredom. That in turn reduces mischievous behavior such as digging, chewing, and chasing every squirrel in sight.

It’s crucial to understand that different toys serve distinct functions. Fido may want to snuggle with that teddy bear at night, but he may prefer his rope toy when he wants to play with you. A chew toy may fulfill his desire to nibble on objects, whilst a puzzle toy may keep him entertained while you are at work.

That being stated, let’s have a look at some of the options:

Canine Advent Calendar: This is a lovely way to let Fido enjoy the entire holiday season. You may make these calendars in a variety of ways. Wall calendars, small lunch packs, and packaged goodies are just a few examples. 

Rope Toy: This is an excellent way for you to upcycle a worn-out piece of clothing. You can use jeans, shirts, towels, and even pillowcases. Make sure there are no glitter or other embellishments. Cut anything into small strips. You can use a few pieces of different colors to create a good aesthetic, but to be honest, Fido won’t care what his toy looks like. Anyway, you’ll braid those strips together to create longer pieces. Then repeat with the longer pieces. When it reaches the appropriate thickness, tie it off in a large knot. You can also get creative with it! Include items such as tennis balls or delicious pumpkin jerky. Alternatively, explore with different shapes.

Muffin Fun: This one is also rather simple, however it may serve better as a distraction rather than a present. You will need numerous balls, a muffin tray, and some little treats or kibble. Place the goodies in random spaces in the muffin tin, then cover them with the balls. Fido will need to get the balls out to find where his treats are. Simply utilize balls that are a safe and acceptable size for your dog.

Snuffle Mats and Snuffle Balls: You can easily construct snuffle balls or mats. For a ball, you’d need one of those lattice-style balls that resemble a spherical frame with holes. Then get some kind of material. Fleece is a good choice. Cut your chosen material into thin strips. Next, wrap the strips around the bars of the ball frame. Continue until the entire object is covered. When it’s finished, insert little pieces of kibble into the knot pockets.

Homemade Cat Toys

Kitties are usually adorable, but they seem to be even cuter this time of year. (They do this on purpose to ensure that we forgive them for their traditional kitty holiday misbehavior, such as knocking over trees and pouncing on gift boxes.) Of course, our feline rulers are invaluable gifts who deserve a few special treats of their own.

Here are some purrfect possibilities for your cat:

Catnip Toys: Fluffy isn’t concerned with the shape of her catnip toys. Mice are the obvious choice here, but they are far from the only one. Begin by cutting two pieces of material to the same shape and size. Then place one on top of the other, with the outsides facing in. Sew them together, leaving a little opening. Use the aperture to draw the material through so that it is facing the correct direction. Then, use the same slot to insert catnip. You can use a little funnel or construct one from paper. When you’re finished, fill the hole and sew it closed.

Wand Toys: These are also fairly simple to build. Simply tie feathers and material strips together, then attach them to a string or stretchy cord and secure the other end to a rope. There are a couple safety concerns with this one. Never leave these toys out: store them between uses. Fluffy could become tangled up if she tries to use them when you are not there to rescue her.

Beds: If Fluffy could truly write out her wish list, it’s safe to assume beds would be on it. While our feline companions are not shy about making themselves at home on our laps, furniture, computers, and occasionally dishware, they do appreciate having suitable beds for all of their naps. You may create a simple bed using the same process we described for the catnip mouse, but with larger pieces of material and a different stuffing. You can even make them from sweaters. Trim and stitch the torso to an O shape. Next, sew the sleeves closed at the wrist. Next, stitch them to the body. Use the neck opening to fill the arms and body, then sew it shut.

Towers: Fluffy’s favorite piece of furniture is, without a doubt, her kitty tower. This is an excellent time of year to get one, as it may also help keep your cat out of the tree. You may use an old stepladder or bookcase for this. Alternatively, create one from scratch using lumber or PVC pipe.

Box Castle: After everyone has finished unwrapping their gifts, make your furry diva her own palace. This is also a great method to capture some adorable pet photos. make sure to remove any potentially dangerous items, such as ribbons, staples, or tape.

Of course, some of our feline friends would be delighted to entertain themselves by batting about a paper ball created from wrapping paper. That’s perfectly fine!

General Tips for Making DIY Pet Toys

Whatever you decide to build or buy for your pet, remember to prioritize safety. Never offer your pet anything small or sharp. Items with ropes or cords are also dangerous, as is anything with a protective coating, such as paint, dye, or varnish. Contact your Burleson, TX veterinarian for further information.

Book An Appointment At Our Burleson, TX Pet Hospital

Do you need to bring your pet in? Please contact us at any time. As your local Burleson, TX animal clinic, we are here to assist!