Dog & Cat Enrichment Toys

These dog and cat enrichment items are

made of easy-to-find, mostly recycled materials, and can provide hours of fun for a shelter cat or dog! My local shelter is always looking for these types of enrichment toys, but make sure to check with your local shelter before donating!

Time Required:

Each toy takes less than five minutes to make!

You will need (Catnip Toy):

A small sock (kid's socks or ankle socks work great). Used socks are fine, just make sure they don't have holes!
Cotton balls
Catnip

Directions (Catnip Toy):

1. Stuff

Fill the sock about 1/4 full with cotton balls.

2. Add catnip

Sprinkle in about a spoonful of catnip, and then work it around so it is distributed through the cotton balls.

3. Tie

Push the cotton balls down to the toe of the sock. Tie the sock in an overhand knot and pull the knot tight!

… and you are done!

You will need (Crinkle Toy):

A tube or knee-high sock
A clean, dry plastic soda bottle (500 - 750mL work best)

Directions (Crinkle Toy):

1. Get the bottle ready

Make sure the bottle is clean and dry. Remove the label and lid.

2. Crunch the bottle

Using your hands or your feet, crunch the bottle up (lengthwise). We want it to be flatter than when it was full, but not completely flat.

3. Stuff and tie

Stuff the bottle into the sock (it works better if you put it in neck first). Push it down as far as you can, and tie the top of the sock with an overhand knot. Make sure to pull it tight!