When traveling with your pet, it’s always a good idea to have some toys on hand to keep them entertained and occupied, especially during long trips or downtime in hotels. If you don’t want to bring bulky pet toys with you, making a DIY toy is an easy and cost-effective way to keep your pet engaged. Here are a few simple ideas to create DIY pet toys using materials you likely have at home:
1. Sock Toy for Dogs
One of the easiest and most durable toys for dogs is a sock-based tug toy. All you need is a clean sock (preferably one that’s thick), and a pair of scissors. Here’s how to make it:
- Take the sock and knot it at the opening to create a “handle.”
- Then, cut the remaining sock into strips.
- Braid the strips together tightly, ensuring it’s not too loose.
- Once you’ve braided the strips, knot the end to secure it.
This creates a tug toy that your dog will enjoy, whether for pulling or chewing, and it’s compact enough to take along on your travels.
2. Water Bottle Toy for Cats and Small Dogs
A simple water bottle toy can provide hours of entertainment for cats and small dogs. The crinkly sound and light weight of a plastic bottle are highly appealing to pets. To make it:
- Take an empty plastic bottle, remove the cap and any plastic rings, and place it inside a sock or fabric.
- Tie the sock at both ends to secure the bottle.
- You can even place a few treats inside the bottle to entice your pet further.
The crinkling sound of the bottle inside the fabric will keep your pet’s attention, and it’s easy to pack in a bag.
3. Paper Towel Roll Puzzle for Cats
Cats love puzzles and games that challenge their minds. A quick and simple toy you can make while traveling is a paper towel roll puzzle. To make this:
- Take a clean paper towel roll and cut it into smaller pieces (about 2 inches wide).
- Fold in the ends slightly to create small pockets.
- Hide a few cat treats inside each roll section and fold the opening just enough so the treats are hidden.
This will keep your cat entertained as they paw at the rolls to retrieve the treats. It’s a great way to keep them mentally stimulated while traveling.
4. Knotted Rope Toy for Dogs
Another easy DIY toy for dogs involves using some old fabric or a piece of rope. To create a knotted rope toy:
- Cut a long piece of fabric or rope (about 3-4 feet).
- Tie a knot at one end, then continue tying knots along the length of the rope.
- Knot the other end when you’re finished.
This creates a rope toy that’s perfect for fetch or tug-of-war, and it’s compact enough to store in your travel bag.
5. Felt and String Toy for Cats
Cats love string, so making a DIY string toy can keep them busy for hours. To make a simple felt and string toy:
- Cut a few small pieces of felt into shapes, such as triangles or squares.
- Thread a long piece of string through the shapes and tie knots in between them.
- Hang the string somewhere your cat can reach, such as in a doorway, or drag it along the ground to entice them to play.
This DIY toy is great for interactive play and works well for keeping your cat entertained while traveling.
By creating these simple DIY toys, you can ensure that your pet stays entertained and engaged during travel, helping them cope with the stress of new environments and preventing boredom.