Homemade Feather, Cotton Ball and Felt Cat Toy

Although there are a variety of cat toys available for purchase at pet supply stores, cat toys can be easily made with household objects. One of the most popular styles of cat toys is a cat ̶0;wand.̶1; With a wand-style toy, the owner uses a wooden dowel to dangle the toy on a string or cord in front of the cat. The toy is especially popular among cat owners because it allows the owner to participate in the play experience at a distance. This style of toy also tends to engage cats for longer periods of time than balls or toy mice left on the floor.

Things You'll Need

  • Wooden dowl, 18 inches in length
  • Elastic cord, 18 inches in length
  • Cotton ball
  • Feather
  • Felt
  • Instant glue, such as Super Glue
  • Needle
  • Thread
  • 3 miniature bells
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take the end of the elastic cord and tie it in a double knot around the wooden dowel. The knot should be 1 inch away from the end of the dowel.

    • 2

      Pull the elastic cord and place a drop of instant glue between the knot and the wooden dowel. Repeat this process and put another dot of glue on the other side of the wooden dowel. Allow the glue to dry for five minutes.

    • 3

      Knot the other end of the elastic cord to the felt. Place a drop of instant glue between the elastic cord and the felt. The elasticity of the cord will cause the toy to fly into the air when your cat lets go, which will increase your cat̵7;s stimulation.

    • 4

      Sew the cotton ball on to the felt using a needle and thread. If you simply attach the cotton ball with instant glue, it is likely that your cat will be able to remove it while playing with the toy.

    • 5

      Insert the base of the feather underneath the knotted elastic cord and glue the feather to the felt. By looping the feather under the elastic cord, the feather will stay secure when your cat plays with the toy.

    • 6

      Glue the bells around the exposed part of the elastic cord that is in a knot around the felt. The bells add a playful touch and audio stimulation for your cat. Let the bells dry for five minutes and let your cat enjoy his new toy.