DIY Thanksgiving Toys and Treats to Spoil Your Cat This Season

Thanksgiving isn’t just for humans to enjoy great food, cozy vibes, and good company; it's also the perfect time to show our feline friends how thankful we are for them! Why not make this Thanksgiving extra special for your cat by crafting DIY toys and treats that celebrate the season? From safe, festive snacks to entertaining toys, these ideas will keep your kitty happy and engaged while everyone else feasts.

1. Pumpkin Puree Cat Treats

Pumpkin is a seasonal favorite, and it’s also great for cats! Pumpkin is high in fiber and can help with your cat’s digestion, making it a perfect base for a Thanksgiving treat.

What You Need:

• 1/2 cup plain pumpkin puree (ensure it’s free from sugar or spices)
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup of ground oat flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until they form a dough.
3. Roll the dough into small, bite-sized balls or press them flat for cookies.
4. Bake for about 15 minutes or until slightly firm.
5. Allow them to cool before serving your kitty.

These treats can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week. Your cat will appreciate the fresh, natural taste of pumpkin this Thanksgiving!

2. Turkey Feather Wand Toy

Cats are natural hunters, and they love a good chase! A turkey feather wand toy is the perfect way to let them indulge in their instincts and join in on the Thanksgiving fun.

What You Need:

• A wooden dowel or stick
• String or twine
• Feathers (consider using faux turkey feathers for a seasonal touch)
• Non-toxic glue

Instructions:

1. Cut a piece of string about 1-2 feet long.
2. Glue several feathers to one end of the string, securing them tightly.
3. Attach the other end of the string to the dowel.
4. Let the glue dry completely before playtime.

Now, you’re ready to entertain your cat with a DIY turkey feather wand! Just wave it around and watch them pounce, bat, and chase to their heart’s content.

3. Catnip-Stuffed Pumpkin Pillow

Thanksgiving decor meets feline fun with these adorable, catnip-filled pumpkin pillows. These soft toys are perfect for batting, kicking, and snuggling, plus the scent of catnip will make them irresistible to your furry friend.

What You Need:

• Orange felt or fabric
• Green felt for a “stem”
• Cotton or stuffing material
• Catnip
• Needle and thread or fabric glue

Instructions:

1. Cut two pumpkin shapes from the orange felt and a small leaf from the green felt.
2. Stitch or glue the two pumpkin pieces together, leaving a small opening at the top.
3. Fill with cotton and a generous sprinkle of catnip.
4. Sew or glue the opening closed and attach the green felt stem.

These cute little pumpkins make for a delightful, seasonal toy your cat will love to toss around or cuddle with.

4. Sweet Potato Cat Bites

Just like pumpkin, sweet potatoes are safe for cats in moderation and offer a boost of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Make these simple baked bites as a tasty holiday snack.

What You Need:

• 1/2 small sweet potato
• 1/4 cup of oat flour
• A small amount of water if needed

Instructions:

1. Peel and boil the sweet potato until soft, then mash it thoroughly.
2. Mix in the oat flour, adding water as necessary to make a dough.
3. Form the mixture into tiny, cat-sized treats.
4. Bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until they’re firm but still soft enough for your cat to chew.

Serve these treats fresh, and watch your kitty savor each bite!

5. Thanksgiving Paper Roll Feeder

Add a bit of challenge and mental stimulation to your cat’s day by making a Thanksgiving-themed treat feeder. Using an empty paper towel roll, you can create a simple, interactive toy that dispenses treats as your cat plays.

What You Need:

• Empty paper towel or toilet paper roll
• Scissors
• Cat treats

Instructions:

1. Cut small holes around the roll, just big enough for treats to fall out.
2. Fill the roll with a few of your cat’s favorite treats.
3. Seal the ends by folding them or covering them with non-toxic paper tape.

Now, place the roll on the floor and watch your cat push, roll, and paw at it to release their tasty rewards!

Conclusion

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to give thanks for all the little things we love—including our pets! With these easy DIY toys and treats, you’ll make this Thanksgiving memorable for your feline friend while keeping them entertained and satisfied. After all, our cats bring so much joy to our lives, so it’s only fitting to spoil them a little during the holidays.

Happy Thanksgiving, and enjoy spoiling your fur baby with these fun, festive creations!