Cozy DIY Winter Projects for You and Your Cat
As the days grow shorter, it gets harder to ignore the fact that winter is on its way. The air grows crisp, the trees go bare, and, eventually, snow blankets the ground. With it all comes a sense of coziness. Things slow down and on a cold night, there’s nothing better than curling up indoors with your feline friends.
Cats love a good activity, so why not make the most out of a cold night and have some fun with DIY projects? Not only will they bring a certain joy to your home, but your cat will love exploring new objects/spaces and spending time with their favourite human.
Cat Blanket Forts
Who says blanket forts are just for kids? Create a cozy hideaway for you and your cat, or just your cat, with a blanket fort!
With a few chairs, blankets, and some cushions, you can put together a pretty decent tent-style fort. Arrange the chairs in a circle or square, drape the blankets over them, and tuck in the edges in to create a snug cave. Added points for putting your cats’ favourite items in there – blankets, pillows, toys, etc.
DIY Kitty Hotel Room
Every cat deserves a warm and comfortable place to curl up during the chilly winter months.
Grab a sturdy cardboard box or an old suitcase and some soft fabric or fleece. Line the inside of the structure with fabric and cut an entrance into one side of it. Add some windows, but not too many. Personalize the outside with paint or decorations that match your home decor.
Interactive Puzzle Feeder
Keep your cat mentally stimulated during the long winter days with a DIY puzzle feeder.
An empty plastic bottle, scissors, and your cat’s favourite treats or kibble are all you need to make this one work. Cut small holes in the sides of the bottle—just big enough for treats to fall out. Be sure to wrap the edges with tape so they aren’t too sharp. Fill the bottle with treats, secure the lid, and let your cat roll it around to earn their tasty rewards. This project provides exercise and mental stimulation while keeping mealtime fun!
Cozy Cat Tree or Scratching Post
Cats love scratching posts and we always recommend getting them a tree. Cat trees are like a scratching palace and they can provide a ton of stimulation for your cat.
To make your own cat tree or post, you will need wood boards or posts, carpet samples or scraps, sisal rope, and some glue. Cut the wood into various heights and shapes, then wrap it with the rope using glue behind it to really hold it in place. Cover the platform shapes with carpet scraps, gluing them down as well. Once finished, put them all together to build a tree, or use them separately as scratching posts. Just make sure they have sturdy bases!
Winter-Themed Cat Toys
Keep your cat entertained with homemade winter-themed toys that they can pounce on, bat, and chase.
Stop by a craft store to pick up some felt fabric, catnip, stuffing, and a sewing kit (or fabric glue). Cut out winter shapes—like snowflakes, mittens, or even little snowmen—from felt. Sew or glue two pieces together, leaving a small opening to stuff with catnip or stuffing before sealing it up. Your cat will love the soft textures and the enticing scents of their new toys!
Window Perch for Bird Watching
Enhance your cat’s indoor entertainment by creating a window perch where they can bask in the sun and watch the world go by.
Grab a sturdy shelf and brackets from a local furniture or hardware retailer, as well as a soft blanket. Install the shelf on or just below a window that gets plenty of sunlight. Make it cozy with a soft blanket or pillow for your cat to lounge on while they enjoy the views. This perch should be pretty straightforward to set up and will provide hours of entertainment as they observe the winter wildlife outside!
Embrace Your Creativity!
These are just some ideas you can use to get started. Don’t be afraid to try to put yourself into your cats’ shoes and be creative. Try to think about what you might like to see if you were a cat, and make it happen!