Cardboard scratch maze for cats: how to play
A DIY cardboard maze built from the ASPCA's supplies list: cardboard and a sharp knife. Your cat explores it while you supervise closely, and you can add kibble or treats to make it a food game.
- Time
- 10 min
- Energy
- Medium
- Space
- A room
You'll need
- cardboard
- sharp knife
- kibble or treats
Set up
Gather cardboard and a sharp knife, the two supplies the ASPCA lists for its Build a Cat Maze project. Pick a time when you can watch your cat closely the whole time the maze is out.
How to play
Gather the supplies: cardboard and a sharp knife, the two things the ASPCA lists for its Build a Cat Maze project.
Build the maze from the cardboard.
Add food: put kibble or treats in the maze so finding them is part of the game. Every meal is an opportunity for enrichment.
Supervise closely the whole time the maze is out. If your cat attempts to ingest an item, remove it immediately from their mouth.
House rules
- Always supervise closely while the DIY maze is accessible.
- If your cat attempts to ingest an item, remove it immediately from their mouth.
- Keep the game about exploring the cardboard spaces and finding the kibble or treats.
- Enrichment is for cats and kittens of all ages, so keep sessions short and calm for young or older cats.
Signs it's having fun
Your cat explores the maze and finds the kibble or treats inside.
Stop if you see
Your cat tries to ingest a piece of cardboard. Remove it immediately from their mouth.
Safety
Safety- Please ensure that you are always closely and actively supervising your cat while DIY items are accessible.
- If your cat attempts to ingest an item, remove it immediately from their mouth.
- The sharp knife is a build supply only, never a cat toy.
Sources
Written from these sources and checked against vet and trainer guidance. General guidance, not veterinary advice.
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