DIY sock kicker for cats: how to play
Stuff a small clean sock with a spoonful of catnip and paper towels, knot the top, and give your cat a soft toy built for grabbing and bunny kicking.
- Time
- 5 min
- Energy
- Medium
- Space
- Small room
You'll need
- a small clean sock
- dried catnip (about a tablespoon)
- paper towels
Set up
Gather one small clean sock, about a tablespoon of dried catnip and a few paper towels. Check the catnip smells minty; if it has no scent, it is past its prime.
How to play
Pour about a tablespoon of dried catnip into the foot of the sock.
Stuff paper towels in after the catnip until the sock is filled out but still soft.
Tie off the top with a knot so the filling cannot come out. That is the whole toy.
Put the kicker on the floor near your cat and let your cat grab it with the front paws and kick with the back legs.
Let the play run for a minute or two, then put the sock away. Bring it out again later, or swap it with another toy, so it feels brand new.
House rules
- Hands and feet are never the target. If your cat goes for your arm, stop and offer the kicker instead.
- Keep sessions to a minute or two at a time; very short games are fine.
- Put the sock away between sessions rather than leaving your cat alone with it.
- Swap the kicker with your cat's other toys every week or two so it stays interesting.
- Make it easier
- Keep the game very short: one to two minutes is plenty.
- Make it harder
- Put a little catnip in the centre of the sock before you tie the knots, or try a different herb to stimulate your cat's sense of smell: rosemary, valerian, honeysuckle, lavender and thyme all tend to be popular.
Signs it's having fun
Your cat rolls onto one side, wraps the front paws around the sock and drums the back legs against it, bites and gnaws the fabric, then comes back for more after a short break.
Stop if you see
Pinned-back ears, hair on end (piloerection), a stiffened body posture or a puffy tail. Stop whatever interaction triggered it and offer a kicker toy or another toy instead.
Safety
Safety- Only let your cat play with the sock while you are watching. Some cats might chew or ingest parts of a toy, resulting in severe medical issues.
- Check the sock regularly for signs of wear, and replace it when needed.
- Do not leave your cat on their own with the toy; some toys could be shredded and eaten.
- If you notice signs of aggression or distress, redirect your cat with another toy or by shaking treats in front of them.
Sources
- Five Cat Toys You Can Make In Less Than Five Minutes | Fear Free Happy Homes
- Why Do Cats Bunny Kick? | PetMD
- Cats and Play | Cats Protection
Written from these sources and checked against vet and trainer guidance. General guidance, not veterinary advice.
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