DIY rule
If you would be uncomfortable with the cat chewing or swallowing part of the material, do not build that material into an unattended toy.
Homemade toys can be inexpensive and easy to replace, but “DIY” does not automatically mean safe. The same inspection rules apply: consider what can detach, unravel, splinter, be swallowed or expose adhesive, staples or other hardware.
DIY Cat Toys: Keep It Simple & Safe
Simple usually beats elaborate
A sturdy cardboard box with safe openings can provide hiding and exploration. Crumpled paper can become a supervised bat toy. Paper tubes can be used for simple food-search activities if they remain intact and are appropriate for the cat.
Be especially cautious with string and yarn
String-like materials can be dangerous if swallowed. Do not leave yarn, thread, ribbon or similar linear materials available as unattended cat toys. Supervise any toy that incorporates them and store it securely after use.
Avoid hidden hazards
Staples, pins, wire, exposed glue, loose beads, buttons and detachable decorations do not belong in a chewable toy. If a material frays into ingestible strands, retire it.
Make replaceability a feature
A DIY toy does not have to last forever. If a cardboard or paper item becomes wet, dirty, chewed apart or structurally weak, replace it.