Cat and Dog Holiday Gifts: 5 Best DIY Ideas for Pet Parents

Author: K. Marie Alto by K Marie Alto Updated April 12, 2025 2 min read

The holidays can be expensive, so what better way to save money than DIY presents?

Below you’ll find some of the easiest toys to make for your fur babies with supplies you can find around your house.

Fetch and Tug Toy

We all have old ball toys laying around that have seen better days. Go grab an old t-shirt and turn that ball into a brand new toy!

Supplies: 1 T-Shirt, 1 Tennis Ball

View the step-by-step tutorial to create a DIY tug toy for your dog.

Foraging Box

This is one of my favorite ideas that can be made out of almost any box you have laying around. Cut some holes, throw in some toys and treats and watch your kitty spend hours at play!

Supplies: 12-pack cardboard soda carton, Scissors, X-acto knife, Glue (or hot glue gun), Decorative or duct tape, Paper towel tube; Optional Supplies: 2 pipe cleaners, Bamboo skewers, Crafting feathers

View the step-by-step tutorial to create a foraging box for your cat.

Cat T-Shirt Tent

Ever buy one of those expensive kitty cubes only to find it ignored? Save your money and try this awesome alternative!

Supplies: 2 wire hangers, 4 safety pins, a piece of cardboard, and a T-shirt.

View the step-by-step tutorial to create a shirt tent for your cat.

T-Shirt Rope Toy

I’m big on donating clothes that no longer fit, but what about items with holes? Cut those items up and turn them into a new toy!

Supplies: 2 t-shirts, scissors

View the step-by-step tutorial to create a t-shirt toy for your pup.

Frozen Peanut Butter and Banana Treats

Do you have a kitty or pup with a sensitive stomach? I love freezing small amounts of wet food. It’s a nice spin on something you already know they like!

Supplies: 2 overripe bananas, 1 cup Greek yogurt, 1/2 cup xylitol free peanut butter, Ice cube tray

View the step-by-step tutorial to create homemade frozen dog treats.

Have you ever made a gift for your fur baby? Share a picture!

Read Further

One more thing, if you are feeling like getting a little special something for your fur baby that is unique, made right here in the USA, 100% pup and cat safe, USDA certified organic and brought to you by a US company, check out Toe Beans online pet supplies store!

K Marie Alto

K. Marie is an animal lover, wife, pet momma, blogger, writer, and co-founder of Toe Beans^®, the premier American manufacturer of direct-to-pet-parent dog and cat wellness supplies. A company that creates certifiably better pet products proudly made in the USA.

By redefining what conscious pet households should expect from pet products — from how, where, and by whom they are made to the materials used — Toe Beans® is becoming the #1 trusted source for health-conscious pet parents seeking ingredient transparency, healthier choices, true American craftsmanship, and the highest standards for the furry family members they love most.

She loves sharing her journey through social media — follow her on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest. Read Marie’s full bio here.

Also in Pet Parents Blog by Toe Beans

Is Your Cat Left-Pawed or Right-Pawed? How to Tell

by K Marie Alto July 23, 2026 8 min read

We show you how to tell if your cat is left-pawed or right-pawed, why cats favor one paw, and simple ways you can test your cat at home with clear daily signs.

How to Teach Your Dog Left Paw vs Right Paw on Cue

by K Marie Alto July 16, 2026 8 min read

We show you how to teach your dog left paw vs right paw on cue, so you can build clear paw skills for vet checks, nail trims, and daily care with simple steps.

Sisal vs Cardboard vs Carpet Scratching Posts for Cats

by K Marie Alto July 09, 2026 8 min read

We help you compare sisal, cardboard, and carpet scratching posts for cats so you can choose a texture your cat likes and keep your home safe from claw damage.