Affordable & Eco-Friendly Dog and Cat Toy Ideas – Simple Country Living

by Belinda Paterson May 6, 2025

Affordable & Eco-Friendly Dog and Cat Toy Ideas – Simple Country Living

At Simple Country Living, we believe pets are more than companions—they’re family. Whether it’s our loyal German Shepherds and Kelpies, our furry friends deserve enrichment and love. But keeping pets entertained doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune or buying plastic-filled toys. With a little creativity and sustainable thinking, you can make budget-friendly, eco-conscious toys right at home.

Here are our top tried-and-tested inexpensive toy ideas for dogs and cats—plus links to handmade pet products we know you’ll love.

🐶 Inexpensive Dog Toy Ideas

1. Recycled Stuffed Toys

Dogs love stuffed toys—especially tearing them apart! Instead of buying expensive ones from pet shops, grab preloved teddies from op shops or repurpose old soft toys from your kids.

✅ Tip: Avoid bean-filled toys as they can be dangerous if chewed.
♻️ Repurpose tip: Donate your worn teddies to your dog toy bin.

🏱 Want something handmade for your pup? Check out our Handcrafted Macramé Pet Bandanas—stylish, sustainable, and made from recycled cotton!

2. Homemade Ice Blocks

Perfect for summer—and a hit all year round. Fill an empty container (like an ice cream tub) with water or low-sodium stock, toss in treats, and freeze. Hours of cool, licking fun!

🐾 Add in their favourite dry food or peanut butter before freezing.

3. DIY Rope Toys

Got old towels or sheets? Turn them into durable tug toys by cutting into strips, plaiting, and knotting at both ends. You can even form DIY rope balls this way.

🧶 Looking for a sustainable upgrade? Try our Custom Recycled Wood Signs for a rustic décor piece your pet can’t chew through!

4. Kong-Style Puzzle Toys

Invest once in a durable Kong (or similar puzzle toy) and fill it with frozen treats. Peanut butter, kibble, or frozen stock all make great fillers.

🧪 Bonus tip: Freeze the Kong overnight to make it last longer.

5. Treat Balls for Small Dogs

Affordable treat balls are ideal for small dogs or gentle chewers. They roll and play while trying to release tasty treats—mental and physical stimulation combined!

🐱 Inexpensive Cat Toy Ideas

1. DIY Scratching Posts or Panels

Instead of buying pricey cat towers, create your own scratch station using carpet squares and plywood panels. Mount near your sofa or wall to save your furniture.

🐈 Got a DIY itch? Explore our Customised Recycled Wood Signage to repurpose leftover wood into unique décor pieces.

2. Alfoil Balls & Ping Pong Fun

Roll up some alfoil or grab a ping pong ball—cats will chase them for hours. Lightweight and easy to replace when they vanish under the fridge!

3. String & Wool Play

A simple strand of string or yarn tied to a stick is all you need. Flick it around to mimic prey and watch your cat spring into action.

4. Crafty Pipe Cleaners

Found in most craft cupboards, pipe cleaners are bendable, bouncy, and fun. Coil into spring shapes or flick them across the floor for DIY play.

Why It Matters

Creating your own pet toys not only saves money, it also:

Reduces waste by repurposing household items
Encourages sustainable choices
Promotes bonding and stimulation for pets

Looking for sustainable pet gifts or accessories? Explore our growing range of eco-friendly pet products, lovingly handmade on our small South Australian farm.

Let’s Keep It Simple, Sustainable, and Fun

We’d love to hear your ideas too! Share your favourite DIY dog or cat toy ideas in the comments or tag us on Instagram and Facebook using @simplecountrylivingau.

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