DIY toy guide
Toilet Roll Puzzle Feeder
Turn recycling into a mentally stimulating meal
Converts empty toilet rolls into a simple puzzle feeder. Slows eating, stimulates foraging instincts, and costs nothing.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Time
- 5 minutes
- Cost
- Free
🧺 You will need
- 3–6 empty toilet paper cardboard rolls
- Dry kibble or small treats
- A low tray or shoebox base (optional, to contain rolling)
🔧 How to make it
- Fold one end of each toilet roll inward to close it — fold the cardboard in thirds like a milk carton.
- Pour a small amount of kibble or treats into the open end of each roll.
- Fold the open end shut in the same way.
- Place rolls in a tray or on the floor. Your cat must roll, bat, and manipulate the tubes to release the food.
- For a harder challenge, place a second roll inside a larger one, or use egg carton cups as dividers.
- Recycle rolls after each meal and replenish with fresh ones.
💡 Tips
Introduce the puzzle when your cat is hungry for maximum motivation. If your cat is confused at first, leave one end partially open to let them smell the food inside. Graduate to fully sealed rolls as they gain confidence.
Safety: Use plain, unprinted cardboard where possible. Avoid rolls with heavy ink printing on the inside. Always supervise the first few sessions.
📝 Notes
Single-use — recycle after each meal. Use dry food only; wet food will quickly soak through the cardboard.