DIY toy guide
Sock Kicker
A satisfying bunny-kick toy from a single old sock
Repurpose a worn sock into a catnip-stuffed kicker toy that encourages the natural bunny-kick hunting behaviour.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Time
- 5 minutes
- Cost
- Free
🧺 You will need
- 1 old sock (knee-length or longer works best)
- 2–3 tablespoons dried catnip
- Crinkled aluminium foil or a scrunched plastic bag (for texture and sound)
- A handful of polyester toy stuffing or shredded paper
- String or rubber band to tie it off
🔧 How to make it
- Turn the sock inside-out if it has rough seams, then flip back — the seam-free side should face inward.
- Push the crinkle material (foil or plastic) deep into the toe of the sock.
- Add the polyester stuffing over the crinkle material to create a plump, firm body.
- Pour the catnip over the stuffing.
- Tie the open end tightly with string or a rubber band, leaving a small fabric tail if desired.
- Present to your cat and watch the bunny-kicking begin.
💡 Tips
The kicker should be long enough for your cat to wrap both front paws around it and kick with the back feet simultaneously — this is the natural "kill behaviour." Refresh the catnip by crushing the toy in your hands (releases volatile oils). Most cats lose interest once catnip loses potency — replace stuffing and catnip monthly.
Safety: Check the sock periodically for holes or loose threads that could be ingested. The crinkle material should be secured inside the stuffing — do not let it migrate to the surface.
📝 Notes
Refresh catnip monthly. Store in an airtight bag between sessions to preserve potency.