DIY toy guide

Yoghurt-Pot Treat Roller

An upcycled pot that spills a treat or two as a cat bats it around

A clean yoghurt pot with a few holes punched in it becomes a rolling treat dispenser — a cat nudges and paws it to shake out dry food, turning a snack into a bit of foraging.

Difficulty
Easy
Time
15 min
Cost
Free

🧺 You will need

  • A clean, dry yoghurt or dessert pot with a lid
  • A few pieces of dry cat food or small treats
  • Scissors or a skewer to make holes
  • Sticky tape

🔧 How to make it

  1. Wash and thoroughly dry the pot and its lid, removing any labels.
  2. Make two or three holes around the sides, each just big enough for a piece of kibble to fall through.
  3. Drop a small handful of dry food or treats inside.
  4. Press the lid on firmly and run a strip of tape around the rim so it cannot pop off in play.
  5. Set it on the floor and show your cat how it rolls and rattles to release a treat.

💡 Tips

  • Start with larger holes so early wins come easily, then make new pots with smaller holes as your cat gets the idea.
  • Use part of the daily food ration inside so treats do not add extra calories.
Safety: Supervise the first few sessions and check the pot regularly, retiring it if the plastic cracks or the edges of the holes become sharp. Remove the lid and tape before recycling.

📝 Notes

Rolling puzzle toys slow down fast eaters and give indoor cats a small hunting-and-foraging challenge, which helps burn energy and stave off boredom.