What You’ll Need
• A small, flat cardboard box
• Bonus: one with built-in sections
• A lightweight toy such as the Mouseketeers
• Optional: scissors, paper scraps, or cardboard strips for DIY dividers
How to Make It (Under 5 Minutes!)
1. Take off the lid — or poke holes in it for “paw-through” play.
2. Drop the Mouseketeers toy into one of the compartments.
3. Give the box a gentle shake so the toy nestles in.
4. Let your cat sniff, hunt, scoop and celebrate their “capture.”
A. The Divider Trick
1. Cut long cardboard strips the height of your box.
2. Cut small slits halfway down each strip so they slot together into a grid.
3. Place the grid inside your box.
4. Hide the toy in one of the sections.
B. The Egg Carton Hack
1. Trim the bottom of an egg carton into individual cups.
2. Glue or tape them into your flat box.
3. Drop the toy into one cup and let the investigation begin.
C. The Paper Crinkle Maze
1. Scrunch up strips of scrap paper.
2. Arrange them inside the box as little pockets and pathways.
3. Hide the toy in one of the paper clusters.
4. Add a sprinkle of catnip if your cat enjoys scent-driven play.
Why Cats Love This Puzzle
This simple activity encourages:
• 🧠 Mental stimulation (great for indoor cats)
• 🎯 Paw–eye coordination
• 🐾 Curious, confident hunting behaviours
• 🔄 Independent play between interactive sessions
It’s the perfect blend of “easy for humans, exciting for cats.”
Make It Even More Fun
• Change the hiding spot each time
• Add catnip or silvervine for scent enrichment
• Use a clear lid with holes for peek-and-pounce play
• Add crinkly paper for sound and texture
Wrapping It Up
A few minutes, a spare box, and a tiny toy — that’s all it takes to give your cat a moment of joy that feels instinctive, engaging, and deeply satisfying. This quick little puzzle is proof that enrichment doesn’t need to be expensive or complicated to make a real difference to your cat’s day.
If you try it, tag us — we’d love to see your lil' Shikar in action. You’ll find us on Pinterest, TikTok, and Instagram at @everytailuk.
