How to Make Toy Mice for a Cat

Cat lovers don't have to spend a lot to provide entertainment for their feline friends. One toy you can make at home is a catnip mouse.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Paper and pencil Felt or fabric Yarn Small pom-pom Carpet thread or light yarn Poly-fil stuffing Dried catnip Craft or embroidery needles Scissors Magic Marker

Make a Catnip Mouse

1. Using paper and pencil, make a template of a mouse body by drawing an oval about 7 inches long. Cut out the template.

2. Trace the oval onto felt or fabric and cut out.

3. Fold the oval in half to make the mouse body.

4. To make the mouse tail, thread a 12-inch piece of yarn through a needle. Push the needle through the center of the pom-pom; this will be the end of the tail. Knot the ends of the yarn together.

5. Place the knotted end of the yarn tail inside the tail end of the mouse and then sew the mouse together by hand, using either heavy thread or light yarn. Use a running stitch or whip stitch until it is almost completely closed, making sure the tail is securely sewn in.

6. Stuff the mouse with poly-fil, add a pinch or two of dried catnip and then finish stitching the mouse closed.

7. You may leave the mouse as is, or add finishing touches, such as small felt ears, yarn whiskers and eyes drawn on with a Magic Marker.

Tips & Warnings

• This could be used as a service project for scout troops or school groups. The mice could be donated to animal shelters.
• Discard the toy when it begins to show signs of wear.