If you’re getting a little stir crazy and bored from months of sheltering in place, you’re certainly not alone. It can be hard to keep yourself entertained and engaged in life when you’re not supposed to leave home except for essential errands.

But for the crafty, handy, DIY types, the current circumstances can be ideal for letting your creative juices flow. And who’s a better recipient of your creativity than your beloved pets?

Sure, you could always just buy something online. But since you have the time, this might be a great opportunity to try your hand at a DIY project for your pet.

Disclaimer: If you’re just trying to stay sane and healthy and don’t have the mental energy to DIY, that’s totally OK too. 

1. Kitty Facilities

If you hate the eyesore of your cat’s litter box, consider repurposing a simple cabinet into a custom kitty litter station. Get an inexpensive, two-door cabinet and cut an entry hole into the side. One section of the cabinet can house the litter box and the other can have a litter mat and scooper.

This way when your cat exits, they have to pass through the section with the mat or carpet square, cutting down on litter and dust spreading through your home. Stick a cushion on top and it can double as a cat bed.

2. Portable Pup Tent

With summer approaching, it’s a good time to think about keeping your dog cool and comfortable in the great outdoors. With minimal materials and a little craftiness, you can make them their very own shade tent that’s easy to take on-the-go for outings at the park, beach or camping. And it will look so cute, you may want to make it a permanent fixture in your home.

3. Kitty Window Seat

You’ve probably noticed how fond your cat is of sitting in the window. What’s not to love? They can look out on the action outside and catch some warming rays of sunshine. Instead of spending big bucks on fancy window seats, you can easily make your own with a simple basket, pillow, chains and suction cups. Believe us, your cat will thank you.

4. Cat Hideaway

If there’s one thing cats love more than curling up in a puddle of sunshine, it’s hiding away in a secret nook. You can create the perfect hideaway for your feline friend using a plastic bin, an old t-shirt and a few other bits and pieces that are available from craft stores.

5. Raised Feeder

For older cats and dogs, it can be beneficial to their digestive health to eat food from bowls that are slightly raised off the ground. You don’t have to go to great lengths to find one either. It’s fairly simple to make your own that’s perfectly customized to your pet’s height. Plus, it can help cut down on spills and messes in their eating area. Here’s a tutorial for cats and one for dogs. Just be sure to get the height right so eating is comfortable and easy for your pet.

6. Custom Leash Holder

These days, you may be going on a lot of dog walks just for something to do. So, why not organize your dog walking accessories a bit? Create a custom leash station right by your door for easy and quick access to the things you need to grab on your way out the door. You can follow these instructions to make one that has your dog’s silhouette or create your own design with a paw pattern or your dog’s name.

That’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to fun, DIY pet projects that you and your furry friends will love. Click here for a longer list if you’re feeling ambitious. And happy DIYing!