Cat Advent Calendar DIY Guide

Bringing Festive Cheer to Your Cat’s Holidays. The holiday season is a time for love, joy, and sharing, so why not include your furry friend in the festivities? A cat advent calendar filled with treats and toys lets your cat join in the holiday spirit. In this guide, you’ll learn how to make a custom cat advent calendar. With a little creativity and a few supplies, you can create an engaging, interactive experience for your cat this December. You don’t need to be crafty, and you don’t need to spend much, either. If you can fold a paper bag and write the numbers 1 to 24, you can do this.

Why Make an Advent Calendar for Cats?

Cats are curious by nature, and a DIY advent calendar keeps them engaged, offering daily surprises. It’s a thoughtful way to bond with your pet, make them feel included, and enhance their holiday season with something special each day.

There are practical benefits, too. Indoor cats need mental stimulation, and a daily routine built around sniffing, pawing, and “hunting” a hidden reward is a simple form of environmental enrichment. A predictable daily ritual can also help shy or anxious cats feel more secure during a busy season full of visitors, new decorations, and changes in your schedule. And because you’re making it yourself, you control exactly what goes inside, which matters if your cat has allergies, a sensitive stomach, or a special diet. Store-bought calendars are fun, but they rarely suit every cat.

Before You Start: Get to Know Your Cat’s Preferences

The best calendars are built around the individual cat. Spend a few days observing before you shop.

• Watch what your cat chases. Some cats go wild for feathers, while others prefer small plush mice or crinkly balls.
• Note favorite treat textures. Crunchy, soft, freeze-dried, or lickable? Many cats have a strong preference.
• Check your cat’s age and health. Kittens, seniors, and cats with dental problems or medical conditions need different treats. If your cat is on a prescription diet, ask your veterinarian before adding anything new.
• Plan your treat budget. A common guideline is that treats should make up no more than about 10% of your cat’s daily calories. For most adult cats, that means only a few small treats per day, so choose tiny pieces, not full-size ones.

Materials Needed

Gather the following items to craft a memorable advent calendar for your feline:

• Small paper bags, envelopes, or boxes (enough for 24 days). Plain kraft small kraft paper gift bags are cheap, sturdy, and easy to decorate. Mini cardboard boxes or even paper cups work well, too.
• Stickers, markers, or labels to mark each day. A pack of advent calendar number stickers (1–24) saves a lot of time.
• Cat-safe treats and toys (such as feather toys, bells, or crinkle balls). See the sections below for ideas, including freeze-dried cat treats and catnip toys.
• A large board or string for hanging (optional). A cork board, a wooden frame, or a length of jute twine all work. Use mini wooden clothespins to attach the bags.
• Ribbons, festive fabric, or small holiday decorations for embellishing. Keep these on the outside of the calendar, well out of your cat’s reach.
• Optional extras: scissors, a hole punch, double-sided tape, a ruler, and a pencil.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Your Cat Advent Calendar

Step 1: Prepare the Treats and Toys

Choose treats and toys that your cat loves. Opt for a variety of textures and flavors, such as crunchy treats, soft chews, and small catnip toys. This variety keeps your cat intrigued and excited for each new day. Remember to select only cat-safe items, avoiding anything with small parts that could be a choking hazard.

A good rule of thumb is to aim for roughly 12–14 treats and 10–12 toys or activities across the 24 days. Some ideas to get you started:

• Crunchy treats: small crunchy cat treats, which are great for a daily snack.
• Soft chews and lickable treats: creamy lickable cat treats are perfect for “special” days. Place a single serving in a small sealed container so it doesn’t make a mess.
• Freeze-dried treats: single-ingredient chicken, salmon, or minnow treats are lightweight and loved by picky cats.
• Toys: feather wand toys, crinkle balls, small plush mice, and kicker toys.
• Non-food “gifts”: a new cardboard scratcher pad, a sprinkle of silvervine or catnip, or a fresh play session with you. Remember, the best gift is often your time.

Step 2: Number the Bags or Boxes

Label each bag, envelope, or box with numbers from 1 to 24. You can use festive stickers, paint, or hand-drawn designs to give each container a unique look. Make it bright and colorful, adding holiday-themed illustrations like stars, trees, or snowflakes to add a touch of magic.

Tip: Mix up the order of the numbers if you want to hang the calendar in a decorative pattern. Cats don’t read numbers, but you will, and a scrambled order makes finding each day a small treat for the humans, too. Write the numbers large and clearly so you’re never opening the wrong bag on a busy morning.

Step 3: Fill Each Day’s Bag

Place a different treat or toy in each bag or box, reserving larger, extra-special items for weekends or Christmas Eve. If your cat loves a specific treat, save it for the final day to make it extra special.

Before sealing each bag, check three things: the treat portion is small, the toy has no loose parts, and nothing sharp (like staples) is inside. If you’re using paper bags, fold the top over twice and secure it with tape or a sticker instead of staples. A small hole punched at the top makes hanging easy.

If you want to plan ahead, here’s a simple 24-day filling plan you can copy or adapt:

Days	Theme	What goes inside
1–6	Treat Week	Mix of crunchy and freeze-dried treats, plus one toy on day 3
7–12	Play Week	Crinkle ball, toy mouse, feather wand session, and a few treats
13–18	Sniff & Hunt Week	Catnip or silvervine, treat-hiding games, cardboard puzzle boxes
19–23	Cozy Week	Soft chews, a lickable treat, a pinch of catnip on a soft blanket
24	Grand Finale	Your cat’s absolute favorite treat and a new toy

Step 4: Arrange the Advent Calendar

You can arrange the bags in several ways. Hang them from a string in a garland style, pin them to a board, or place them in a festive basket. Ensure the calendar is in a secure spot where your cat won’t get into it too early but can still sniff around to spark anticipation.

Cats are skilled climbers and swatters, so test your setup. Tug on the string and make sure nothing will fall. A wall-mounted board above cat height, a high shelf, or a closed cabinet works best. If your cat is a determined thief, keep the calendar in a room with a closed door and bring only the day’s bag into the main living space.

Step 5: Create a Daily Routine

Pick a consistent time each day, such as just before breakfast or in the evening after you get home. Cats love routine, and the sound of a rustling bag soon becomes the highlight of their day. Always open the bag yourself, so you can control the portion and remove any packaging.

Step 6: Make It a Play Session

Don’t simply hand over the treat. Turn each day into a mini game. Toss a treat across the floor, tuck it under a cup, or let your cat chase a feather wand before the reward. This activity supports your cat’s natural hunting sequence of stalking, chasing, pouncing, and “catching,” which makes the whole experience more satisfying.

Fun DIY Ideas for a Cat Advent Calendar

Use Recycled Materials

For a sustainable approach, consider using small cardboard boxes or jars you already have at home. Decorate with recycled paper and natural elements like pine cones or sprigs of evergreen for an eco-friendly twist. Just check that any plants are non-toxic to cats, and keep them on the outside of the calendar. Many holiday plants, including mistletoe, holly, and lilies, can be poisonous to cats.

Empty toilet paper tubes are another favorite. Fold the ends closed to create little “crackers,” fill them with a treat, and decorate the outside. Your cat gets a bonus cardboard toy to shred afterward.

Customize Each Day with a Theme

Make each day of the calendar feel unique by grouping the treats and toys around themes. One day can include a toy mouse, while another can focus on catnip treats or a jingly ball. You could even add in a tiny ornament for your cat’s collar or a homemade holiday accessory. If you add a collar accessory, make sure it is a breakaway-safe design and remove it when you can’t supervise.

More theme ideas: “Fishing Day” with salmon treats, “Mouse Hunt Day” with a plush mouse, “Spa Day” with a gentle brushing session, and “Cuddle Day” with a long lap nap.

Add Your Own Holiday Touch

To make your cat advent calendar stand out, add personal touches. Small bows, festive cloth scraps, or hand-painted designs give each daily treat a warm, homemade vibe. Plus, it adds a bit of holiday cheer to your home decor. A small tag with a handwritten message such as “Today’s mission: pounce!” is a charming detail that makes great photos.

Try a DIY Puzzle Version

For clever cats, convert some days into treat puzzles. Hide a few pieces of kibble inside a cardboard box with holes cut in the sides, or use a cat treat puzzle feeder for a mentally challenging reward. Puzzle days are ideal for slowing down fast eaters and keeping smart cats busy.

Safe Tips for Cat Treats and Toys

While filling your advent calendar, keep safety in mind:

• Avoid small parts: Only include items large enough to prevent choking.
• Limit treats: Moderation is essential; stick to a few small treats per day to keep your cat healthy.
• Supervise playtime: For toys with strings or small parts, supervise your cat to avoid accidental ingestion or injury.

Never include these in your calendar:

• Chocolate, coffee, and caffeine
• Onions, garlic, and chives
• Grapes and raisins
• Anything sweetened with xylitol
• Alcohol and raw dough
• Tinsel, loose string, yarn, or ribbon, which can cause serious intestinal blockages if swallowed
• Essential oils and scented candles near the calendar

Also, introduce new foods slowly. A sudden change can cause an upset stomach, so if your cat has never tried a particular treat, offer a tiny piece well before the calendar begins. If you notice vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, stop and contact your veterinarian. And always check treat labels for complete, high-quality ingredients with a named protein source listed first.

How to Engage Your Cat with the Advent Calendar

Introduce your cat to the calendar gradually. Let them explore the bags, sniff out the treats, and even paw at the items. You might open each day’s treat in front of your cat or hide it to let them ‘hunt’ for the surprise. This interaction adds an extra layer of enrichment, making the holidays even more engaging for your pet.

A few more ways to boost the fun:

• Use scent games. Rub a bag lightly with a catnip-scented cloth to build anticipation.
• Try a treat trail. Place small pieces of treat around the room and let your cat follow the scent.
• Rotate toys. Put away yesterday’s toy for a few days, then bring it back. It will feel brand new.
• Take photos or videos. A daily “unboxing” of your cat’s present is a lovely keepsake and shareable moment.

Adjusting Your Calendar for Different Cats

Multi-Cat Homes

Make one calendar per cat, or at least separate rewards, to prevent competition. Open each bag in a different spot, or feed cats in separate rooms so no one feels left out or guards a treat.

Kittens

Choose kitten-appropriate treats and keep portions tiny. Kittens love chasing toys, so focus on play rather than food. Supervise closely, as kittens tend to chew everything.

Senior Cats

Older cats may prefer soft, easy-to-chew treats and gentle activities. Replace high-energy toys with cozy rewards, like a soft blanket or a calming brushing session.

Picky or Health-Restricted Cats

If your cat is on a special diet, fill the calendar with non-food rewards such as toys, play time, grooming, and attention. You can also use a few of your cat’s regular kibble pieces as “treats.” That way, everyone gets to take part safely.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

• My cat tears the calendar down. Move it higher, or keep the bags in a closed container and display only an empty decorative version.
• My cat ignores the treats. Try a different texture or flavor, or switch to a play-based reward.
• My cat gets too excited. Open the bag after a calm moment and keep the treats small. A short play session beforehand can burn off extra energy.
• I forgot a day. Don’t worry. Offer a double reward, or simply continue the next day. Your cat won’t mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to make a DIY cat advent calendar?

Most people spend $15–$40. Using recycled boxes and a mix of low-cost toys and a few treats keeps the price down.

When should I start the advent calendar?

Begin on December 1 and finish on December 24. If you celebrate another holiday or want a longer countdown, adjust the number of bags to fit.

How many treats should my cat get each day?

Keep treats to about 10% of your cat’s daily calories. Check the package for calorie information, and if in doubt, ask your veterinarian.

Can I make a cat advent calendar without treats?

Absolutely. Fill it with toys, play sessions, catnip, grooming time, and cuddles.

Is catnip safe for cats?

Yes, catnip is generally considered safe for cats. Offer it in small amounts, and note that not all cats react to it. Silvervine is a popular alternative.

Wrapping Up Your Festive DIY Cat Advent Calendar

Creating a DIY cat advent calendar is a fun, rewarding project that brings holiday cheer to your entire household. As your cat experiences the daily surprises, you’ll create lasting memories and strengthen the bond you share. This calendar is more than just treats; it’s a way to spread joy and show love for your feline friend.

With the right mix of creativity, treats, and love, this advent calendar will delight your cat all December long. So, gather your supplies, grab some festive cat toys, and get ready for a holiday season filled with purrs, play, and festive fun!