How to Make a Christmas Stocking Your Cat Will Actually Love

Christmas isn’t just for the humans, our feline friends deserve a little festive magic too! No two cats are alike: one might go wild for catnip, another prefers a quiet nap, and some need special diets or allergy friendly treats. That’s why a homemade stocking can sometimes be more meaningful. Making a Christmas stocking for your cat is a fun, creative project that the whole family can enjoy. They deserve a stocking filled with love, thought and a few of their favourite things.

In this article, we’ll guide you through creating a purrrsonalised (sorry not sorry) cat Christmas stocking filled with goodies chosen specifically for your cat’s tastes, needs and personality. From safe homemade treats and favourite toys, to cosy comforts and enrichment ideas that keep them active and engaged. Every cat deserves a gift that’s as unique as they are.

Why make a homemade stocking?

Just like people, cats have their own unique quirks. Some are playful, others are fussy and some require special diets or allergy safe food. A homemade stocking allows you to choose every item with your cat’s well-being in mind, eliminating any concerns about ingredients and safety. It’s also a lovely way to celebrate their individuality, especially if you have more than one cat. Each cat can have their own stocking filled with their favourite goodies, sounds ideal doesn’t it? 

What to include in your cat’s stocking?

Cats may seem independent, but they thrive on mental stimulation and interactive play. Including items that encourage movement, curiosity, and problem-solving supports their well-being and keeps them happy. Even simple ideas like hiding treats inside a cardboard box or wrapping a toy in tissue paper can turn gift opening into a playful adventure. Enrichment helps your cat stay active, reduces boredom (and mischief!), and strengthens the bond you share, the perfect Christmas gift for both of you.

Here are some thoughtful ideas to help you create the perfect mix:

Homemade or special diet treats

If your cat has allergies or dietary needs, consider making your own treats using safe ingredients such as tuna, chicken or pumpkin. There are plenty of simple recipes online Alternatively, choose vet approved, sensitive tummy friendly treats. Present them in a festive paper bag or small Christmas jar for an extra special touch. Whether it’s lickable snacks, festive flavours or their go-to nibbles, treats are a must have.

A festive treat

Why not include a special Christmas dinner for your cat? You can prepare a simple, safe dish such as shredded chicken or turkey, plain pumpkin or a small serving of fish (no onions, garlic, seasoning or other harmful ingredients). If cooking isn’t your thing, there are plenty of high-quality, store bought ‘cat Christmas dinners’ made with vet approved ingredients. Sitting down together side by side can make your cat feel part of the festivities.

Favourite toys

Cats can be as fussy about toys as some children are about their dinner! Some adore feather wands, others prefer ping-pong balls or knitted mice. Choose toys that suit your cat’s play style or make your own. A wool pom-pom or a felt fish stuffed with catnip can be a fun DIY option. Just avoid loose string, ribbon or small parts that could be swallowed. Toys are perfect for keeping your cat mentally and physically stimulated. 

Catnip

Do all cats love catnip? Not quite – around 60-80 percent of cats have the gene that makes them react to catnip. If yours is a catnip fiend, adding a catnip toy to their stocking will definitely be met with open paws.

Cosy comforts

A soft new blanket or plush bed makes a practical and heartwarming stocking filler. It gives your cat a cosy spot to curl up on after all the excitement, ideal for snoozing under the tree.

Interactive toys

Wand toys are wonderful for bonding and mimic hunting behaviour. They also keep your hands at a safe distance from claws and teeth, much better for both of you...

Puzzle feeders

Puzzle feeders are excellent for mental stimulation, especially for indoor cats. Whether they need to slide, roll or paw food from compartments, it’s a great way to keep them occupied while you enjoy your own holiday games. 

Crinkle toys

Toys with crinkly textures and bright colours captivate cats and provide sensory enrichment.  

Rolling or treat dispensing toys

Simple balls can encourage exercise or curiosity For extra fun, upgrade to a treat dispensing version, the reward of food keeps them happily engaged.

Grooming tools

If your cat enjoys being brushed, treat them to a new grooming tool. It’s a great bonding activity and helps keep their coat in top condition. 

Multi-cat households

The beauty of a homemade stocking is how easily you can personalise them. If one cat prefers napping, fill theirs with soft treats and a cosy blanket. If another loves to hunt, focus on chase worthy toys and interactive play items. Each cat gets something special just like they deserve. 

How to keep your DIY cat Christmas stocking safe

While it’s tempting to spoil your cat at Christmas, a few simple precautions help keep the holidays fun and safe:

• Avoid ribbons, tinsel or stringy decorations inside the stocking – they can be irresistible to some cats but can cause dangerous intestinal blockages if swallowed.

• Skip small or loose parts (such as glued-on eyes or bells) – these can be chewed off and ingested.

• Check ingredients carefully – avoid chocolate, onions, garlic, raisins or anything containing sweeteners such as xylitol.

• Supervise catnip play – some cats can get way too excited!

• Introduce new foods gradually – always watch for allergies or tummy upsets.

Making a personalised Christmas stocking for your cat isn’t just about what’s inside, it’s a celebration of their personalities, needs and the joy they bring to your home. Whether you fill it with homemade treats, favourite toys or cosy comforts, your cat will love the attention (and probably the tissue paper too!).

Stocking filler inspiration 

Here are some fun and festive products to help fill your cats stocking this year.

Our editors (and their pets) picked out these products. They’re always in stock at the time we publish, but there’s a chance they’ll sell out. If you do buy through our links, we may earn a commission.

Thrive Cat Treats with Chicken

$3.79

One hundred percent natural, additive-free snacks made from real meat or fish. Freeze dried to lock in goodness and flavour. Available in multiple varieties, just hide the tub, or it might get ‘hunted’!

$3.79 at Animed

Santa Paws Gift Box

$4.5

As many pet parents will know, cats adore boxes! This reusable option from Hobbycraft doubles as a sneaky hiding place after gift time, practical and playful.

$4.5 at Hobbycraft

King Catnip Sardine Cat Toy

$7.49

Ethically sourced North American cat nip with an irresistible aroma, and in a cutesy sardine shape – ideal for catnip lovers.

$7.49 at Pets Corner

Go Cat Feather Toys Da Bird Teaser Cat Toy

$8

Interactive wand toy with interchangeable attachments for safe, hands free play. 

$8 at Pets at Home

LickiMat Felix Fish-Shaped Cat Slow Feeder

$8

A fun alternative to a food bowl. Helps reduce whisker fatigue, slows eating and keeps your cat engaged.

$8 at Pets at Home

Catit PIXI Treat Dispenser Toy

$5

An adorable wobbling, reward-based toy that keeps cats active and entertained while you enjoy your Christmas dinner.

$5 at CatIt