Creating a Pet friendly home on a budget

Tip 1: DIY beds and blankets. 

Pets love cosy spots to curl up. 

• Repurpose old blankets or pillows for a comfy bed. 

• Use a folded doona or cushion in a quiet corner. 

• Washable covers make clean-up easy and cheap. 

Tip 2: Cheap but safe toys. 

Entertainment doesn't have to cost much! 

• Empty cardboard boxes = hours of cat fun (make sure to remove labels and tape)

• Knotted old t-shirts make great dog tug toys

• Paper towel rolls can be filled with hay or treats for rabbits

Tip 3: Second-hand bargains. 

Check op-shops, Facebook marketplace, and garage sales. 

• Gently used pet crates, gates, beds, and toys. 

• Great for growing puppies who quickly outgrow things. 

• Always wash and inspect for safety first. 

Tip 4: Easy DIY enrichment ideas. 

• Treat treasure hunts around the house. 

• DIY snuffle mats with old fabric strips. 

• Frozen treats or KONGs stuffed with leftovers. 

Tip 5: Create safe zones. 

Pets love their own space to retreat to. 

• A crate or box with soft bedding

• High shelves or perches for cats

• Quiet corners away from busy areas for small pets

Tip 6: Affordable scratchers and climbers. 

Cats need to scratch! 

• Wrap sisal rope around old furniture legs. 

• Make scratching boards with cardboard layers.

• Build simple shelves for cat climbing. 

Tip 7: Budget-Friendly Fencing. 

Keep pets safe outside without big costs. 

• Portable exercise pens for small dogs or rabbits.

• Check local Buy-Swap-Sell for used fencing panels.

• Use garden stakes and wire mesh for temporary enclosures.

Tip 8: Repurpose Household items. 

• Old laundry baskets for small pet hideaways

• Suitcases of crates turned into pet beds

• Curtain rods for DIY cat perches

Tip 9: Make feeding time fun. 

• Slow-feed bowls to make meals last

• DIY treat puzzles with egg cartons or muffin tins

• Scatter feeding on safe surfaces for foraging fun.

Tip 10: Keep it clean on a budget. 

• Washable mats under food/water bowls.

• Vinegar and water solution for safe, cheap cleaning.

• Old towels for muddy paws and drying off.

Final thought. 

Creating a pet-friendly home doesn't mean spending lots of money; it's about understanding what your pet needs to be happy, safe, and relaxed. With a little imagination and love, you can transform your space into a true haven for your furry (or feathered!) family members. 

If you'd like help coming up with tailored ideas for your pet, feel free to reach out. I'd love to chat.