Cat Chase Ball Track Toy Project

The Cat Chase Ball Track Toy is a fun project that Scouts can make from simple items. It works well for Bears, Webelos, and Arrow of Light Scouts. This project teaches how to reuse materials and build something useful. It fits with Scouting goals of creativity, skill building, and helping others.

This toy is made from plastic containers and a ball. It is easy to put together with a little help. Scouts can build it in a meeting or at home. When it is finished, they can give it to someone who has a cat. It is a fun way to help others and bring joy to a pet.

This project supports Scouting values like kindness and service. Scouts can make the toy and then donate it to a pet shelter or give it to a friend or neighbor with a cat. It helps them learn to think of others and use their time and skills to do good.

This is also a low-cost project. Most of the materials can be found at home or reused from packaging. It teaches Scouts to look at things in a new way. With a little cutting and gluing, they turn simple items into a toy that really works.

Cats have always liked to chase things. Long ago, people noticed that cats would swat at strings, small objects, and anything that rolled. This led to the idea of making toys that move in circles or roll in place. It helps keep cats busy and happy.

Over time, people started to design toys that let the ball move but not get lost. That’s how the ball track toy was born. The ball stays inside the track, so the cat can chase it again and again. No need to fetch it from under the couch!

Some store-bought toys use fancy shapes or lights. But the basic idea is simple—a ball that rolls around in a circle while staying inside. People began to make their own versions at home. Now Scouts can build one too, using everyday items.

This project from Computer Mice is a great way to reuse clear plastic lids and a small ball. It works well, and cats enjoy it just like the store version. It shows that a good idea doesn’t have to be fancy. It just has to work.

This project teaches Scouts to use what they have. They learn that you don’t always need new supplies. With a little thinking, they can turn trash into something useful. This helps them build good habits and learn to waste less.

Scouts also learn to follow steps and work carefully. They must cut, line up, and glue the parts. These steps help them practice fine motor skills. It’s also a good way to teach patience.

This is a great project for showing kindness. Scouts can give the toy to a pet shelter or someone with a cat. They see how their work can help others. It’s a small act, but it teaches them to care.

Scouts also feel proud when they see the toy work. They made something that a pet can enjoy. That builds confidence. It also shows them that building things can be fun and helpful.

Materials and Equipment:

• 2 clear plastic lids with rims (same size)
• 1 small plastic bowl
• 1 ping pong ball or small plastic ball
• Scissors or craft knife
• Glue (hot glue or strong craft glue)
• Tape (optional for holding while glue dries)

Instructions:

1. Cut a small hole in the center of one plastic lid. This is where the bowl will fit in.
2. Glue the small bowl upside down into the hole you just cut. Let it dry.
3. Cut one or two small openings on the rim of the lid. These are for the cat to reach in.
4. Place the ball inside the ring formed by the rim of the lid.
5. Put the second lid on top, rim side down, to match the first lid and hold the ball in.
6. Glue the top lid in place. Make sure it lines up well and is secure.
7. Let the glue dry fully before using.

Safety Notes:

• An adult should help with cutting and gluing.
• Make sure there are no sharp edges. Sand or tape them if needed.
• Always check that the glue is dry before giving the toy to a cat.

Project Tips and Variations:

• You can decorate the toy with stickers or markers.
• Use different size balls or lids to change the look.
• Try using recycled containers from food packaging.
• Make more than one and donate extras to an animal shelter.

Click here for a printable copy of the Cat Chase Ball Track Toy Directions

Projects for Scouts

If your Scouts liked making the Cat Chase Ball Track Toy, there are many more fun and easy projects they can try. These types of hands-on activities help them build skills and stay engaged. Projects like this are great for den meetings, pack events, or simple crafts to do at home with family.

You can find more ideas on my website at this link. The page includes a variety of projects that are simple to set up and use low-cost materials. Each one is designed to help Scouts learn, create, and have a good time while doing something useful.

Crafting Connections: The Importance of Creative Projects in Scouting

What age group is this project good for?

This project is best for Bears, Webelos, and Arrow of Light Scouts. Younger Scouts will need help with cutting and gluing.

What kind of ball should we use?

A ping pong ball or any small plastic ball works well. Make sure it fits and rolls inside the track.

Can we use glue sticks instead of hot glue?

Hot glue works better because it holds the plastic tightly. Craft glue may not stick as well. An adult should handle the hot glue.

What if we don’t have the same plastic lids?

You can try different sizes, but they should match. Both lids need rims to hold the ball inside.

Is this safe for cats?

Yes, if you smooth all rough edges and make sure the glue is dry. Always check the toy before giving it to a cat.

Can we decorate the toy?

Yes. Use stickers or markers, but keep them positioned so cats don’t chew them.

Can we make more and give them away?

Yes! This is a great service project. You can donate them to animal shelters or give them to neighbors with cats.

The Cat Chase Ball Track Toy is a fun and useful craft that Scouts can make with simple supplies. It uses two plastic lids, a small bowl, and a ping pong ball. The ball stays inside the track, so it keeps rolling around when a cat bats at it. It’s a great homemade toy for pets.

Scouts learn to follow directions, use tools safely, and work with care. They also practice thinking about how to reuse materials. This teaches good habits and helps them see how everyday items can become something new.

This project can also be used for service. Scouts can donate the finished toys to animal shelters or give them to friends with cats. It’s a small project, but it makes a difference.

It fits well in den meetings or small group settings. With a little adult help, most Scouts can do the steps. The finished toy works well and is fun to give away or keep at home for a family pet.