DIY Pet First Aid Kit for Cats and Dogs: Everyday Items You Already Have at Home
Scroll down to the infographic at the end of the list and pin it to your board so you always have it handy.
Dear Pet Mom,
Accidents and emergencies can happen when we least expect them. As pet moms and dads, we want to feel prepared, but the idea of buying a full first aid kit can feel overwhelming or expensive. The good news? You probably already have most of what you need right at home.
In this post, I’ll show you how to put together a simple DIY pet first aid kit for your cat or dog using everyday household items, plus 3 additional essentials that are worth keeping on hand. Think of it as your starting point for peace of mind, so you know you can handle those “just in case” moments until you can get to the vet.
Why a DIY Pet First Aid Kit is a Smart First Step
Quick peace of mind: You’ll feel more confident handling small accidents.
Budget-friendly: No need to spend a fortune. Just gather from what you already own.
Ready for the unexpected: Whether it’s a scraped paw, upset tummy, or sudden stress, you’ll have tools at your fingertips.
Household Items You Likely Already Have
Here’s what to gather today for your DIY kit:
Clean towel or old T-shirt – for wrapping, drying, or providing comfort
Tape (medical, masking, or athletic) – to secure makeshift bandages
Scissors – for cutting bandages or trimming fur around a wound
Tweezers – to remove ticks, splinters, or small debris
Gloves – to keep your hands clean and safe when handling injuries
Flashlight (or your phone light) – to check ears, eyes, or paws
Digital thermometer – to check for fever or sudden temperature drops
Pet treats – to help calm your cat or dog during stressful moments
Save this checklist to your Pinterest board so you’ll always have the DIY pet first aid kit essentials handy.
These basics are things you likely already have at home. But to really round out your DIY kit, there are 3 additional essentials I recommend adding. They’re inexpensive and make a big difference in an emergency.
3 Additional Essentials for Your DIY Kit
Pet-safe antiseptic wipes or spray – gentle enough for pets, great for cleaning minor cuts.
Self-adhering bandage (vet wrap) – won’t stick to fur, perfect for temporary wrapping.
Pre-made saline solution – for rinsing wounds or eyes safely
How to Assemble Your DIY Pet First Aid Kit
Pick a container: a basket, tote, or even a small lunch box works.
Store in an easy-to-grab spot at home.
Add a label so family members know it’s for pets.
Optional: make a smaller travel version to keep in your car.
DIY Kit vs. Professional Care
Your kit is for immediate support and comfort, and is not meant to replace veterinary care. Always call your vet for guidance, and head straight there for:
Heavy bleeding
Broken bones
Seizures
Severe vomiting/diarrhea
If your pet seems to be in pain or distress
Think of the kit as a first step, not a replacement for professional help.
Next Steps
Now that you’ve created a DIY kit with household items and added the 3 extra essentials, you’ll feel prepared for those “just in case” moments.
👉 If you’d like to take your kit to the next level, check out my guide on the 5 Must-Have Items in Every Pet First Aid Kit. These are vet-recommended supplies that make your kit truly complete.
If you’d like to learn the basics of Pet First Aid so you’re better prepared in case of an emergency, I recommend downloading my FREE Pet First Aid Starter Guide. It includes a handy checklist, plus a few tips you’ll want to keep close.
Conclusion
Putting together a DIY pet first aid kit doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. By gathering a few simple items you already own, plus adding those 3 extra essentials, you can feel prepared, confident, and ready to care for your cat or dog in those “just in case” moments.
Because being a pet parent isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about being there when our fur babies need us most.
