Ehno Cat - DIY Custom Weight Empty Lap Pad

Your new best friend!

Not one to turn down a nap, Ehno makes a fabulous weighted lap animal. He's the perfect calming companion. He loves to cuddle and take naps on your lap, sit with you while you eat, and take short car rides. He's got an ultra-soft coat and a minky dot belly that encourages tactile exploration. 

His eyes, nose, and mouth are all threaded, meaning no hard plastic bits can hurt you or fall off. There are very few pieces sewn on, meaning if you decide to hold Ehno by just his arm as you carry him around, it won't fall off! Just try to avoid holding him by his ears, he hates that!

This version of Ehno comes empty with a specially designed custom insert. You can choose your preferred filler (learn about different filler options here) and customize the weight to best suit your needs, whether you need a 1lb lap pad or a 12lb lap pad. The empty inner insert zips open/closed and features a unique zig zag design to keep the filler evenly distributed. Easily open it up to empty it out or adjust the weight.

Like our pre-filled options, this version of Ehno helps provide proprioceptive feedback that helps you focus and self-regulate. He zips open along the side of his back so you can easily remove and fill his insert or carry additional things inside of him, if you want (like fidget toys, a pillow, or additional weight). The insert attaches to the outer shell inside via 7 thoughtfully placed snaps and loops (like a duvet!), which help keep the insert in place and the weight evenly distributed. 

 

Weighted lap pads have been known to help with:

• Mood
• Attention/Focus
• Tactile seeking
• Tactile defensiveness
• Touch deprivation
• Travel
• Sitting Still
• Sleep*

Details:

• Dimensions: 23.5" x 16"
• Weight: empty, customizable
• Fabric: 100% polyester
• Care: Hand wash. Air dry. Ensure insert and filler are dry before reinserting the insert.

 

** Our DIY Custom Weight Lap Pads are a great budget weighted lap pad option. They come empty, unweighted. You will need to choose a filler and add weight yourself once you receive your order. There are many cheap filler options, you may already have some at home.

 

Not sure if you want our 5lb weighted lap pad or our DIY custom weight version? Read our comparison here. 

 

For use with adult guidance. Never use to cover the face or restrict a child's movement.

Recommended for children age 5+ weighing 50lbs+. Follow the recommended age and weight guidelines. Weight should be carefully considered for each person's needs (5%-10% of total body weight is a common standard. Total weight should never exceed 15% of total body weight).

*It is not recommended for young children to sleep with weighted products. For anyone who wishes to use it for sleep, please ensure the user can very easily move it and lift it on their own, and that they have the awareness to move it on their own.

What weight do I need?

It's recommended to use 5%-10% of your total body weight (so 5-10lbs per 100lbs). Total weight should not exceed 15% of total body weight. However some prefer theirs to be under 5% of their body weight. It's really up to each individual to find the right weight for them.

Are these washable?

Both the outer shell and the inner inserts can be hand washed and air dried. Make sure the insert (and weight if applicable) are dry before reinserting into the animal shell.

Are the 5lb and DIY versions different sizes?

No, each animal regardless of internal weight is 23.5in x 16in x approximately 0.75" (depending on the filler used).

How do I fill the DIY insert?

Great question! It's actually really easy. Depending on the size of your filler, we recommend using a funnel and pouring or a cup (or spoon or ladle) and scooping it in. If you're using something larger as your filler, like rocks, you may just want to use your hands. It helps if have someone assist you, but you can do it by yourself too! Check out our video to watch us fill one.

Do you sell the inserts by themselves?

We do offer the empty (DIY) insert by itself. You can view it here. However, we do not offer the 5lb insert by itself at this time.

Are any of the animals different sizes?

Nope! While we offer 5lb and DIY weight options, all 3 animals are the same size.

What is the weight used in the 5lb weighted version?

Glass microbeads.

Can I heat/cool my pet and use it as a heating pad or a cold pack?

Please do not try to heat or freeze your pet. However, you can easily insert your own (already heated) heating pad or (already frozen) cold pack into the animal shell to dress it up!

Weighted lap pads are best used intermittently as the body and brain will adjust to the feeling of the weight over time. Experts generally recommend no more than 20 minutes at a time. But it doesn’t have to be 20 minutes, 5 minutes might be good enough for some. It’s up to each individual to determine how long is best for them.

For more about weighted lap pads, please check out our blog post which addresses:

Why choose a weighted lap pad?

Who benefits from weighted lap pads?

How to be safe using weighted products

How to use a weighted lap pad at school

What to consider when buying a weighted lap pad