How to Make Cat Treats at Home: Healthy and Delicious Recipes

Homemade cat treats are the purrfect way to show your feline friends some extra love. Made with wholesome ingredients, these treats are not only delicious but also nutritious. Whether your cat loves tuna, salmon, or chicken, there’s a recipe here that will make their whiskers twitch with delight. Dive into these easy-to-follow recipes and discover how simple it is to make healthy, homemade cat treats that your pet will adore.

Key Takeaways

• Homemade cat treats are a healthy and delicious way to treat your feline friends.
• Using wholesome ingredients like tuna, salmon, and chicken ensures your cat gets the nutrients they need.
• Making your own cat treats allows you to control the ingredients and avoid additives.
• Each recipe is easy to follow and requires minimal ingredients and effort.
• Homemade treats should complement your cat’s diet and not replace their regular meals.

Whisker-Lickin’ Tuna Treats

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make these Whisker-Lickin’ Tuna Treats, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 (4-oz.) can of tuna in spring water, well-drained and flaked
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon dried catnip
• 1 large egg

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure your oven is nice and toasty, just like your cat’s favorite sunspot.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the flaked tuna, flour, dried catnip, and egg. Mix until you have a dough that’s as smooth as your cat’s purr.
3. Roll the dough into small balls or flatten it out and use a cookie cutter to create fun shapes. Fish shapes are always a hit!
4. Place the treats on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure they’re spaced out, so they don’t stick together like your cat and their favorite toy.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the treats are golden brown. Your kitchen will smell so good, even the neighbor’s cat might come over!
6. Let the treats cool completely before serving them to your feline friend. Patience is a virtue, even for cats!

Storage Tips

To keep these treats fresh and tasty, store them in an airtight container. They can be kept at room temperature for up to a week. For longer storage, you can refrigerate them for up to two weeks or freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to thaw them before serving, unless your cat enjoys a frosty snack!

Pro Tip: If you want to make a larger batch, simply double or triple the ingredients. Your cat will thank you with extra purrs and headbutts!

For more delightful cat treat recipes, check out CatsLuvUs. Your kitty will be purring with joy!

Purrfectly Pumpkin and Turkey Bites

Why Pumpkin is a Superfood for Cats

If you’ve got leftover Thanksgiving or Christmas turkey to use up, or a Halloween pumpkin that is still fresh and you don’t want to see go to waste, this recipe is a dream for using up leftovers. What better way to share the holiday cheer with your kitty than making them these delicious and healthy treats for cats?

Scroll down for the recipe, or if you’d like to join me in getting excited about the three wonder-ingredients in our healthy cat snacks, let me tell you a little bit more about them.

Mixing and Baking Instructions

• 3.5 ounces of pumpkin, grated
• ¼ cup of cornmeal
• 3.5 ounces of ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken, no additives)
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon of catnip (dry, not fresh leaves)

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Line a baking tray with baking paper.

Combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl. Roll into 1-inch balls and place on the baking tray and cook for 30 minutes. Check the meat is cooked all the way through by cutting one of the balls in half. Allow to cool before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serving Size: 1 meatball per cat, twice per week

At this time of year, there’s always plenty of pumpkin in the supermarket, and this is one vegetable (although technically a fruit!) that is really kind to a cat’s digestive system, especially for those that suffer from hairballs or constipation.

• Serving Size: 3 ounces per cat, once or twice per week

Salmon Snacks That Make Cats Go Wild

Health Benefits of Salmon for Cats

When it comes to feline cuisine, salmon is a pawsome choice! Not only is it delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients that can keep your kitty in tip-top shape. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining a healthy coat and skin. These fatty acids can also help reduce inflammation and support joint health, making it a great option for older cats or those with arthritis.

In addition to omega-3s, salmon is a great source of high-quality protein. Protein is crucial for muscle development and repair, and it can also help keep your cat feeling full and satisfied. Plus, the natural oils in salmon can help improve your cat’s cognitive function and support a healthy immune system.

Here’s a quick rundown of the key nutrients found in salmon and their benefits for cats:

Nutrient	Benefit
Omega-3 Fatty Acids	Healthy coat and skin, reduced inflammation
Protein	Muscle development and repair
Natural Oils	Improved cognitive function, immune support

How to Prepare the Salmon

Preparing salmon for your feline friend is easier than you might think. First, you’ll want to choose a high-quality salmon fillet. Wild-caught salmon is generally considered the best option, as it tends to have higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids and fewer contaminants than farmed salmon.

Once you’ve got your salmon, follow these simple steps to prepare it for your cat:

1. Remove the skin and bones: While some cats might enjoy the skin, it’s best to remove it to avoid any potential choking hazards. Be sure to also remove any bones, as these can be dangerous for your cat.
2. Cook the salmon: You can either bake, steam, or poach the salmon. Avoid using any seasonings, as these can be harmful to cats. Cook the salmon until it’s fully opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
3. Let it cool: Allow the salmon to cool completely before serving it to your cat. This will help prevent any burns or discomfort.
4. Flake the salmon: Use a fork to break the salmon into small, bite-sized pieces that are easy for your cat to eat.

Baking the Treats

Now that your salmon is prepared, it’s time to turn it into delicious cat treats! Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooked salmon, flaked
• 1 egg
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 tablespoon dried catnip (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the flaked salmon, egg, and whole wheat flour. Mix until a dough forms. If the dough is too dry, you can add a little water to help it come together.
3. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
4. Use a small cookie cutter or knife to cut the dough into bite-sized shapes. You can get creative with the shapes – think fish, stars, or even little cat faces!
5. Place the treats on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If you’re using catnip, sprinkle a little on top of each treat.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the treats are golden brown and crispy.
7. Allow the treats to cool completely before serving them to your cat.

Remember, these treats are meant to be a special snack for your cat and should not replace their regular meals. Moderation is key to keeping your kitty healthy and happy!

If you make this recipe, be sure to upload a photo in the comment section below or leave a rating. Bonus points if you share a picture of your cats! Enjoy! You can also [jump to recipe](https://catsluvus.com).

Cheesy Catnip Croutons

Combining Cheese and Catnip

Who knew that combining cheese and catnip could create such a purrfect treat for our feline friends? To get started, you’ll need a few simple ingredients: a 425g can of tuna, drained; 1 tablespoon of dried catnip; 1-2 tablespoons of water; 1 cup of coconut flour; 1 egg; and 1 tablespoon of extra light olive oil. Mix all these ingredients in a food processor until you get a dough-like consistency. If the mixture is too dry, add a bit more water. If it’s too wet, sprinkle in some more coconut flour.

Shaping and Baking

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced). Pinch the mixture into small crouton shapes and place them on a biscuit tray lined with baking paper. Bake the croutons in the oven for approximately 12-15 minutes until they have browned. Allow them to cool completely before feeding them to your feline.

How to Store Your Croutons

Once your cheesy catnip croutons have cooled, store them in an airtight container in your fridge. They should be good for up to 7 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them and thaw as needed. Just make sure to keep them away from your own snacks, or you might find yourself in a cat-astrophic situation!

Chicken and Cornmeal Crunchies

We all know that cats are purr-ticularly fond of chicken. It’s like the holy grail of feline cuisine. But why do our furry friends go absolutely bonkers for this poultry delight? Well, chicken is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients that keep our kitties healthy and happy. Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is crucial for maintaining strong muscles and a healthy weight. Plus, it’s easy to digest, making it perfect for cats with sensitive stomachs.

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of making these scrumptious treats. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 can of chicken (5 ounces)
• 1/2 cup of cornmeal
• 1 egg

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced). Line a baking tray with baking paper and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, cornmeal, and egg. Mix well until you get a sticky dough.
3. Form the dough into teaspoon-sized balls and place them on the lined baking tray. Lightly flatten the balls into discs with your hand or a spoon.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown.
5. Allow the treats to cool completely before serving them to your kitty.

Baking these treats is a breeze, but there are a few tips to ensure they come out purr-fectly every time. First, make sure your oven is properly preheated to 180°C (160°C fan-forced). This ensures even cooking and a nice, crispy texture. Also, keep an eye on the treats while they’re baking. You want them to be golden brown, not burnt. Finally, let them cool completely before serving. This not only makes them safer for your cat to eat but also enhances the crunchiness that cats love.

Remember, these chicken and cornmeal homemade cat treats from Sustainable Slow Living are not only delicious but also super easy to make. With just three ingredients, you can whip up a tasty surprise for your kitty in no time!

For more delightful cat treat recipes, check out CatsLuvUs. Your kitty will thank you!

Tuna and Sweet Potato Delights

Nutritional Benefits of Sweet Potato

Sweet potatoes are not just a tasty treat for humans; they are also packed with nutrients that can benefit our feline friends. Rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, and B6, and antioxidants, sweet potatoes can help support your cat’s digestive health and immune system. Plus, they add a natural sweetness to the treats that cats find irresistible. If your cat has been turning up their nose at their usual snacks, these sweet potato delights might just be the answer!

Preparing the Mixture

To prepare these delightful treats, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 can of tuna (in water, drained)
• 1/2 cup of mashed sweet potato
• 1/2 cup of whole wheat flour
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna and mashed sweet potato. Mix well until the tuna is broken down into small pieces.
3. Add the whole wheat flour, egg, and vegetable oil to the bowl. Stir until all the ingredients are well combined and form a dough.
4. Roll the dough into small balls or flatten it out and cut it into fun shapes using a cookie cutter.
5. Place the treats on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Baking and Serving

Bake the treats in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch. Let them cool completely before serving them to your cat. These treats can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Remember, moderation is key. While these treats are healthy, they should not replace your cat’s regular meals. Treats should make up no more than 10% of your cat’s daily caloric intake.

For more delicious and healthy cat treat recipes, check out CatsLuvUs. Your cat will thank you with purrs and headbutts!

Discover the perfect blend of flavors with our Tuna and Sweet Potato Delights! This delicious recipe is sure to be a hit with your feline friends. Don’t miss out on more amazing recipes and tips for your cats. Visit our website today!

Conclusion

Well, there you have it, folks! A whisker-lickin’ guide to making your own cat treats at home. Whether your feline friend is a fan of tuna, salmon, or even a bit of catnip, these recipes are sure to make them purr with delight. Remember, while these treats are the cat’s meow, they should only be a small part of your kitty’s diet. So, don your chef’s hat, grab those fish-shaped cookie cutters, and get ready to become your cat’s favorite human. After all, a happy cat means a happy home. Paws and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are homemade cat treats safe for my cat?

Yes, homemade cat treats can be safe for your cat as long as you use cat-friendly ingredients and avoid harmful substances like onions, garlic, and chocolate.

How long can I store homemade cat treats?

Homemade cat treats can typically be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months.

Can I use regular flour in cat treat recipes?

Yes, you can use regular flour in cat treat recipes, but whole wheat flour or other whole grain flours are often recommended for added nutritional benefits.

Is it okay to use human food ingredients in cat treats?

Many human food ingredients are safe for cats, but always check to ensure they are non-toxic to felines. Avoid ingredients like onions, garlic, chocolate, and excessive salt.

How often can I give my cat homemade treats?

Homemade treats should be given in moderation and should not make up more than 10% of your cat’s daily caloric intake to ensure a balanced diet.

Can I substitute ingredients in the cat treat recipes?

Yes, you can substitute some ingredients, but make sure the substitutes are safe for cats. For example, you can use salmon instead of tuna or rice flour instead of wheat flour.