Cats can be picky eaters.
Giving them packaged pet food isn’t always the right way to go.
While it might be convenient, it isn’t beneficial.
Because they are highly processed, they might lose their nutritional benefits.
Thus, we bring to you a collection of 10 homemade cat treats that your cat will love.
1. Tuna Bites
How to Prepare:
Drain a can of tuna in water and mix it with 1 egg and 2 tablespoons of oat flour. Blend everything into a dough-like consistency. Roll into small bite-sized balls or flatten into discs.
Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10–12 minutes until firm. Let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the fridge.
Why It’s Useful:
Tuna is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are excellent for your cat’s skin, coat, and joints. These treats also contain protein and minimal ingredients, making them ideal for cats with sensitive stomachs or food allergies.
The aroma of tuna also appeals to fussy eaters, encouraging them to snack or engage in training.
2. Chicken Jerky Strips
How to Prepare:
Take a boneless, skinless chicken breast and slice it into thin strips (about 1/4 inch thick). Place the strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake them at a low temperature of 200°F (90°C) for 2–3 hours, flipping once midway, until fully dehydrated and dry. Let cool and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Why It’s Useful:
This treat is 100% lean protein—no grains, fillers, or preservatives. It’s perfect for cats on high-protein diets and helps support muscle strength. The chewy texture also promotes dental health by lightly scrubbing the teeth during chewing.
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3. Salmon Crunchies
How to Prepare:
Mash 1/2 cup of canned salmon (drained), add 1 egg, 1 tablespoon of coconut flour, and a pinch of catnip (optional). Mix well and form small pellets or press into silicone molds.
Bake at 325°F (160°C) for 15–20 minutes until crunchy and golden. Allow to cool before serving.
Why It’s Useful:
Salmon is packed with beneficial fats and B vitamins that support your cat’s immune system and energy levels. The crunchy texture is great for cats who love a snack with a bite, and adding coconut flour provides a grain-free fiber source.
4. Pumpkin Chicken Nibbles
How to Prepare:
Mix 1/2 cup cooked shredded chicken, 2 tablespoons of plain canned pumpkin (not pie filling), and 1 tablespoon of oat flour. Shape into tiny nuggets and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes. Let cool before serving.
Why It’s Useful:
Pumpkin is a natural source of fiber that can help with both constipation and diarrhea in cats. Combined with chicken, it becomes a digestive-friendly treat with lots of protein and essential nutrients.
5. Cheesy Tuna Crackers
How to Prepare:
Combine 1/2 cup canned tuna, 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and 1/4 cup whole wheat flour. Add a splash of water to form a dough. Roll out and cut into small shapes with a knife or cookie cutter. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes. Let cool thoroughly.
Why It’s Useful:
Cheese, in small amounts, offers calcium and fat that some cats love. Combined with tuna, these crackers become irresistible. Ideal for occasional indulgence or to hide medication in a flavorful bite.
6. Egg & Sardine Mash
How to Prepare:
Mash one hard-boiled egg with 2 teaspoons of mashed sardines in water (not oil). Mix until well combined. Serve immediately or refrigerate in small portions for up to 3 days. No baking needed.
Why It’s Useful:
Eggs provide a full amino acid profile and are excellent for muscle repair and immune support. Sardines bring in omega-3s and vitamin D. This treat is soft, moist, and especially good for senior cats or those with dental issues.
7. Liver Morsels
How to Prepare:
Chop 1/2 cup of chicken liver into small pieces and sauté in a pan with a teaspoon of water (no oil or seasoning) until fully cooked. Cool and chop further into tiny bits. You can also bake them at 250°F (120°C) for 25–30 minutes for a drier version.
Why It’s Useful:
Liver is a nutritional powerhouse—rich in iron, vitamin A, and B12. It supports red blood cell production and overall energy. Due to its richness, feed in moderation—perfect for occasional treats or training rewards.
8. Catnip Chicken Cubes
How to Prepare:
Blend 1/2 cup cooked shredded chicken with 1 egg and 1 tablespoon of dried catnip. Add a bit of flour if needed to bind. Press the mixture into an ice cube tray or silicone mold. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes until firm. Cool and serve.
Why It’s Useful:
Catnip provides mental stimulation and promotes playful behavior. Combined with protein-packed chicken, this treat is both engaging and nourishing. It’s great for enrichment activities or reward-based play.
9. Turkey & Rice Bites
How to Prepare:
Mix 1/2 cup ground cooked turkey, 1 tablespoon of cooked brown rice, and 1 egg. Shape into tiny balls and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 12–15 minutes until firm. Let them cool before offering to your cat.
Why It’s Useful:
Turkey is a lean protein source, and brown rice adds easily digestible fiber and energy. These treats are filling and satisfying—ideal for active cats or those with food sensitivities.
10. Sweet Potato Tuna Mash
How to Prepare:
Boil and mash 1/4 cup of sweet potato. Mix in 1/2 can of tuna and 1 tablespoon of plain yogurt (unsweetened). Shape into soft patties and serve fresh or store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Why It’s Useful:
Sweet potato is gentle on the stomach and rich in antioxidants and fiber. Yogurt (in small, lactose-free amounts) promotes gut health. This mash is a soft, nutritious treat that even picky or recovering cats will enjoy.
These are easy to make and are hassle-free.
You don’t require much time.
They are packed with nutrients.
Nikita Rout is a passionate content writer at HowItSee.com, where she explores the wonders of animals, nature, and the curious questions that spark our imagination. With a love for research and a knack for simplifying complex topics, she brings clarity and creativity to every article she writes. When she’s not writing, you’ll likely find her reading about animal behavior or coming up with unique pet name ideas.
