Cats are connoisseurs of all things fishy, and what better way to show your feline friend some love than with homemade treats made with their favorite ingredient? Not only are homemade treats a budget-friendly option, but they also allow you to control the quality of ingredients going into your cat’s belly. So, ditch the store-bought treats and whip up some purrfectly delicious fish treats your cat will go crazy for!
Simple Salmon Savories:
- Ingredients:
- 1 can (5 oz) boneless, skinless salmon in water
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup rolled oats
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Drain the salmon, reserving 1 tablespoon of the salmon water. Flake the salmon with a fork.
- In a large bowl, combine flaked salmon, flour, oats, and Parmesan cheese (if using).
- Slowly add the reserved salmon water, one tablespoon at a time, until the mixture forms a dough that is slightly sticky but can be handled.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes (fish shapes are a fun option!).
- Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
- Let the treats cool completely before offering them to your cat. Store leftover treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tuna Temptations:
- Ingredients:
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water
- 1/2 cup chickpea flour
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh catnip (optional)
- Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Drain the tuna completely. In a food processor, pulse the tuna until it becomes a fine paste.
- In a large bowl, combine the tuna paste, chickpea flour, olive oil, and catnip (if using). Mix well until a dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/4-inch thickness.
- Use cookie cutters to cut out desired shapes.
- Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until dry and firm to the touch.
- Let the treats cool completely before offering them to your cat. Store leftover treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Important Reminders:
- Always consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your cat’s diet.
- Ensure all ingredients are fresh and cat-safe.
- Start with small portions to avoid any digestive upset.
- These treats are intended as occasional snacks and should not replace your cat’s regular meals.
With these simple recipes and a little love, you can create homemade fish treats that are both healthy and delicious for your feline companion. Watch your cat’s tail wag (or perhaps their eyes narrow in delightful anticipation) as they savor these homemade fishy delights!