Celebrating our feline companions often involves showering them with affection and, of course, delicious treats. If you’re looking for a way to show your kitty extra love while ensuring they’re snacking on something wholesome, homemade chewy cat treats are the purr-fect solution. Just like celebrating two years with my own demanding yet adorable cat, crafting these treats is a labor of love that’s both rewarding and fun.
Why opt for homemade chewy cat treats? The answer is simple: you control exactly what goes into them. Many store-bought treats are packed with fillers and artificial ingredients that aren’t ideal for your cat’s health. Making your own chewy cat treats allows you to choose high-quality, natural ingredients, ensuring your furry friend gets a snack that’s both tasty and nutritious. Plus, the aroma of baking treats will fill your home with a warm, inviting scent that both you and your cat will adore (though perhaps for different reasons!).
These chewy cat treats are designed to be soft and easy for cats of all ages to enjoy. The secret to their delightful chewiness lies in the combination of brown rice flour and cooked rice, creating a texture that’s gentle on sensitive teeth and gums. The addition of egg and a touch of olive oil further contributes to the soft, pliable consistency that cats find irresistible. Parsley not only adds a hint of freshness but also provides some nutritional benefits.
Ready to bake up a batch of these irresistible chewy cat treats for your beloved feline? Here’s a simple, straightforward recipe that will have your cat purring with delight:
Chewy Cat Treats Recipe
Yields: Approximately 50 small treats
Prep time: 15 minutes
Bake time: 20-25 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 large egg
- 4 oz jar chicken and brown rice baby food (or wet cat food)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 cup brown rice flour
- 1/2 cup cooked white or brown rice
- Optional additions: 1 tablespoon catnip, 1 tablespoon wet cat food for extra flavor
Equipment:
- Medium mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Oven
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Combine wet ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg, baby food (or wet cat food), chopped parsley, olive oil, and water until well combined.
- Add dry ingredients: Gradually add the brown rice flour and cooked rice to the wet ingredients. Stir until everything is thoroughly incorporated. The dough will be thick and spreadable.
- Shape and bake: Spread the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, forming a rectangle about 1/3 inch thick.
- First bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes.
- Slice and second bake: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let it cool slightly until it’s easy to handle. Slice the soft dough into small, bite-sized pieces appropriate for cat treats. Return the sliced treats to the baking sheet.
- Final bake: Bake for another 8 minutes to achieve a chewier texture.
- Cool and store: Remove the treats from the oven and allow them to cool completely on the baking sheet. Once cooled, store the chewy cat treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and safety.
Tips for the Purr-fect Chewy Cat Treats:
- Baking time may vary: Keep an eye on the treats during the second bake. If you prefer a slightly softer treat, reduce the baking time by a minute or two. For a firmer treat, you can bake them a bit longer.
- Storage is key: Storing these homemade chewy cat treats in the refrigerator is recommended due to the fresh ingredients and lack of preservatives. They should last for up to a week in the fridge.
- Ingredient variations: Feel free to customize these treats to your cat’s preferences. Adding a tablespoon of catnip to the dough can make them extra enticing for cats who love catnip. For a stronger meaty flavor, you can add an extra tablespoon of wet cat food.
- Consider your cat’s diet: These treats are intended as a supplement to your cat’s regular diet and not a replacement for their main meals. Always ensure treats are given in moderation.
Making your own chewy cat treats is a wonderful way to bond with your feline friend and ensure they are getting healthy, delicious snacks. While my cat might have questionable manners and a penchant for trouble, knowing I can provide him with wholesome, homemade treats makes all the mischievous moments worthwhile. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to spoil your kitty with these delightful homemade chewy cat treats – they’ll thank you with purrs and maybe even a few leg rubs!
