Tired of turning the treat bag only to find a list of mystery ingredients you can’t pronounce? You’re not alone. Many cat owners are ditching store-bought snacks for something better—homemade cat treats. If you’re looking for easy, healthy, and (most importantly) feline-approved options, this list is about to be your new best friend.
The beauty of making treats at home? You know exactly what goes into every bite. Whether your cat prefers tuna, salmon, or something a little crunchy, we’ve rounded up eight drool-worthy recipes that are simple to make and packed with love. No fancy techniques. No weird additives. Just real ingredients—even the picky eaters will be impressed.
In the next few scrolls, you’ll find fast-bake bites, no-bake nibbles, and even options for sensitive stomachs. So grab your apron (and maybe your cat—if they’re the “helpful” type) because treat time just got an upgrade.
1. Chewy Tuna Cat Treats
These Chewy Tuna Cat Treats are the purr-fect solution for kitties who turn up their whiskers at crunchy snacks. Soft and moist, they’re especially great for senior cats or those with sensitive teeth.
Hydration support? Absolutely. Thanks to the tuna’s natural moisture and minimal processing, these little bites help keep your feline friend’s water intake on track—ideal if you’re concerned about dry diets.
You’ll only need oats, an egg, and some canned tuna. That’s it. In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a protein-rich treat with no additives, no fillers, and no weird stuff you can’t pronounce.
For cats who crave something close to wet cat food but in a portable, snackable form—this one’s a keeper. Bonus: they’re human-grade, but let’s leave the taste-testing to your four-legged boss.
Get the Chewy Tuna Cat Treats Recipe
2. Salmon and Oat Cat Treats
These treats are a win-win: they’re simple to make and packed with goodness. Using just canned salmon, oats, and a single egg, these bites are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making them excellent for your cat’s skin and coat.
The oats bring in fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep your cat feeling full. Plus, these ingredients are pantry-friendly—no obscure items or complicated prep needed. Just mix, roll, and bake.
Ideal for pet parents seeking homemade cat treats that do more than just taste good, these snacks support overall feline health. Bonus: they’re way cheaper than most premium wet food for cats and don’t have hidden fillers.
Your cat probably won’t thank you with words, but the constant staring near the treat jar says plenty.
3. Tuna and Catnip Crumbles
For playful felines who need a little snack-time excitement, these Tuna and Catnip Crumbles are a hit. This easy recipe combines pantry staples—canned tuna, egg, flour, and a sprinkle of dried catnip—for a crunchy, aromatic treat. The dried catnip adds an irresistible twist, making it great for cats who turn their noses up at standard wet cat food.
Just mix, shape, and bake. That’s it.
These homemade cat treats work especially well as a mid-day nibble or reward during playtime. They promote stimulation while keeping ingredients minimal and wholesome. Plus, if your cat needs a break from bland snacks or overly processed wet food for cats, this might be the bite they’ve been waiting for.
Affordable, easy, and fuss-free—what’s not to love? Check the full recipe at Sustainable Slow Living.
4. Crispy Tuna Bites
Need a crunchy fix your cat will actually chew? Crispy Tuna Bites are your go-to.
Made from simple ingredients like canned tuna, whole wheat flour, and egg, these bites are baked at a higher temperature to add serious crunch. That extra crunch isn’t just fun—it also promotes better dental health by helping clean teeth naturally.
Ideal for sharp-toothed snackers and felines who prefer texture over mush, these bites offer a satisfying alternative to typical wet food for cats.
Prepping them doesn’t take long, and the aroma while baking? Let’s just say your cat might start hanging out around the oven. Bonus: You likely have all the ingredients on hand already.
It’s one of the most rewarding homemade cat treats if your furball enjoys crispy, snackable rewards with some added oral care benefits baked right in.
5. Tuna and Egg Protein Cubes
If you’ve got a busy, high-energy cat bouncing off the walls, these Tuna and Egg Protein Cubes are golden. They’re simple, effective, and loaded with natural protein, which is ideal for growing or extra-active felines.
The recipe couldn’t be easier: Just blend a can of tuna with two eggs, pour into silicone molds, and bake until they’re firm. That’s it. You get bite-sized rewards packed with the kind of nutrition most cats crave, especially those not fully satisfied with just cat food (wet or dry).
Bonus? You’ll recognize every ingredient in these homemade cat treats—no weird fillers or unpronounceable things. And while these aren’t for sale (homemade, remember?), the cost per batch is way less than premium wet food for cats. Your wallet and your kitty will high-five you—if they had thumbs.
6. Microwave Chicken Bites
Pressed for time but still want to spoil your furry friend? Microwave Chicken Bites are your go-to solution. They’re a fast, delicious snack that doesn’t require any baking. Just mix blended chicken breast with a touch of flour, spoon into tiny bite-sized blobs, and microwave for under two minutes. Boom—instant gratification. These are fantastic for those moments when wet food for cats doesn’t quite cut it, and your feline craves something warm and chewy. While not as soft as traditional cat food (wet), they deliver protein without preservatives. Use lean meat, avoid seasonings, and store leftovers in the fridge for up to three days. Quick, fresh, and feline-approved—homemade cat treats have never been easier.
7. Pumpkin and Tuna Mini Muffins
Need a tummy-friendly treat for your cat? These Pumpkin and Tuna Mini Muffins are more than cute—they’re functional.
Fiber-packed pumpkin helps with digestion. That’s a win for cats with sensitive stomachs or bathroom irregularities. Tuna adds enticing flavor (and protein), while the egg and flour hold everything together in a bite-sized form.
Making them is surprisingly simple: mix canned tuna, pure pumpkin puree (unsweetened, always), an egg, and a bit of flour. Spoon into mini muffin trays and bake. Done.
Compared to store-bought wet food for cats, these muffins use clean ingredients you control. No artificial stuff. Just fresh, homemade cat treats your pet will devour—maybe a little too fast.
For the full recipe, check Sustainable Slow Living. Budget-friendly. Belly-friendly. Cat-approved.
8. Sardine and Oat Crunchies
If your senior cat’s joints are sounding more like creaky floorboards than purring engines, these Sardine and Oat Crunchies might be the help they need. Packed with anti-inflammatory omega-3s, sardines support joint and heart health—without the price tag of supplements.
To make them, just blend a can of sardines (in water, not oil!) with oats and a single egg. Shape into small pieces or use a fun mold, then bake until golden and crispy. That’s it.
These crunchy bites are perfect for older cats needing joint support, or simply pampering your feline with a nutritious alternative to commercial wet food for cats. Unlike processed cat food (wet or dry), this treat lets you control ingredients while giving them a burst of flavor and texture.
Bonus: They’re fridge-friendly for up to a week, so feel free to make a batch ahead.
Popular Questions About Cat Treats
What can I make as a treat for my cat?
You can whip up easy cat treats right at home using just a few kitchen staples. Think canned tuna, cooked chicken, or even plain salmon (no seasoning, please). A quick option is to mash tuna with a bit of egg and whole wheat flour, roll it into small balls, and bake until firm. Another idea? Freeze tiny cubes of cooked meat for cool, protein-packed snacks. Just avoid anything seasoned, salty, or containing onions and garlic—those are a big no-no for feline tummies.
What kind of homemade food is good for cats?
Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they need meat—lots of it. Homemade meals should start with a solid protein base like chicken, turkey, or beef. Add a small amount of cooked veggies like carrots or green beans, and maybe a touch of brown rice for fiber. But here’s the catch: balance is key. Without proper nutrients like taurine and calcium, homemade food can do more harm than good. It’s best to talk to a vet or pet nutritionist before making a long-term switch.
What is the best flour to use for cat treats?
Whole wheat flour is the go-to for many homemade cat treats. It’s more nutritious than white flour and gives structure to baked goodies. But if your cat’s sensitive to wheat, oat flour or rice flour are gentler alternatives. Always steer clear of almond or coconut flours—they may sound healthy, but they’re not ideal for cats and can cause digestion issues. When in doubt, opt for simple, vet-approved ingredients.
What treat is irresistible to cats?
Tuna is cat kryptonite. The smell alone can send your kitty into zoomie mode. Other irresistible options include freeze-dried chicken, bonito flakes, and even bits of roasted turkey (hold the seasoning!). But don’t overlook catnip or silvervine if your feline prefers fun over food. Still, what one cat loves, another may snub—because, well, cats. Try a few and see what gets that tail twitching.
Treat Your Cat—Without the Guesswork
We hope these homemade cat treats have helped you find new, easy ways to pamper your feline friend. Whether you’re baking up tuna delights or whipping together oat-based nibbles, each recipe offers a healthier, preservative-free alternative to store-bought snacks. Plus, they’re fun to make—especially when you get that approving purr of satisfaction.
From the protein-packed ideas at Sustainable Slow Living to the irresistibly chewy bites from My Sweet Precision, there’s no shortage of inspiration. And if your kitty turns their nose up at salmon? No biggie. Try switching it up with chicken, pumpkin, or even a dash of catnip. You know your cat best—these recipes just give you a tasty place to start.
Making homemade cat treats is also a simple way to take control of what your pet eats. No confusing labels. No hidden fillers. Just real ingredients for real cats. Tail wags not included… because, you know, cats.
So go ahead—preheat that oven, mash that tuna, and turn your kitchen into your cat’s new favorite restaurant. You’ve got this. And your cat? They’ll thank you in head butts and happy zoomies.
