If you’re anything like me, you love spoiling your cat with homemade goodies. One of my go-to recipes is these homemade cat treats with pumpkin.
They’re simple to make, healthy, and full of flavors that drive my cat, Stinky, absolutely wild! The best part?
They require minimal effort and only a handful of ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
They are easy to whip up and packed with healthy ingredients that are great for your cat’s skin and digestion.
Table of Contents
How To Make The Homemade Cat Treats With Pumpkin?
Recipe Overview
These healthy homemade pumpkin cat treats are simple to make with just a few ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.
They’re soft, flavorful, and packed with nutrients that benefit your cat’s health.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Cuisine: Pet Treats
Course: Snacks for Cats
Difficulty Level: Easy
Yield: About 24 small treats
Calories per Serving: Approx. 5 kcal (depending on treat size)
This pumpkin cat treat recipe is not just a treat; it’s a healthy addition to your cat’s diet.
Packed with fiber, pumpkin helps with digestion, while tuna adds protein. I make these treats in batches and store them in the fridge for about a week – they disappear fast!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup oat flour
- 1/3 cup canned pure pumpkin puree (no added sugar or spices)
- 1 5-ounce can of tuna in water, drained
- 1 teaspoon dried catnip (optional)
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp avocado oil
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with avocado oil.
2. Blend the Ingredients:
Combine the pumpkin puree, tuna, egg, and avocado oil in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. If you prefer chunkier treats, pulse the tuna lightly so small bits are left in the mix.
3. Mix in the Dry Ingredients:
Transfer the mixture to a bowl and stir in the oat flour and catnip (if using). The dough should be thick but pliable. If it feels too wet, add a little more oat flour.
4. Shape the Treats:
Scoop small amounts of dough using a teaspoon and roll them into tiny balls. Flatten them slightly with your fingers or the back of a spoon. Place them evenly on the baking sheet.
5. Bake:
Bake the treats for 12-15 minutes or until golden and firm. Let them cool completely before serving them to your cat.
6. Storage:
Store the treats in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week or freeze for up to a month.
Tips and Variations
✅ Substitutions: If you don’t have oat flour, blend regular oats into a fine powder. Brown rice flour also works.
✅ Protein Swap: No tuna? Substitute with cooked chicken or salmon.
✅ Pumpkin Boost: Add a little extra if your cat enjoys pumpkin! Just be sure not to overdo it – too much can upset their stomach.
✅ Shaping Ideas: Use a small cookie cutter to create fun shapes. I sometimes shape them into tiny fish for Stinky – it’s adorable!
✅ Soft Treats: For softer treats, bake for only 10 minutes. These are great for senior cats or those with dental issues.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these pumpkin cat treats as a reward, or crumble them over your cat’s regular food. Adding pumpkin to cat food can improve digestion; these treats are a fun way to introduce it.
Are Pumpkin Treats Good for Cats?
Pumpkin is rich in fiber and can help with digestion. It’s gentle on their stomach and can alleviate minor constipation or diarrhea.
It’s also low in calories and packed with vitamins that promote healthy skin and fur.
Adding pumpkin to cat food is an easy way to support your cat’s overall health.
What Can I Mix with Pumpkin for My Cat?
Mix pumpkin with plain cooked chicken, turkey, or even a bit of tuna. Just ensure there are no added spices or seasonings.
Can I Give My Cat Pumpkin Every Day?
Yes, but in small amounts. A teaspoon of pumpkin added to their food is usually enough to promote healthy digestion.
Why Make Homemade Pumpkin Cat Treats?
Making cat treats at home means you know exactly what’s in them. There are no unnecessary additives; you can tailor the recipe to suit your cat’s taste. Plus, it’s an excellent bonding activity.
Final Thoughts
Ready to bake up a batch of homemade pumpkin cat treats? I’d love to hear how your cat enjoys them!
Please share your experience in the comments below or tag me on social media with pictures of your furry taste tester!
If you try this pumpkin cat food recipe, let me know how your cat likes it!
I’d love to hear your feedback or any creative twists you put on the treats. Happy baking!
Hi there! My name is Koushik; I am a cat lover. I specialize in writing about pet care & food. I have a wealth of knowledge on cat food niches and related subjects. I have worked in the pet industry for over 5 years and am passionate about helping cat owners provide the best care for their furry friends. With knowledge of cat food and nutrition, I aim to share their insights and help cat owners navigate the world of cat food niches. I enjoy playing with my two cats, reading, and exploring new cat food brands in my free time.
