Homemade Cat Treats Recipe

Mason jar full of homemade square yellow cat treats sitting on a striped board with treats scattered around it.

Quick and easy homemade cat treats made with just three simple ingredients. These soft-baked morsels are great fresh, and they freeze beautifully for later.

Course Snacks

Cuisine American

Prep Time 4

Cook Time 6

Total Time 10

Servings servings

Calories 18kcal

Author Diane Gail

Cost $3

Ingredients

5 oz canned chicken with juice
1/3 cup yellow corn meal
1 egg

US Customary - Metric

Instructions

Preheat oven: Set your oven to 350°F (177°C) to begin.
Break down the chicken: Place the canned chicken with its juice into a small bowl. Use your hands to break it apart until it becomes a soft, mushy texture.
Combine ingredients: Add cornmeal and the egg to the bowl. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Prepare baking surface: Line a cast iron skillet or baking sheet with parchment paper.
Spread mixture: Press the treat mixture onto the lined surface, spreading to about ¼" thickness.
Score treats: Use a knife to lightly score the mixture into small treat-sized pieces.
First bake: Place in the oven and bake for 4 minutes.
Cut through treats: Remove from oven and cut through the scored lines.
Second bake: Return to oven for an additional 2–4 minutes. Do not allow the treats to brown.
Cool on rack: Slide the parchment paper onto a cooling rack and allow the treats to cool completely.
Serve and store: Allow treats to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate.

Notes

Choose chicken packed in water: Avoid varieties packed in broth or with added salt or seasoning.
Break down the meat well: Mash the chicken thoroughly so the mixture spreads smoothly in the pan and bakes evenly.
Bake gently: These treats are meant to be soft. Do not allow them to brown before removing them from the oven.
Freeze for longer storage: Freeze treats on a parchment-lined tray to freeze individually, then transfer them to a sealed container or bag.
Bring to room temperature before serving: Thawed treats are more flavorful and enjoyable for most cats.
Keep portions small: These treats are meant to be given occasionally as a small homemade addition, not as a replacement for your cat’s regular meals.

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