Did somebody say treats? When you have a furry friend, we don’t blame you for wanting to treat them when they potty where they should, learn a new trick or when they simply look extra cute.
Giving your pet a treat is just another way to show them how much you love them. But constantly buying pet treats can be expensive…not to mention, bad for our planet. Just think of the effects all that land-fill destined packaging and shipping and manufacturing have on climate change! You can read more about the Environmental Impact of Pet Food. Plus, homemade is a lot healthier for your pup or kitty compared to a store-bought snack. And we love that with homemade you source your own ingredients. They can be organic, local, etc. It's your decision and let's face it, knowing exactly what your pet is eating feels good. That's why we support home cooking with these supplements for cats and dogs.
Instead of buying pet treats or getting rid of treating your pet altogether, why not get creative and make your own homemade dog treats and cat treats? This is a fun project that your pet will adore you for! Read on to discover how to make all natural homemade dog treats and cats treats using ingredients you already have in your home.
5 Ingredients or Less
Regardless of your skills in the kitchen, anyone can make homemade cat treats or dog treats. There are plenty of simple recipes that use 5 ingredients or less so it’s easy to get started. Best of all, unlike some people, your pet won’t care what the end results look like so there’s no need to worry if it doesn’t look instagrammable. We promise your pet will love them just the same!
Make sure to avoid any harmful ingredients for your pet by referencing our list.
Here we go, treats unleashed....
Natural Homemade Dog Treats
Peanut Butter Oatmeal Treat
Mmmm…peanut butter! This simple dog treat recipe is made with wholesome ingredients like 1/2 cup peanut butter and oatmeal. You’ll also need 2 cups of flour and 2 eggs. Mix all ingredients together until combined, then add water until the dough is wet enough to be rolled out. Use a cookie cutter of your choice. Cook time is around 20 minutes at 350 F. If your pet is a fan of bananas, you can also mix in some mashed up brown bananas before baking.
Don't have the time or energy to make these? Check our these cricket based treats for dogs.
Cheesy Bone Treat
Your dog will love this homemade dog treat. To make it, you’ll need 4 cups of flour, 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese, 2 tbsp of oil, and some water. Be sure to adjust the liquid as necessary so that the dough is stiff. Cut with a bone-shaped cookie cutter. Bake in the oven at 250-350 degrees until thoroughly dry.
Apple Carrot Dog Treat
This is a tasty yet healthy treat you pup will love! Ingredients include 1 cup of whole wheat flour, 1 cup of grated carrots, 1 egg, and 1/2 cup of unsweetened applesauce. Mix the ingredients together until a dough forms. Roll dough into small balls and press dough down slightly so the biscuits are about 1/4 inch thick. Bake until golden brown at 350 F.
Learn more about homemade food for dogs.
Homemade Natural Cat Treats
Salmon and Flour Cat Treat
This yummy cat treat is made with 10oz of salmon, 1 eggs, and 2 cups of flour. If you don’t want to use salmon, you can also try tuna, mackerel, or other oily canned fish. Use a food processor to ensure the salmon is finely chopped. Then combine all ingredients in a stand mixer until it forms a dough. Roll out 1/4-inch thickness on a floured surface and cut into shapes of your choice. Bake for about 20 minutes at 350 F or until it is lightly brown and crispy.
Tuna and Catnip Treat
To make this easy treat, you’ll need 1 4oz can of tuna, 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp of dried catnip, and 1 egg. Process all ingredients in a food processor until a smooth, thick dough forms. Form the dough into 1/4-teaspoon-size balls and cook for about 15 minutes at 350 F.
No time to DIY? Try these silver carp treats for cats.
If you are a DIYer, then check out our post: How to Make Cat or Dog Enrichment Toys at Home.
Also, learn more about why plant based treats are good for your pet and planet.