Heart-Healthy Mackerel & Brown Rice Cat Food Recipe

Heart-Healthy Mackerel & Brown Rice Cat Food Recipe

A nutrient-rich homemade cat meal packed with omega-3s and protein.

KEY INFO:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 2-3 cat meals (approximately 1.5 cups)
• Cost: $5-$7
• Difficulty: Easy

NUTRITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS:

• High in protein
• Rich in omega-3 fatty acids
• Natural taurine source
• Heart-healthy ingredients

EQUIPMENT NEEDED:

• Food processor or blender
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Medium mixing bowl
• Airtight storage container
• Alternative: Hand mixer if food processor unavailable

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 cup canned mackerel (240g), drained (or substitute with salmon/sardines)
• 1 tbsp cooked brown rice (15g)
• 1 tbsp sunflower seed oil (15ml) [or coconut oil]
• 1-2 tbsp chicken/beef broth or water (15-30ml)

Optional:

• ¼(15g)

METHOD:

1. Drain the canned mackerel thoroughly, checking for any bones.
2. Cook brown rice according to package instructions until soft and fluffy.
3. Add mackerel, cooked rice, and oil to the food processor.
4. Pour in 1 tbsp broth/water initially.
5. Blend until smooth, adding more liquid if needed for desired consistency.
6. Mix in optional ingredients if using.

CRUCIAL TIPS:

• Always check for bones before blending.
• Blend until smooth but not liquefied.
• Serve at room temperature.
• Start with small portions when introducing.

STORAGE & HANDLING:

• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freeze individual portions for up to 1 month.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Discard any uneaten portions after 2 hours.

SCALING:

• Recipe doubles easily.
• Maintain ingredient ratios when scaling.
• Freeze extra portions in ice cube trays.

COMMON MISTAKES:

• Don’t overfeed – start with small portions.
• Never skip the bone check.
• Don’t substitute ingredients without veterinary approval.
• Avoid rapid diet changes.

VARIATIONS:

1. Salmon Version:

• Replace mackerel with canned salmon.
• Add 1 tsp fish oil supplement.

2. Extra Protein Version:

• Add 1 tbsp cooked chicken liver.
• Increase broth to maintain consistency.

IMPORTANT:

Always consult your veterinarian before making major changes to your cat’s diet, especially if they have existing health conditions or dietary restrictions.