Gut-Friendly Salmon & Pumpkin Cat Food Recipe
A nutrient-dense, homemade meal to support your cat’s digestive health.
KEY INFO:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 cat portions
- Difficulty: Easy
- Cost: Moderate
NUTRITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS:
- High in omega-3 fatty acids
- Rich in digestive-supporting fiber
- Contains natural probiotics
- Grain-free
- High-protein
EQUIPMENT NEEDED:
- Medium saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Food processor or blender
- Measuring cups and spoons
Alternative tools:
- Fork for mashing (if no blender available)
- Regular ice cube tray (instead of cat food molds)
INGREDIENTS:
Main Components:
- 1 pound (450g) wild-caught salmon, skin removed
- 1 cup (240g) pure pumpkin puree
- 1/4 cup (60ml) bone broth (chicken or fish)
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) salmon oil
Gut Health Boosters:
- 1 teaspoon prebiotic fiber (inulin)
- 1 probiotic capsule (cat-specific)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 egg yolk
METHOD:
- Cut salmon into 1-inch chunks
- Pour bone broth into saucepan and add salmon
- Simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes until salmon flakes easily
- Transfer cooked salmon to food processor
- Add pumpkin puree and salmon oil
- Blend until smooth and consistent
- Let cool to room temperature
- Stir in prebiotic fiber and probiotic powder
- If using, gently fold in parsley and egg yolk
CRUCIAL TIPS:
- Never use canned pumpkin pie filling – only pure pumpkin
- Check salmon is fully cooked – it should flake easily
- Allow mixture to cool before adding probiotics
- Introduce gradually to prevent digestive upset
STORAGE:
- Refrigerate for up to 3 days
- Freeze portions for up to 2 months
- Thaw overnight in refrigerator
SCALING & VARIATIONS:
- Recipe doubles easily
- Substitute mackerel or sardines for salmon
- Sweet potato can replace pumpkin
- Add 1 tablespoon green-lipped mussel powder for joint support
COMMON MISTAKES:
- Adding probiotics to hot mixture (kills beneficial bacteria)
- Using flavored bone broth (may contain harmful ingredients)
- Not transitioning gradually to new food
- Forgetting to consult vet about portion sizes
IMPORTANT NOTE:
Always consult your veterinarian before making significant changes to your cat’s diet, especially if they have existing health conditions or dietary restrictions.