Homemade Beef & Carrot Stew for Cats: A Veterinarian-Approved Recipe
KEY INFO
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6 cat portions
Calories: 120 per serving
Protein: 18g per serving
Fat: 6g per serving
Carbohydrates: 3g per serving
Difficulty Level: Easy
Cost: $10-15
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Alternative Tools:
- Food processor (for finer texture)
- Ice cube tray (for portion freezing)
INGREDIENTS
Main Components:
- 200g/7oz lean beef, cubed small (substitute: lean turkey)
- 1 medium carrot, finely diced
- 1 egg yolk (organic preferred)
- 1 tablespoon barley powder
- 120ml/½ cup low-sodium beef broth
Optional Additions:
- 1 tablespoon cooked oatmeal
- 1 teaspoon dried catnip
METHOD
- Cut beef into 0.5cm/¼-inch cubes
- Heat pot over medium heat (no oil needed)
- Add beef, cook until no pink remains (about 8-10 minutes)
- Add carrots and broth
- Reduce heat to low, simmer for 20 minutes
- Remove from heat, let cool for 5 minutes
- Stir in egg yolk and barley powder
- Cool to room temperature before serving
CRUCIAL TIPS
- Never serve hot food to cats
- Meat must be thoroughly cooked
- Store portions within 2 hours of cooking
- Introduce gradually over 5-7 days
STORAGE & SCALING
Refrigeration:
- Store in airtight containers
- Keep for up to 3 days
- Never reheat more than once
Freezing:
- Freeze individual portions
- Use within 1 month
- Thaw overnight in refrigerator
VETERINARY NOTES
- Consult your vet before changing your cat’s diet
- This recipe is supplementary, not complete nutrition
- Monitor your cat’s reaction to new ingredients
- Adjust portions based on age, weight, and activity level
COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID
- Don’t add salt or seasonings
- Never use onions or garlic
- Don’t substitute ingredients without veterinary approval
- Avoid serving straight from refrigerator
Remember: This recipe is meant to complement, not replace, commercial cat food unless specifically advised by your veterinarian.