Homemade Chicken & Bone Broth Recipe for Cats

/ Cats, Diet / By
"Golden chicken bone broth being ladled into mason jars in a clean, professional kitchen environment, garnished with fresh parsley"

Homemade Chicken & Bone Broth for Cats

A nourishing, nutrient-rich broth that supports your feline friend’s health and hydration.

KEY INFO:
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 8-24 hours
  • Total Time: 8-24 hours 15 minutes
  • Servings: 20-30 tablespoons
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Cost: $10-15
  • Dietary: Species-appropriate, grain-free
  • Storage: 5 days refrigerated, 3 months frozen

Raw chicken parts, carrots, celery, and apple cider vinegar on wooden cutting board in a kitchen, lit by natural window light.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED:
  • Large stockpot or slow cooker
  • Fine-mesh strainer
  • Storage containers/ice cube trays
  • Optional: Cheesecloth, meat thermometer
INGREDIENTS:
  • 2-3 lbs chicken parts (backs, wings, necks, feet)
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • Water (enough to cover ingredients by 2 inches)

Optional:

  • 1-2 carrots, chopped
  • 1-2 celery stalks, chopped
METHOD:
  1. Rinse chicken parts thoroughly under cold water.
  2. Place chicken in your cooking vessel.
  3. Add apple cider vinegar (helps extract nutrients from bones).
  4. Add optional vegetables if using.
  5. Cover with water, leaving 2 inches of space at top.

Large stainless steel pot simmering on a stovetop with steam rising and gentle bubbles breaking the surface of a golden broth, illuminated by warm kitchen lighting and an afternoon glow.

For stovetop:
  • Bring to boil.
  • Reduce to low simmer.
  • Cook for 8-24 hours.
  • Skim foam periodically.
For slow cooker:
  • Set to low.
  • Cook for 12-24 hours.
  • Skim foam periodically.

Golden broth being poured through a fine mesh strainer into a clear glass bowl, catching bone fragments, under soft directional lighting.

  1. Strain through fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
  2. Cool completely.
  3. Remove fat layer if desired.
  4. Portion into containers or ice cube trays.

Ladle pouring amber broth into ice cube trays on a clean white kitchen counter, with light reflecting off droplets

CRUCIAL TIPS:
  • Never add salt or seasonings.
  • Remove ALL bones before serving.
  • Introduce gradually to prevent digestive upset.
  • Serve at room temperature.
  • Offer 1-2 tablespoons per 5 lbs of cat’s weight daily.
STORAGE:
  • Refrigerate up to 5 days.
  • Freeze up to 3 months.
  • Thaw overnight in refrigerator.

Mason jars and freezer containers filled with clear golden broth, neatly organized in a refrigerator under cool LED lighting

COMMON MISTAKES:
  • Adding seasonings or onions (toxic to cats).
  • Serving too much too soon.
  • Not removing all bone fragments.
  • Serving cold from refrigerator.
VARIATIONS:
  • Use turkey parts instead of chicken.
  • Add a small piece of liver for extra nutrients.
  • Use as a food topper or standalone treat.

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

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