Homemade Tuna & Cottage Cheese Cat Treats (Easy 4-Ingredient Recipe)

/ Cats, Diet / By
"Close-up of golden-brown cat treats with visible tuna flecks on parchment paper, with a glass jar and modern kitchen counter in the background"

Homemade Tuna & Cottage Cheese Cat Treats (Easy 4-Ingredient Recipe)

Key Info:

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15-20 minutes

Total Time: 25-30 minutes

Servings: 30-40 small treats

Cost: $5-7

Difficulty: Easy

Nutritional Highlights:
  • High protein
  • Low carbohydrate
  • Perfect for occasional treats
  • Contains natural ingredients
Equipment Needed:
  • Mixing bowl
  • Fork or whisk
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Alternative tools: Food processor (optional), Small cookie cutter (optional)
Ingredients:
  • 1 can (5 oz/142g) tuna in water, drained
  • 1/4 cup (60g) cottage cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 cup (120g) whole wheat flour
  • Optional add-ins: 1 tbsp dried catnip, 1 tbsp olive oil (if mixture needs moisture)

Mixing bowl with tuna and cottage cheese ingredients on a white marble countertop in a bright, naturally lit kitchen

Method:
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C)
  2. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper
  3. Drain tuna thoroughly – this is crucial for proper dough consistency
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine tuna and cottage cheese, mashing well with a fork
  5. Add egg and mix until completely incorporated
  6. Gradually stir in flour until a firm dough forms
  7. Roll dough into small marble-sized balls or cut into tiny shapes
  8. Place treats on prepared baking sheet, leaving small gaps between each
  9. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown
  10. Let cool completely before serving

Hands kneading whole wheat dough with speckled texture on a rustic wooden board

Tiny marble-sized dough balls lined up on parchment paper on a baking sheet in a professional kitchen setup.

Crucial Tips:
  • Dough should be firm but pliable – not sticky
  • Treats should be small (cats don’t need large portions)
  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days
  • Can be frozen for up to 3 months
  • Limit to 2-3 treats per day

Golden brown treats straight from the oven, steaming in a professional kitchen under warm ambient lighting

Common Mistakes to Avoid:
  • Don’t skip draining the tuna properly
  • Don’t make treats too large
  • Never serve hot – always cool completely
  • Don’t substitute ingredients without research
Variations:
  • Swap tuna for canned salmon
  • Use chicken as an alternative
  • Add 1 tbsp of grated carrot for extra nutrients
  • Include catnip for extra appeal
Storage:
  • Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days
  • Freeze in a ziplock bag for up to 3 months
  • Thaw in the refrigerator before serving

Cooled treats in a glass storage container with natural lighting in a modern kitchen setting

Remember: These are treats, not meal replacements. Always introduce new foods gradually and watch for any adverse reactions in your cat.

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