Simple Homemade Chicken Liver Pâté for Cats – A Nutrient-Rich Treat Your Feline Will Love
Key Info:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4-6 cat portions
Calories per serving: 85
Protein: 12g
Fat: 4g
Difficulty Level: Easy
Cost: Low to moderate
Dietary Notes: Single-protein, carnivore-appropriate
Equipment Needed:
- Medium-sized skillet or frying pan
- Blender or food processor
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Storage containers
- Alternative: Hand mixer if no blender available
Ingredients:
- 450g/1 pound fresh chicken liver, cleaned and trimmed
- 30g/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 60ml/¼ cup water or low-sodium chicken broth
Optional additions:
- 15g/1 tablespoon finely chopped carrots
- 5ml/1 teaspoon olive oil
Method:
- Clean chicken livers thoroughly, removing any connective tissue or greenish parts.
- Melt butter in skillet over medium heat.
- Add chicken livers to pan and cook for 3-4 minutes per side until browned but still slightly pink inside.
- Pour in water or broth, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes.
- Transfer contents to blender and process until smooth.
- Optional: Pass through fine-mesh strainer for ultra-smooth consistency.
- Cool completely before serving or storing.
Visual cue: Mixture should be creamy with no visible chunks.
Crucial Tips:
- Never serve raw liver to cats.
- Don’t overcook – tough liver loses nutrients.
- Always cool completely before refrigerating.
- Watch for signs of food allergies when introducing.
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Up to 3 days in airtight container.
- Freeze: Up to 1 month in portion-sized containers.
- Thaw overnight in refrigerator.
Common Mistakes:
- Overcooking the liver
- Adding seasoning (cats don’t need it)
- Making too large batches
- Not cooling properly before storage
Variations:
- Turkey Liver Version: Replace chicken liver with turkey liver.
- Mixed Organ: Add 25% chicken heart to the mix.
- Texture Adjust: Add more liquid for softer consistency.
Serve at room temperature, 2-3 tablespoons per adult cat per meal. Introduce gradually into your cat’s diet and consult with your veterinarian before making any major dietary changes.
Remember: This recipe should complement, not replace, your cat’s complete and balanced diet.