FOR CATS

Tuna & Catnip Delights

A feline favorite featuring fresh tuna and catnip. These treats are high in omega-3 fatty acids and provide essential nutrients for your cat's health.

Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 30 minutes Yield: 20-25 treats

Ingredients

  • • 1 can (5 oz) water-packed tuna, drained and flaked
  • • 1/2 cup chickpea flour (grain-free alternative)
  • • 1 large egg
  • • 1 tablespoon dried catnip
  • • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • • 2-3 tablespoons water (as needed)

Instructions

  1. 1 Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Since cats are obligate carnivores, this recipe is designed to be high in protein and low in carbohydrates. Learn more about cat-specific nutritional needs in our nutrition guide.
  2. 2 Drain the tuna thoroughly and flake it into small pieces. Ensure there are no large chunks that could pose a choking hazard. Use water-packed tuna rather than oil-packed to reduce unnecessary fat content.
  3. 3 In a medium bowl, combine the chickpea flour and dried catnip. Chickpea flour provides a grain-free binding agent that's easier for cats to digest than wheat-based flours. If you prefer, you can substitute with coconut flour, though you'll need to adjust the liquid content.
  4. 4 In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and olive oil together. Add the flaked tuna and mix until well combined. The olive oil adds healthy fats and helps keep the treats moist.
  5. 5 Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a thick paste forms. Add water one tablespoon at a time if the mixture is too dry. The consistency should be similar to cookie dough - firm enough to shape but not crumbly.
  6. 6 Using your hands or a small spoon, form the mixture into small, bite-sized balls (about 1/2 inch in diameter) or press into small flat rounds. Place them on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about 1 inch apart.
  7. 7 Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the treats are firm and slightly golden on the edges. The lower temperature ensures the treats don't become too hard, which is important for cats who may have dental sensitivities.
  8. 8 Remove from oven and let cool completely before serving. Store according to our storage guidelines, keeping in mind that treats containing fish should be refrigerated if not consumed within a few days.

Nutritional Benefits

Tuna is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for cats as obligate carnivores. It provides all the essential amino acids your cat needs for maintaining muscle mass, healthy skin, and a glossy coat. The omega-3 fatty acids in tuna support brain health, reduce inflammation, and promote cardiovascular wellness.

Catnip, while not providing nutritional value, acts as a natural stimulant that can encourage play and exercise. Some cats may be more attracted to these treats due to the catnip content, making them excellent for training or as enrichment activities. However, not all cats respond to catnip - if your cat doesn't seem interested, the treats will still be nutritious and delicious.

The grain-free nature of this recipe makes it suitable for cats with grain sensitivities or those on low-carbohydrate diets. Remember that treats should only make up a small portion of your cat's diet. For guidance on appropriate treat portions for cats, see our portion control guide.

Tips & Variations

Fresh Tuna Option: If you prefer using fresh tuna, bake or steam 4-5 ounces of fresh tuna fillet, then flake it. Fresh tuna may have a stronger flavor that some cats prefer. Ensure it's fully cooked and cooled before mixing.

Catnip Alternatives: If your cat doesn't respond to catnip, you can omit it or substitute with a small amount of dried parsley or cat grass powder. Some cats are attracted to valerian root, though use it sparingly as it can be quite potent.

Texture Variations: For softer treats, reduce baking time by 5-10 minutes. For crunchier treats that help with dental health, bake an additional 5 minutes. You can also try our Chicken Liver Crunchies recipe for a different protein source with similar benefits.

Size Matters: Keep treats small - cats have smaller mouths than dogs and prefer bite-sized portions. A pea-sized treat is perfect for most cats and allows for multiple rewards during training without overfeeding.

Important Safety Notes

While tuna is safe for cats in moderation, it should not be the primary protein source in their diet. Tuna can be high in mercury, so these treats should be given occasionally rather than daily. Limit to 2-3 treats per day for an average-sized cat.

Always use water-packed tuna rather than oil-packed varieties, and ensure the tuna is plain with no added salt, seasonings, or flavorings. Some commercial tuna products contain ingredients that could be harmful to cats. For a comprehensive list of safe and dangerous ingredients, consult our nutrition guide.

Storage Instructions

Due to the fish content, these treats should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Always check treats for any signs of spoilage, especially if they've been at room temperature for more than an hour. Fish-based treats are more perishable than those made with other proteins. For detailed information, see our Storage and Shelf Life Guidelines.

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