I’ve already written about how to make homemade cat food before, and it sparked some interesting discussions. Some people love the idea, while others insist that making your own cat food is risky.
Here’s what I believe: homemade cat food can be a great option when done correctly. But it requires careful planning to ensure it’s nutritionally complete and safe.
So, if you’re wondering how to make homemade cat food, let’s go over everything you need to know – the essential nutrients, common mistakes to avoid, and a simple recipe to get you started.
What Nutrients Do Cats Need in Homemade Food?
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they must eat animal-based proteins to survive. Unlike humans or dogs, they cannot thrive on plant-based diets. A well-balanced homemade cat food recipe should include:
1. High-Quality Protein (The Foundation of Every Meal)
Cats need a diet rich in protein to support their muscles, immune system, and energy levels. Good protein sources include:
- Chicken (thighs, breast, liver, heart)
- Turkey
- Beef
- Rabbit
- Duck
- Fish (occasionally, but not too often due to mercury concerns)
2. Taurine: The Essential Nutrient Your Cat Can’t Live Without
- Taurine (Wikipedia) is critical for heart function, vision, and overall health. Cats cannot produce taurine on their own, so they must get it from food. Taurine-rich ingredients include:
- Chicken hearts and liver
- Beef hearts
- Shellfish (shrimp, clams)
Without enough taurine, cats can develop serious health problems, including heart disease and blindness.
3. Healthy Fats for Energy and a Glossy Coat
- Fats are essential for energy, brain function, and skin health. Good fat sources include:
- Chicken skin (in moderation)
- Fish oil (rich in Omega-3s)
- Egg yolks
- Beef fat
4. Calcium and Phosphorus for Bone Health
- Cats need a balance of calcium and phosphorus for strong bones and teeth. These come from:
- Raw meaty bones (if feeding raw)
- Ground eggshell powder
- Bone meal supplements
5. Essential Vitamins and Minerals
- Vitamin A – Found in liver (never skip liver!).
- B Vitamins – Found in organ meats and fish.
- Zinc & Magnesium – Support the immune system and digestion.
💡 Tip: A well-balanced homemade diet should include both muscle meat and organ meat to ensure all essential vitamins and minerals are covered.
Check out my Amazon list of essential cat supplements – everything your cat needs for a healthy, balanced diet. If you want to support your feline’s well-being, this list has you covered!
Homemade vs. Store-Bought Cat Food: Pros and Cons
Both homemade and commercial cat food have their benefits and challenges. Let’s compare:
| Factor | Homemade Cat Food | Store-Bought Cat Food |
|---|---|---|
| Ingredient Control | Full control over quality | May contain fillers, preservatives |
| Freshness | Always fresh, no processing | Longer shelf life |
| Cost | Can be cost-effective if planned well | Premium brands can be expensive |
| Convenience | Requires prep time | Easy and ready to serve |
| Balanced Nutrition | Needs careful planning | Formulated to meet feline needs |
✔ Verdict: Both can be good options, but homemade food requires research and commitment to ensure your cat gets all the nutrients they need.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Homemade Cat Food
❌ 1. Not Including Taurine
- Lack of taurine can lead to heart disease and blindness. Always include organ meats or taurine supplements.
❌ 2. Feeding Only Muscle Meat
- Cats need organs, bones, and fat in addition to muscle meat for a complete diet.
❌ 3. Forgetting Calcium
- Without calcium, your cat’s bones and teeth won’t develop properly. Bone meal or eggshell powder can help.
❌ 4. Skipping Vet Consultation
- Even with the best ingredients, homemade diets should be vet-approved to ensure they meet your cat’s needs.
How to Make Homemade Cat Food: A Simple Recipe
If you’re new to making cat food, here’s a simple, balanced recipe to start with:
Ingredients:
- 500g boneless chicken thigh
- 50g chicken liver
- 50g chicken heart (for taurine!)
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tsp fish oil (for Omega-3s)
- 500mg taurine supplement (if not using enough organ meats)
- 1 tsp ground eggshell (for calcium)
- ¼ cup water (for moisture)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Meat
Trim any excess fat from the chicken thighs, and ensure the liver and heart are fresh and clean.
2️⃣ Cook or Serve Raw
If cooking, lightly sauté the chicken thighs, liver, and heart in a pan without oil or seasoning. Keep the moisture in the meat and avoid overcooking to preserve nutrients. Let it cool before mixing.
3️⃣ Combine and Blend
In a food processor or bowl, mix the cooked or raw meat, egg yolk, fish oil, taurine supplement, and ground eggshell. Blend until you reach the desired consistency – smooth for picky eaters or chunkier for texture-loving cats.
4️⃣ Add Moisture
Pour in ¼ cup of water and mix well to ensure the food stays soft and easy to eat.
5️⃣ Store Safely
Transfer the homemade cat food into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, divide into portions and freeze for up to 3 months. Always thaw frozen meals in the fridge before serving.
💡 Pro Tip: Introduce new foods gradually to help your cat adjust, and always consult your vet to ensure a balanced diet!
Vet Consultation: A Crucial Step Before Switching to Homemade Food
Before switching your cat to homemade food, talk to your vet. Why? Because:
- Every cat has different dietary needs.
- Kittens, older cats, and cats with medical conditions require special nutrition.
- A vet can recommend supplements if your recipe is missing anything.
A well-planned homemade diet can be amazing, but it has to be done right.
Is Homemade Cat Food Right for You?
Making homemade cat food can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to get the nutrition right.
- Start simple.
- Use both muscle and organ meats.
- Always include taurine and calcium.
- Check with your vet before switching.
If you’re interested in more homemade cat food recipes, I already have 12 recipes – stay tuned for even more! 🐾✨
FAQ: How to Make Homemade Cat Food
Is homemade cat food healthier than store-bought food?
Yes, it can be! Homemade cat food allows you to control ingredients, avoid preservatives, and ensure freshness. However, it must be properly balanced with the right nutrients like taurine, calcium, and essential vitamins. A poorly planned homemade diet can lead to deficiencies, so always consult your vet.
How do I ensure my homemade cat food is nutritionally complete?
A balanced homemade cat food recipe should include high-quality protein, organ meats (for taurine and vitamins), healthy fats, and calcium sources like eggshell powder or bone meal. You may also need supplements to ensure all essential nutrients are covered.
Can I make homemade cat food without raw meat?
Yes! While many homemade cat food recipes use raw meat, you can also lightly cook the ingredients while keeping moisture intact. The key is to avoid seasoning, as ingredients like salt, onions, and garlic are toxic to cats.
How often should I feed my cat homemade food?
It depends on how well-balanced the diet is. If it’s nutritionally complete and vet-approved, you can feed it as your cat’s main diet. Otherwise, homemade food can be used as a supplement a few times a week alongside high-quality commercial cat food.
