I’m so happy to share this homemade cat treat recipe because it uses simple, real ingredients that many cats enjoy. These baked treats combine fish, pumpkin, oats, egg, and avocado oil into small, soft bites made just for cats. Everything is made at home, with no extra salt, sugar, or artificial flavors. I like knowing exactly what goes into my cat’s treats and skipping unnecessary additives. This recipe is easy to make and works well as an occasional reward.
When I first made these treats, I wanted something simple and homemade for my cat instead of store bought snacks. Cats can be picky, so I kept the ingredients basic and familiar. The smell of fish while these bake usually gets quick attention in the kitchen.
What makes these treats special is their soft inside and small size. They are easy to break into smaller pieces, which helps for cats that prefer tiny bites. Pumpkin adds a gentle texture, and the fish gives a strong flavor many cats like.
Here are a few reasons I like making these treats:
- Uses simple pantry ingredients
- No added sugar, salt, or artificial flavors
- Baked and easy to portion
- Can be broken into small pieces for picky eaters
Every cat is different, so reactions can vary. Please talk to your vet about what is safe and appropriate for your cat, especially if your cat has allergies or health concerns.
How to Make Cod & Pumpkin Cat Treats
- Preheat the oven and prepare a baking sheet.
- Blend the oats into a fine flour.
- Drain the canned fish well.
- Mix all ingredients together into a soft mixture.
- Shape into small cookies or use a mold.
- Bake until firm.
- Cool completely before serving.
- Store leftovers in the fridge.
Ingredients
- 1 (4 oz) can salmon (no added salt or oil, fully drained)
- 1/2 cup old fashioned oats
- 1/3 cup pumpkin puree (plain pumpkin only, no sugar or spices)
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil (oil only, no pit or skin)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 325 F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- Add the oats to a blender and blend until they turn into a fine flour.
- Open the can of salmon and drain off as much liquid as possible.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the oat flour, salmon, pumpkin puree, egg, and avocado oil.
- Stir until everything is well mixed and forms a soft, thick mixture.
- Scoop small amounts and shape into tiny cookies, or press the mixture into a silicone mold.
- Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet and bake until firm, about 25 to 30 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let the treats cool completely before offering them to your cat.
Process Details
- The mixture should be soft and slightly sticky but easy to shape with a spoon or your hands.
- Smaller treats bake more evenly and are safer for cats to eat.
- The treats should feel firm on the outside but stay a bit soft inside.
- Using parchment paper helps prevent sticking.
- Breaking treats into smaller pieces makes them easier for cats to chew.
Tips for Success
- Always check labels to be sure there is no added salt, onion, garlic, or seasoning.
- Keep treats small since cats prefer tiny bites.
- These are treats, not full meals, so offer them in moderation.
- If your cat is sensitive to grains, keep portions very small.
- Let treats cool fully so your cat does not burn their mouth.
- Talk to your vet before making changes if your cat has health issues.
Serving Ideas
- Offer a small piece as an occasional reward.
- Break treats into crumbs for easier chewing.
- Use during calm bonding moments.
- Give after grooming or nail trims.
- Adjust portion size based on your cat’s size and daily food intake.
Storage & Freezing
- Store treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Keep refrigerated for about 3 to 4 days.
- You can freeze extra treats if needed and thaw before serving.
- Texture may soften slightly after freezing.
- Throw away any treats that smell off, look moldy, or feel sticky.
These homemade fish and pumpkin cat treats are a simple way to make something special for your cat using ingredients you can recognize. Baking them at home lets you control portions and avoid unnecessary extras.
- Change the size to suit your cat’s preference.
- Bake a little longer for firmer treats if needed.
- Watch your cat closely the first time they try them.
- Share with other cats only if their vets approve.
Making treats at home can be a small but meaningful way to care for your cat and enjoy quiet moments together.
