I’m so happy to share this homemade cat treat recipe because it turns plain shrimp into tiny, bite sized snacks cats can enjoy. These Mini Shrimp Cat Bites are baked, simple, and made with ingredients you can recognize. Shrimp gives a strong smell and flavor that many cats love, while cornmeal and flour help hold everything together. I like that these treats are made without added salt, garlic, or onion. They are meant for occasional treating, not everyday meals.
The first time I made these shrimp bites, I kept everything very simple and watched closely how my cat reacted. The smell of cooked shrimp alone was enough to spark interest. Once baked, the bites were small, firm, and easy to handle.
What makes this recipe special is the size and texture. The bites are tiny, which works well for cats who prefer small pieces. The dough blends smoothly, and baking them in two short rounds helps them cook evenly.
Here are a few reasons I like these treats:
- Simple ingredients with no seasoning
- Small size that is easy for cats to eat
- Baked, not fried
- Easy to store in the fridge
Every cat is different, so tastes and digestion can vary. Please talk to your vet about what is safe and appropriate for your cat.
How to Make Mini Shrimp Cat Bites
- Preheat the oven and prepare a baking sheet.
- Cook the shrimp with water until fully done.
- Let the shrimp and liquid cool.
- Blend the shrimp, broth, and dry ingredients into dough.
- Roll into very small balls.
- Bake, toss, and bake again.
- Cool completely before serving.
- Store leftovers in the fridge.
Ingredients
- 1/3 lb raw shrimp (peeled and deveined, no seasoning)
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/2 cup white cornmeal
- 1/2 cup all purpose or whole wheat flour
- 1 tablespoon dried catnip, minced (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly coat it with non stick spray.
- Place the raw shrimp and 1/3 cup water in a microwave safe bowl. Cover and microwave for about 3 to 4 minutes, until the shrimp are fully cooked.
- Let the shrimp and cooking liquid cool until safe to handle.
- Transfer the cooked shrimp and exactly 1/2 cup of the shrimp broth into a food processor or blender.
- Add the cornmeal, flour, and optional dried catnip. Blend until a soft dough forms and pulls together.
- Pinch off very small pieces of dough and roll them into tiny balls. Place them evenly on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 5 minutes, remove the pan, gently toss the bites, then return to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let the bites cool completely before serving or storing.
Process Details
- The dough should be soft and hold together without crumbling.
- Very small balls are safest and easiest for cats to eat.
- Tossing the bites halfway through helps them cook evenly.
- The bites should feel firm on the outside once done.
- Cooling fully helps the texture set and keeps cats from burning their mouths.
Tips for Success
- Make sure shrimp are plain with no salt, garlic, or onion.
- Keep the bites very small since cats prefer tiny treats.
- These are treats only and should be fed in moderation.
- Skip the catnip if your cat does not respond well to it.
- Stick to the ingredient amounts provided for best results.
- Talk to your vet if your cat has allergies or health concerns.
Serving Ideas
- Offer one or two bites as a special reward.
- Use after grooming or nail trimming.
- Serve during calm bonding time.
- Break a bite in half for smaller cats.
- Adjust portions based on your cat’s regular diet.
Storage & Freezing
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- Keep refrigerated for up to one week.
- These bites are best served cold or at room temperature.
- Do not leave out for long periods due to the shrimp.
- Discard any treats that smell off, look moldy, or feel sticky.
Mini Shrimp Cat Bites are a fun way to make simple, homemade treats using plain shrimp and basic pantry items. Making them yourself helps you control ingredients and portion sizes.
- Roll smaller or larger bites based on your cat’s preference.
- Bake a little longer for a firmer texture if needed.
- Watch your cat closely the first time they try them.
Making treats at home can be a small but meaningful way to show love and build a stronger bond with your cat.
