I’m so happy to share this chicken heart cat treats recipe, because it uses a single, simple ingredient that many cats truly enjoy. These treats are made from plain chicken hearts with no seasoning at all, which helps keep them safe for cats. I like this recipe because it is flexible and can be boiled, steamed, baked, or grilled depending on what is easiest that day. There are no additives, no salt, and no hidden extras. It feels good to offer my cat a treat that stays close to nature and is easy to control.
The first time I prepared chicken hearts for my cat, I noticed how curious and excited she became right away. The smell alone caught her attention, and she stayed close while they cooked. Seeing that reaction made me feel confident I was making something special for her.
What makes this recipe nice is how simple it is. Chicken hearts have a soft texture when cooked and can be cut very small, which works well for many cats. You can prepare them in different ways without changing the ingredient list.
Here are a few reasons I like this recipe:
- One single ingredient and nothing extra
- No salt, oil, or seasonings
- Easy to cook and portion
- Can be adjusted for different chewing needs
Every cat is different, so please talk to your vet about what is safe and appropriate for your cat, especially if your cat has health concerns.
How to Make Chicken Heart Cat Treats
- Rinse the raw chicken hearts well.
- Choose a simple cooking method like boiling, steaming, baking, or grilling.
- Cook the hearts until fully done.
- Let them cool completely.
- Cut into small, safe pieces.
- Serve a few pieces as a treat.
- Store leftovers safely for later use.
Ingredients
- Raw chicken hearts (plain, single ingredient)
- Water (for boiling or steaming)
- A small amount of unsalted butter (optional, only if needed to prevent sticking in a pan)
Directions
- Gather your chicken hearts and rinse them thoroughly under running water. This helps remove any residue before cooking.
- If boiling or steaming, place the hearts in water. If baking, grilling, or pan cooking, prepare your tray or pan as needed.
- Cook the chicken hearts for about 10 to 15 minutes, until they are cooked all the way through.
- Do not add salt, spices, or oils. If using a pan, only a very small amount of unsalted butter may be used to stop sticking.
- Check that the hearts are firm and no longer raw in the center before removing them from heat.
- Place the cooked hearts on a plate and allow them to cool completely.
- Once cool, slice, chop, or mince the hearts into small, bite sized pieces.
- Always make sure the treats are cool before serving to avoid mouth burns.
Process Details
- Fully cooked chicken hearts should be firm and not pink inside.
- Smaller pieces are safer and easier for cats to chew.
- Longer cooking can make hearts firmer, while shorter cooking keeps them softer.
- Cutting the hearts after cooking makes portion control easier.
- Always supervise your cat while eating treats to reduce choking risk.
Tips for Success
- Never add salt, garlic, onion, or seasonings of any kind.
- Keep portions small since these are treats, not a full meal.
- Adjust piece size based on your cat’s age and dental health.
- Stick to plain chicken hearts only, without mixing in other foods.
- If your cat has special dietary needs, check with your vet first.
- Introduce slowly if your cat has never eaten chicken hearts before.
Serving Ideas
- Offer a few small pieces as a special treat.
- Use tiny bits as a reward after grooming or nail trims.
- Serve at room temperature for best smell and interest.
- Adjust how many pieces you give based on your cat’s daily food.
- Use softer cuts for senior cats or cats with dental issues.
Storage & Freezing
- Store cooked chicken hearts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a few days.
- Freeze extra portions for longer storage.
- Thaw frozen hearts in the refrigerator before serving.
- Softer textures spoil faster, so always check before feeding.
- Discard any pieces that smell off, look unusual, or feel slimy.
Chicken heart cat treats are a simple and caring way to give your cat something special without adding unnecessary extras. Making them at home helps me feel confident about what my cat is eating and keeps treat time stress free.
You can:
- Cut the hearts into different sizes based on your cat’s needs.
- Slightly adjust cooking time for softer or firmer texture.
- Share with other cat friends if their vets approve.
Making homemade treats like this is a small but meaningful way to show love, and I hope it brings you and your cat a little extra joy together.
