I’m so happy to share this chicken and pumpkin mash for cats, because it is simple, gentle, and easy to make at home. This recipe uses cooked chicken breast and plain pumpkin puree, which are both common and familiar foods for many cats. There are no spices, no salt, and no fillers added. I like this mash because it works well as a treat or a topper and lets me control the texture. It feels good to offer something homemade and calm for my cat’s bowl.
I first made this mash when I wanted to give my cat something a little different from her regular food. I noticed she was curious about the smell right away and licked the bowl clean. That made me feel happy and more confident about using simple foods.
What makes this recipe special is how soft and smooth it can be. You can mash it finely or leave it a little chunky, depending on what your cat prefers. It is not meant to replace regular cat food, but it can be a nice extra.
Here are a few reasons I like this recipe:
- Uses simple, easy to find ingredients
- No added salt, sugar, or spices
- Easy to adjust texture for different cats
- Works well as a treat or food topper
Please talk to your vet about what is safe and appropriate for your cat, especially before adding new foods or treats.
How to Make Chicken & Pumpkin Mash for Cats
- Cook the chicken until fully done.
- Shred or finely chop the chicken.
- Mix the chicken with pumpkin puree.
- Add broth or water slowly while mashing.
- Stir in optional oil and catnip if using.
- Let it reach room temperature.
- Serve a small amount and store leftovers safely.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked, unseasoned chicken breast (no salt, no onion, no garlic)
- 1/2 cup plain pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth or water (no added salt)
Optional add ins (choose 1 or 2):
- 1 teaspoon salmon oil or olive oil (optional, small amount only)
- A pinch of catnip (optional)
Directions
- Cook the chicken breast until it is fully done, with no seasoning added. Let it cool slightly so it is safe to handle.
- Shred or finely chop the cooked chicken into small pieces. Smaller pieces mix more easily and are safer for cats.
- Place the chicken and pumpkin puree into a mixing bowl.
- Slowly add the low-sodium broth or water while mashing. The mixture should be soft and easy to scoop, not runny.
- If using, stir in the oil and a small pinch of catnip until mixed well.
- Check the texture and adjust with a little more liquid if needed.
- Let the mash cool to room temperature before serving.
- Serve a small portion and store the rest properly.
Process Details
- The mash should be soft and moist, not dry or watery.
- Adding liquid slowly helps you control the final texture.
- Finely chopped chicken works best for cats who prefer smoother food.
- This recipe does not need cooking after mixing.
- Always let the mash cool before serving.
Tips for Success
- Use only plain pumpkin puree, never pumpkin pie filling.
- Check broth labels carefully to avoid salt, onion, or garlic.
- Keep portions small since this is a treat or topper, not a full meal.
- Skip the optional add ins if your cat is sensitive to new foods.
- Introduce slowly if your cat has never had pumpkin before.
- Talk to your vet before making changes to your cat’s diet.
Serving Ideas
- Serve a small spoonful as a treat.
- Mix a little into regular cat food as a topper.
- Offer at room temperature for better smell and taste.
- Use for special occasions like birthdays or Gotcha Days.
- Adjust the amount based on your cat’s size and daily food.
Storage & Freezing
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze extra portions for longer storage.
- Thaw frozen mash in the refrigerator before use.
- Softer foods spoil faster, so always check before serving.
- Throw away any mash that smells odd or looks unusual.
This chicken and pumpkin mash for cats is a calm and simple way to add a little homemade love to your cat’s routine. I enjoy knowing exactly what goes into it and watching my cat enjoy every bite.
You can:
- Make it smoother or chunkier by changing how you mash it.
- Serve smaller or larger spoonfuls based on your cat’s needs.
- Share the idea with other cat parents if their vets approve.
Making small homemade treats like this can strengthen the bond you share, and I hope this recipe brings comfort and happiness to you and your cat.
