I’m so happy to share this simple mackerel cat cracker recipe because it turns basic pantry items into a crunchy little fish treat many cats enjoy. These crackers use canned mackerel, breadcrumbs, and egg to create small, crispy bites with a strong fish smell that often grabs a cat’s attention fast. Everything is baked at home, so you can avoid unnecessary additives and control what goes into the treats. I like that the pieces are tiny, which makes them easy to portion. They are meant as an occasional snack, not a full meal.
The first time I made these crackers, I noticed how curious cats get as soon as the mackerel comes out of the can. Fish has a smell that travels fast, and it usually brings cats into the kitchen right away. I wanted a crunchy treat instead of something soft, and these little baked bites did the job.
What makes this recipe special is how simple it is. You mash the fish, mix everything together, and bake small spoonfuls until firm. Once cooled, they turn into crisp crackers that are easy to store and serve.
I also like that the treats are very small. This helps with portion control and makes them good for quick rewards.
Key benefits:
- Simple pantry ingredients
- Strong fish flavor many cats love
- Small, crunchy pieces
- Baked at home with no fancy tools
- Easy to store in the fridge or freezer
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 Mackerel Cat Crackers
- Preheat the oven and prepare a baking sheet.
- Mash the canned mackerel into very small pieces.
- Add the remaining ingredients and mix well.
- Scoop tiny portions onto the baking sheet.
- Bake until set and firm.
- Let the crackers cool completely.
- Store and serve in small amounts.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup canned mackerel, drained (rinsed if salty, no added onion or garlic)
- 1 cup dry whole grain breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 teaspoon brewer’s yeast (optional)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet so the crackers do not stick.
- Place the drained mackerel in a bowl and mash it with a fork until the pieces are very small.
- Add the beaten egg and vegetable oil to the bowl and mix well.
- Stir in the breadcrumbs and brewer’s yeast if using. Mix until everything comes together into a thick mixture.
- The mixture should hold together when pressed. If it feels very dry, gently press it together with your fingers.
- Drop small portions, about 1/4 teaspoon each, onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for about 8 minutes, until the crackers are set and feel firm to the touch.
- Remove from the oven and let the crackers cool completely before serving or storing.
Process Details
- The mixture may feel a bit dry, but it should still press together when shaped.
- Very small portions help the crackers bake evenly and stay crisp.
- Flattening the drops slightly can help them firm up faster.
- Crackers will harden more as they cool, so do not judge texture straight from the oven.
- Keeping pieces tiny makes them safer and easier for cats to eat.
Tips for Success
- Check the canned mackerel label and avoid added salt, onion, or garlic.
- Rinsing the mackerel under cold water can help reduce salt.
- Keep treat sizes very small since these are rich.
- Do not overfeed. These are treats, not a complete meal.
- Stick closely to the ingredient amounts provided.
- If your cat has food sensitivities, talk to your vet before offering new treats.
Serving Ideas
- Offer one small cracker as an occasional reward.
- Break a cracker into smaller bits for training moments.
- Use as a special treat during grooming or nail trims.
- Serve on birthdays or adoption anniversaries.
- Adjust portions based on your cat’s size and regular diet.
Storage & Freezing
- Store cooled crackers in an airtight container.
- Keep them in the refrigerator to help them stay fresh.
- Freeze extra crackers in a sealed container for longer storage.
- Thaw frozen treats fully before serving.
- Discard any treats that smell off, show mold, or feel sticky or very soft.
These mackerel cat crackers are an easy way to make crunchy fish treats at home using simple ingredients. Making them yourself lets you control portions and skip unnecessary extras.
- Shape them smaller for kittens or senior cats.
- Make them slightly flatter for extra crunch.
- Share only with cats whose vets approve.
- Watch your cat closely the first time they try them.
Making homemade treats is a small but meaningful way to care for your cat and strengthen the bond you share.
