Homemade Tuna Puffs for CatsTreat your feline friend to a delicious, healthy homemade snack! These tuna puffs are packed with protein, healthy fats, and all-natural ingredients that will make your cat purr with delight. Perfect for special occasions or just as a regular treat, these puffs are easy to make and will keep your cat happy and healthy.
Ingredients:
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1 can of tuna in water (drained)
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Why it’s good: Tuna is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for your cat’s muscle health, coat condition, and overall well-being. Omega-3s also support brain function and can help reduce inflammation. Be sure to choose tuna that’s packed in water, not oil, as oil can be too rich for cats and might upset their stomachs.
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Tip: If you prefer, you can use tuna in spring water or tuna in a brine solution, but make sure to drain it well to avoid excess salt.
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1/2 cup oat flour
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Why it’s good: Oat flour is a healthy, gluten-free alternative to traditional wheat flour. It’s gentle on your cat’s digestive system and provides essential fiber, which helps maintain a healthy digestive tract. Fiber also promotes better gut health and can help with constipation.
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Tip: If you don’t have oat flour, you can easily make it by grinding rolled oats in a food processor until it reaches a fine flour-like texture.
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1 egg (beaten)
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Why it’s good: Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, rich in amino acids that help with muscle repair and overall growth. They are also packed with B vitamins and essential fatty acids that contribute to a shiny coat and healthy skin. Additionally, the egg acts as a binder in the dough, helping the ingredients stick together.
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Tip: Be sure to cook the eggs thoroughly for safety reasons, as raw eggs can pose a risk of salmonella or other bacteria.
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1/4 cup low-fat cream cheese (optional)
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Why it’s good: This adds richness and creaminess to the tuna puffs. In small amounts, cream cheese is safe for cats and can be a good source of calcium and fat. However, cats are obligate carnivores and don’t need dairy in their diet, so use it sparingly, especially if your cat has sensitivities to dairy.
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Tip: Make sure you’re using a low-fat, plain cream cheese without added sugars or flavorings.
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1 tablespoon parsley (finely chopped, optional)
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Why it’s good: Parsley is a safe herb for cats in moderation and has a host of benefits. It’s known to support urinary tract health, aid digestion, and even help with bad breath. Parsley contains vitamins A, C, and K, which contribute to your cat’s overall health.
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Tip: If you’re unsure whether your cat enjoys the taste of parsley, start with a small amount, as not all cats are fond of herbs. If your cat doesn’t like it, you can skip this ingredient.
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1 tablespoon water (if needed)
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Why it’s good: Depending on the consistency of your dough, you may need to add a little bit of water to help bring the dough together. Water helps hydrate the dough and ensures it’s easy to work with, making it easier to form into puffs.
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Tip: If you find your dough too sticky or dry, adjust with small amounts of water or extra flour until you achieve a workable consistency.
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Directions:
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Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the tuna puffs. You’ll want to make sure the oven is fully preheated so the treats bake evenly.
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Prepare the tuna: Open your can of tuna, drain it thoroughly to remove any excess water, and break the tuna into smaller chunks using a fork. This will make it easier to mix with the other ingredients.
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Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, oat flour, beaten egg, and optional cream cheese. If you’re using parsley, add it to the mix as well. Stir everything together until a dough forms. If the dough feels too dry, add a small amount of water at a time to reach a dough-like consistency. It should be moist enough to form shapes but not too sticky.
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Shape the puffs: Once your dough is ready, take small portions and shape them into balls or use your hands to form small puff-like shapes. Each puff should be around 1-inch in size for easy serving. You can also use a small scoop or melon baller to ensure uniform sizes.
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Arrange on a baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. Arrange the shaped dough on the baking sheet, leaving space between each puff to allow for even baking. You don’t need to flatten them—they will puff up slightly while baking.
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Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the tuna puffs are lightly golden brown and firm to the touch. They should not be soft in the center when pressed.
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Cool: Let the tuna puffs cool completely on the baking sheet before serving them to your cat. This helps them firm up and ensures they’re not too hot for your feline friend to eat.
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Serve: Offer your cat one or two tuna puffs as a treat! Remember, these puffs are rich in protein, so serve them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Yields:
This recipe should make approximately 12-15 small puffs, depending on how large or small you make them. If you’re making larger treats, you’ll get fewer servings, so adjust accordingly.
Storage:
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Refrigeration: Tuna puffs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent moisture and to maintain freshness.
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Freezing: If you’ve made a larger batch or want to store some for later, you can freeze the tuna puffs. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer the frozen puffs to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to serve, thaw them in the fridge for several hours or let them sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before offering them to your cat.
Important Notes:
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Moderation is key: Tuna puffs are a treat and should not replace your cat’s regular meals. Serve them in moderation, as excessive tuna can lead to nutrient imbalances. A couple of puffs a day is plenty for most cats.
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Dietary considerations: Always check with your vet if you are introducing new ingredients into your cat’s diet, especially if your cat has any food sensitivities or health conditions. Some cats may be lactose intolerant, so skip the cream cheese if needed.
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Customizing the recipe: If your cat is not a fan of tuna, you can try substituting it with other fish like salmon or chicken. Be sure to cook any meat thoroughly and remove any bones before mixing it with the other ingredients.
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Avoid toxic ingredients: Never use garlic, onions, or other ingredients that are toxic to cats. Always keep treats simple and safe for your furry friend.
Enjoy watching your cat enjoy these homemade tuna puffs! Whether it’s a special treat for a good behavior or just a little snack, your cat is sure to love them. Treats like these are not only delicious but also a great way to bond with your pet. 🐱❤️