Homemade Crunchy Cat Treats
If your cats are anything like ours, they can hear a treat bag open from across the house—and these crunchy homemade cat treats definitely grabbed our cats attention! Packed with protein from ground turkey and omega-rich sardines, this simple two-ingredient recipe is a feline favorite, and let’s be honest—your dogs will probably try to sneak a few too!
The sardines provide healthy fats that support your cat’s skin and coat, while the ground turkey is a lean source of protein that helps keep them strong and satisfied. These treats bake up into small, crispy bites that are perfect for rewarding your cat or adding a bit of crunch to their daily routine.
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Why Your Cat Will Love This Recipe
Cats are natural carnivores, and this crunchy treat is made with two of their favorite things—sardines and turkey! The rich aroma of sardines is irresistible to most cats, and it’s not just tasty—it’s good for them too.
Plus, the crispy texture of these baked treats satisfies your cat’s natural urge to chew, making them a fun and rewarding snack. Whether you’re offering one as a reward or just because, your cat will love every crunchy bite!
Ingredients
These two ingredients combine into a protein-packed, flavorful treat your cat will love—simple, nutritious, and purr-approved!
Sardines – Sardines are a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids, which help promote healthy skin, a shiny coat, and overall heart and brain health in cats. They’re also rich in protein, calcium, and vitamin D. Using sardines packed in water (not oil or sauce) ensures the treat is gentle on your cat’s stomach and free from added sodium or spices.
Ground Turkey – Lean and high in protein, ground turkey is an excellent choice for homemade cat treats. It’s easy to digest, supports muscle development, and provides essential nutrients like B vitamins, zinc, and selenium. Make sure to use plain, unseasoned turkey without added onions, garlic, or spices, which are harmful to cats.
How To Make Homemade Crunchy Cat Treats
We used a silicone mat to make these but you could bake the mixture flat and cut it into small pieces too.
Add the two ingredients in a bowl.
Combine thoroughly.
Spread over a silicone mold and spread.
Bake until crispy and golden.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- If the mixture is too soft, add a little oat flour or a spoonful of canned pumpkin to firm it up before shaping.
- Cut into tiny bite-sized pieces or use a mini cookie cutter for fun shapes.
- For a softer texture (especially for older cats), reduce baking time slightly.
Alternatives to Using a Silicone Mold
- Roll and Cut:
- Roll the mixture out on a lightly floured surface (use oat or rice flour) to about ¼-inch thickness.
- Use a small cookie cutter or knife to cut the dough into tiny shapes or squares that are cat-sized.
- Pinch and Press:
- Pinch off small amounts of the mixture and roll them into tiny balls.
- Flatten each slightly with your fingers or the back of a spoon for even baking.
- Drop and Bake:
- Use a small spoon or your fingers to drop small dollops of the mixture onto a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Try to keep the size uniform for even cooking—about the size of a cat kibble.
- Pipe the Mixture:
- If the mixture is soft enough, you can scoop it into a piping bag (or a plastic sandwich bag with the tip cut off).
- Pipe out small dots or lines onto a baking sheet for bite-sized nibbles.
- Cut into Strips:
- Spread the mixture thinly on a parchment-lined baking tray and bake as one large sheet.
- Once baked and cooled, use a knife or scissors to cut it into small crunchy strips or squares.
These simple methods let you get creative and still make tasty, crunchy treats your cat will adore—no special equipment needed!
Storage Tips
Let the treats cool completely before storing. Keep them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze them for longer storage—just thaw a few at a time when your cat is ready to snack.
How Many Servings Does This Recipe Make?
This recipe makes about 60–80 small treats—roughly ½ teaspoon to 1 teaspoon in size each, which is a typical serving for cat treats.
You can give your cat 2–3 treats per day as a snack or reward, depending on their size, age, and dietary needs. Always consider treats as part of your cat’s daily calorie intake and adjust their regular food portions if needed.
If you’re using a silicone mold with small cavities (like fish or paw prints), expect to fill one standard mold tray (around 50–60 treats).
Watch Us Make The Recipe
More Homemade Cat Treat Recipes
There’s something satisfying about your cat enjoying homemade treats which they enjoy! Try these other recipes which were a hit with my cats!
Homemade Crunch Cat Treats
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Ingredients
- 3 oz sardines in water
- 1 cup ground turkey unseasoned
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
- In a bowl, add the sardines and ground turkey and mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Spoon the mixture into a silicone mold, pressing it down to fill each cavity.
- 40-50 minutes, or until the treats are firm and golden brown around the edges.
- Cool completely before serving. The treats will firm up more as they cool.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
The information shown is an estimate provided by an online nutrition calculator.