A growing number of pet parents have bid adieu to store-bought pet treats and started making their companions’ snacks at home, and we at Fera Pet Organics are in full support of this budding trend. There are many great benefits to homemade pet treats that you just won’t find in a bag of commercial treats. 

Here’s why we love homemade pet treats vs. store-bought and some fun and easy recipes that you can try at home today. 

Why We Love Homemade Pet Treats

Quality Control

Many store-bought treats contain artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers that may not be the healthiest option for your pet. By crafting treats at home, you have full control over what ingredients go into your furry friend’s treats. Whether you choose fruits, vegetables, or a good pet supplement, you have the power to ensure they enjoy a wholesome and nutritious snack every time. 

Tailored to Dietary Needs

Every pet is unique, and so are their dietary needs. Some pets might have allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients found in commercial treats. Homemade treats allow you to tailor recipes to suit your companion’s specific dietary requirements. 

Whether your pet needs grain-free, gluten-free, or special protein sources, you can customize treats that cater to their one-of-a-kind needs and tastes.

Freshness Guaranteed

Commercial pet treats have a longer shelf life due to the addition of preservatives. However, this often means sacrificing the freshness of the ingredients. Homemade pet treats, on the other hand, are prepared with fresh, whole foods, ensuring that your pet receives the maximum nutritional benefit from every bite. Just be sure to store them correctly to keep them fresh and tasty for as long as possible. 

Cost-Effective

Seasoned pet parents know that the cost of pet treats can add up over time. Making treats at home allows you to buy ingredients in bulk, which can reduce the overall cost. Plus, many homemade pet treat recipes call for common ingredients you might already have in your kitchen, making it a budget-friendly alternative to store-bought options.

Bonding Experience

Huddling into the kitchen to make homemade treats for your furry family members can be a fun memory-making opportunity for everyone. Get the whole family involved by giving each person a task. If it’s just you and your four-legged friend, they can help by being the official taste testers. However you decide to make your homemade pet treats, don’t forget to have fun! 

6 Pawsitively Delicious Homemade Pet Treat Recipes 

For Dogs 

Peanut Butter Banana Bites

Ingredients

• 1 ripe banana
• 1 cup oat flour
• 1/2 cup natural peanut butter (make sure it doesn't contain xylitol)
• 1 egg

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
• Mash the banana in a bowl and add the oat flour, peanut butter, and egg. Mix until well combined.
• Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Flatten each ball with a fork to create a cookie shape.
• Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
• Allow the treats to cool completely before serving.

Sweet Potato Chews

Ingredients

• 2 sweet potatoes

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
• Wash and peel the sweet potatoes.
• Slice the sweet potatoes into thin, even strips.
• Place the strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake for 2-3 hours, turning the slices halfway through, until they are dried and chewy.
• Let them cool completely before offering them to your pet.

Chicken and Carrot Pupcakes

Ingredients

• 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
• In a bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, shredded carrots, whole wheat flour, egg, and applesauce until well combined.
• Spoon the mixture into greased cupcake tins.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Allow the pupcakes to cool before serving.

For Cats 

Salmon Crunchies

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup canned salmon, undrained
• 1 cup oat flour
• 1 egg

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
• In a blender or food processor, combine the canned salmon (including the liquid), oat flour, and egg. Blend until a dough forms.
• Roll the dough into small balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Flatten each ball with the back of a fork or your fingers.
• Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the treats are firm.
• Allow the treats to cool completely before serving.

Cheesy Cat Bites

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup oat flour
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt
• 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
• In a bowl, mix together the shredded cheddar cheese, oat flour, plain yogurt, and chopped parsley until well combined.
• Form small balls or use cookie cutters to shape the treats and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the treats are golden brown.
• Allow the treats to cool before serving.

Turkey and Cranberry Crunchers

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup cooked turkey, shredded
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries, finely chopped
• 1 cup oat flour
• 1 egg

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C).
• In a bowl, mix together the shredded turkey, chopped dried cranberries, oat flour, and egg until well combined.
• Form the mixture into small balls or use cookie cutters to create shapes and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Bake for 15-18 minutes or until the treats are golden brown.
• Allow the treats to cool completely before serving.

Give Your Homemade Pet Treats a Nutritious Boost