Homemade Pet Treats: Simple Recipes & Helpful Tips

Making homemade goodies for your pets is neither hard nor costly, unlike what most pet owners think. You can whip up delightful goodies in just minutes and without stretching your wallet if you know where to look. Good thing we have just what you need to make delicious yet affordable treats for your furry friends. Here are 5 helpful tips and 5 easy recipes for you to start with.

Tip #1: Keep Ingredients Simple and Safe

Pumpkin, oats, apples, and chicken are some of the best pet-friendly ingredients, so it’s a good idea to keep them stocked in your pantry. Avoid harmful ingredients like chocolate, grapes, onions, and xylitol. Those guys are fatal. They make pets sick and could cause severe damage that could lead to death.

Simpler treats are healthier and tastier for your pets, so stick to straightforward and pet-safe ingredients. If you're unsure of what to get, a quick research or call to your vet could help.

Tip #2: Choose the Right Treat Size

Size does matter when it comes to your pet treats because you don't want to overfeed or give them choking hazards. So, when making those homemade treats, it's best to adjust the size based on your pet's breed and the purpose.

For example, tiny bites are great for training, while larger chews work best for reward treats.

Tip #3: Store Them Properly

Homemade treats don’t last as long as store-bought ones, so it’s best to store them in airtight containers or freeze batches for later. Adding a label with the date you made them can help you keep track and avoid spoilage.

Better safe than sorry when it comes to your pet’s health.

Tip #4: Consider Dietary Needs

Not all pets can tolerate the same ingredients, so it’s important to consider allergies, sensitivities, or existing health issues before whipping up a batch of treats.

When in doubt, a quick chat with your vet can help you choose safe, nourishing ingredients your pet will love.

Tip #5: Make It Fun and Involve the Family

Treat-making can be just as fun for the humans as it is for the pets. Get the kids involved with mixing, shaping, or using cute cookie cutters. It turns the process into a creative, hands-on bonding moment with your furry family member.

Now that you’ve got the basics down, let’s jump into 5 easy homemade treat recipes you can try today—all simple, pet-safe, and made with love.

Recipe #1: Peanut Butter & Banana Dog Cookie

Ingredients: 1 ripe banana (mashed), 1/2 cup xylitol-free peanut butter, 1 cup rolled oats (blended into oat flour), 1 egg.

Instructions: 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. In a bowl, mix the mashed banana, peanut butter, egg, and oat flour until it forms a dough. 3. Roll the dough out on a floured surface and cut into shapes using cookie cutters. 4. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes or until golden brown. 5. Let cool completely before serving. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Recipe #2: Tuna and Catnip Cat Treats

Ingredients: 1 can of tuna in water (drained), 1 egg, 1 cup oat flour, 1 tbsp dried catnip.

Instructions: 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. Blend the tuna, egg, catnip, and flour until it forms a sticky dough. 3. Roll into small marble-sized balls and place on a lined baking sheet. 4. Flatten slightly with a fork and bake for 10–12 minutes. 5. Let cool and store in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Recipe #3: Frozen Chicken Broth Cubes (Dogs or Cats)

Ingredients: 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth, Optional: shredded cooked chicken or finely chopped. parsley

Instructions: 1. Pour the broth into silicone molds or ice cube trays. 2. Add a little chicken or parsley if using. 3. Freeze for a few hours or until solid. 4. Pop out a cube and serve as a cool treat, especially on hot days.

Recipe #4: Apple and Carrot Bunny Bites

Ingredients: 1/4 cup finely grated carrot, 1/4 cup grated apple (no seeds), 2 tbsp ground hay pellets, A splash of water.

Instructions: 1. Mix all ingredients until they form a moldable paste. 2. Scoop out small amounts and press into bite-sized shapes. 3. Place on a plate and refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm up. 4. Serve fresh or store in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Recipe #5: Hamster-Friendly Seed Balls

Ingredients: 1 tbsp mashed ripe banana, 2 tbsp rolled oats, 1 tbsp mixed safe seeds (pumpkin, flax, chia).

Instructions: 1. Mix all ingredients in a small bowl until well combined. 2. Roll into small balls — no bigger than a marble. 3. Place on a plate and chill in the fridge for 1 hour. 4. Store extras in the fridge and serve occasionally as a treat.

Have Fun Treat-Making!

Homemade pet treats are more than just goodies. They’re a fun, hands-on way to show your furry friend a little extra love. With just a few ingredients and a bit of care, you can create something special that both you and your pet will enjoy. So stock up on the basics, try a recipe or two, and most of all—have fun and enjoy treat-making!