12 DIY Cat Food Recipes With Tuna Your Feline Will Love
Let’s be real—our cats go absolutely wild for tuna. That smell, that texture, it’s like catnip in a can. But feeding your furry friend straight-from-the-can tuna every day isn’t the best idea. Too much can lead to mercury issues or missing nutrients.
That’s why I started making my own cat food at home. It’s not as hard as it sounds. You just need a few simple ingredients, some plain tuna (packed in water, no salt), and a little love. These recipes are perfect for a special treat or a meal topper. Always check with your vet before changing up your cat’s diet, especially if they have health concerns.
Ready to whip up something tasty? Here are 12 simple, cat-approved tuna recipes you can make right in your kitchen.
1. Simple Tuna & Pumpkin Mash
This is my go-to recipe when my cat needs a little digestive boost. Pumpkin is great for their tummy, and tuna makes it irresistible.
Just mash one can of tuna (drained) with two tablespoons of plain canned pumpkin. Make sure it’s 100% pumpkin, not pie filling. Mix until it looks like a chunky pâté.
Scoop a small spoonful on top of their regular kibble or serve it alone as a snack. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to two days.
2. Tuna & Egg Scramble
Eggs are a fantastic source of protein for cats. This recipe feels like a fancy breakfast for your kitty.
Cook one egg in a non-stick pan with no oil or butter. Scramble it until it’s fully cooked. Let it cool, then mix in half a can of drained tuna.
Break it up with a fork so there are no big chunks. My cat loves the fluffy texture. This is best served fresh, but you can refrigerate it for one day.
3. Creamy Tuna & Bone Broth
Perfect for older cats or picky drinkers who need extra hydration. Bone broth is full of collagen and good for joints.
Use plain, unsalted bone broth (or make your own). Warm up a quarter cup and pour it over a half can of flaked tuna. Stir gently.
Make sure it’s not hot, just warm to the touch. The liquid makes it soupy and easy to lap up. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
4. Tuna & Sardine Surprise
Sardines are tiny but mighty. They’re packed with omega-3s for a shiny coat. Just be careful—they’re strong-smelling.
Mash one sardine (packed in water, no salt) with half a can of tuna. Add a tablespoon of water to thin it out if needed.
This combo is super fishy, so your cat will go crazy. Only give this as an occasional treat because sardines are rich.
5. Tuna & Cooked Carrot Bites
Carrots add a little crunch and some vitamin A. Some cats love the texture, others just eat around it. You can always mash it in.
Steam or boil a small carrot until very soft. Mash it well, then mix with one can of tuna. Form into tiny bite-sized balls.
These are great for hiding in puzzle toys. Your cat will have to work a little for their treat.
6. Tuna & Plain Yogurt Dip
Plain, unsweetened yogurt has probiotics that can help digestion. Not all cats tolerate dairy, so start with a tiny amount.
Mix one tablespoon of plain yogurt with half a can of tuna. Stir until it becomes a creamy dip. No sugar or flavorings allowed.
Serve it on a flat plate so your cat can lick it up. It’s messy but very fun for them.
7. Tuna & Oatmeal Porridge
Oatmeal is a gentle grain that can soothe an upset stomach. Make sure it’s plain, cooked oatmeal with no sugar or milk.
Cook a small amount of oatmeal with water. Let it cool to room temperature. Mix in half a can of tuna until it looks like a thick porridge.
This is a comforting meal for a rainy day or when your cat feels a little off.
8. Tuna & Blueberry Pops
Blueberries are safe for cats in small amounts. They’re full of antioxidants. This is a cool summer treat.
Blend half a can of tuna with three or four blueberries and a little water. Pour the mixture into an ice cube tray.
Freeze until solid. Pop one out on a hot day and watch your cat bat it around before licking it. Super entertaining.
9. Tuna & Spinach Flakes
Spinach is loaded with vitamins, but some cats don’t love greens. Flaking it very small helps hide the taste.
Steam a few spinach leaves until wilted. Chop them into tiny flakes. Mix with one can of tuna and a splash of water.
The green flakes look pretty and add a nutrient boost. My cat doesn’t even notice the spinach.
10. Tuna & Shrimp Medley
Shrimp is another seafood favorite. It’s low in fat and high in protein. Keep it plain and cooked.
Cook one small shrimp (no shell, no seasoning). Chop it into tiny pieces. Mix with half a can of tuna.
This feels like a gourmet meal. Serve it on a fancy little plate for extra fun.
11. Tuna & Zucchini Noodles
Zucchini is low-calorie and hydrating. Spiralizing it makes it look like fun noodles for your cat.
Use a vegetable peeler to make thin strips of zucchini. Steam them for one minute until soft. Chop into small pieces.
Mix with half a can of tuna. The texture is different and interesting. Some cats love the novelty.
12. Tuna & Chicken Liver Pâté
Liver is a superfood for cats, packed with iron and B vitamins. Just a tiny bit goes a long way.
Cook one small piece of chicken liver (no seasoning). Mash it well with a fork. Mix with one can of tuna until smooth.
This pâté is very rich. Serve just a teaspoon at a time. Store the rest in the fridge for up to three days.
Conclusion
Making homemade treats for your cat doesn’t have to be complicated. These tuna recipes use simple, whole ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Just remember to keep everything plain—no salt, no oil, no spices. Your cat will thank you with purrs and happy meows.
Start with one recipe and see how your cat reacts. Every cat has their own taste. Some love pumpkin, others prefer plain tuna with nothing else. The best part? You know exactly what’s in their food. No mystery fillers or preservatives.
Happy cooking, and give your kitty an extra chin scratch for me.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned tuna for cats?
Yes, but always choose tuna packed in water with no salt or oil. Avoid tuna in brine or sunflower oil. Drain it well before using.
How much homemade tuna food can I give my cat?
These recipes are treats, not a full meal replacement. A tablespoon or two per day is plenty. Too much tuna can lead to mercury buildup.
Is tuna safe for cats every day?
No, it’s best to limit tuna to a few times per week. Cats can become addicted to the taste and refuse other foods. Variety is key.
Can I freeze these recipes?
Yes! Most of these recipes freeze well for up to one month. Use an ice cube tray for single servings. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
What if my cat doesn’t like a recipe?
That’s totally normal. Cats are picky. Try a different recipe or mix the tuna with something they already love, like their favorite kibble.
