19 Tuna Cat Treats That Cats Go Crazy For
Let me be real with you—my cat, Mochi, is basically a tuna monster. The second I crack open a can, she appears out of thin air, meowing like she hasn’t eaten in days. I’ve spent way too much time experimenting with tuna treats in my kitchen, and I’m ready to share everything I’ve learned.
These 19 ideas are simple, affordable, and guaranteed to make your cat lose their little mind. No fancy equipment needed, just a can of tuna and a little love. Let’s dive in—your cat will thank you later.
Always use tuna packed in water (not oil or brine) and choose skipjack or light tuna to keep mercury low. These are treats, not meals, so keep portions small.
1. Plain Flaked Tuna (The Classic)
Sometimes simple is best. Drain a can of water-packed tuna, flake it with a fork, and serve a tiny pinch. My cat does a happy dance every time.
It’s the easiest treat on this list and perfect for picky eaters. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to two days.
2. Tuna Juice Ice Cubes
Don’t pour that tuna water down the drain! Pour it into an ice cube tray and freeze. Pop one cube in your cat’s water bowl on a hot day.
It’s like a popsicle for cats. Keeps them hydrated and entertained. Just watch them lick and paw at it for ages.
3. Two-Ingredient Tuna Cookies
Mix one can of drained tuna with one egg. Form tiny teaspoon-sized blobs on a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F for 10 minutes.
Let them cool completely. These crunchy bites keep in the fridge for a week. My cat goes bonkers for the smell alone.
4. Tuna and Catnip Balls
Combine flaked tuna, a sprinkle of dried catnip, and a little oat flour until it forms a dough. Roll into pea-sized balls.
Refrigerate for 20 minutes before serving. The catnip plus tuna combo is basically cat crack. Your cat will roll around in ecstasy.
5. Dehydrated Tuna Flakes
Spread flaked tuna on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake at 200°F for 2–3 hours until completely dry and crispy.
Crush into a powder for a topper on regular food. It’s like parmesan cheese for cats—they’ll eat every last bite.
6. Tuna and Pumpkin Puree
Mix one tablespoon of plain canned pumpkin with two tablespoons of flaked tuna. Pumpkin is great for digestion.
Serve as a spoonable treat. My cat licks the bowl clean. Just make sure it’s pure pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling.
7. Frozen Tuna Yogurt Drops
Blend a little plain Greek yogurt with flaked tuna. Drop tiny spoonfuls onto a parchment-lined tray. Freeze until solid.
These are perfect for summer or as a teething treat for kittens. The yogurt adds probiotics, which is a nice bonus.
8. Tuna Stuffed Kongs
Mash tuna with a little water and stuff it into a cat-sized Kong toy. Freeze it overnight for a long-lasting challenge.
It keeps your cat busy for 20 minutes or more. Great for rainy days or when you need some quiet time.
9. Broth Soaked Tuna Bits
Warm up some low-sodium chicken broth (no onions or garlic) and pour it over flaked tuna. Let it soak for a minute.
Serve in a shallow dish. The warm liquid releases all the aromas. It’s basically cat soup, and they love it.
10. Tuna and Oatmeal Bites
Cook plain oatmeal, let it cool, then mix with equal parts flaked tuna. Roll into small balls and refrigerate.
Oatmeal adds fiber and makes the treat more filling. Great for cats who need a little extra weight management.
11. Seared Tuna Strips
Cut fresh tuna into thin strips. Sear quickly in a hot non-stick pan (no oil) for 30 seconds per side. Let cool.
The outside gets a little crispy while the inside stays tender. It feels fancy but takes two minutes to make.
12. Tuna and Egg White Frittata
Whisk two egg whites with flaked tuna. Pour into a mini muffin tin. Bake at 350°F for 12 minutes.
These little egg cups are soft and easy to chew. Perfect for senior cats with dental issues. Store in the fridge.
13. Tuna and Sweet Potato Mash
Bake a sweet potato until soft. Mash a small amount and mix with flaked tuna. Sweet potato is packed with vitamins.
Serve a tiny spoonful. My cat likes it warm (but not hot). It’s a comforting, healthy treat for chilly days.
14. Tuna and Sardine Pâté
Blend one can of tuna (drained) with one sardine packed in water (no salt added). Add a splash of water to reach a pâté consistency.
Spread on a lick mat or spoon. The sardine adds extra omega-3s for a shiny coat. Your cat will go absolutely nuts.
15. Tuna Bone Broth Gelatin Treats
Warm up low-sodium bone broth (cat-safe, no onions). Sprinkle unflavored gelatin over it. Add flaked tuna. Pour into silicone molds and refrigerate.
These jiggly treats are fun to eat and hydrating. My cat bats them around before eating them. Entertainment and snack in one.
16. Tuna and Shrimp Crunchies
Dehydrate small shrimp pieces in the oven at 200°F until crispy. Crush them up and mix with flaked tuna.
The texture combination is irresistible. It’s like a seafood trail mix. Store in an airtight jar for up to two weeks.
17. Tuna and Coconut Oil Drops
Melt a little coconut oil and stir in flaked tuna. Drop onto parchment paper and refrigerate until hard.
Coconut oil is good for skin and coat health. These melt in your cat’s mouth—or on your fingers, so serve cold.
18. Tuna and Kelp Powder Seasoning
Mix one teaspoon of dried kelp powder (available at health stores) with half a cup of dehydrated tuna flakes.
Shake a pinch over your cat’s regular food. Kelp adds iodine and trace minerals. It turns kibble into something gourmet.
19. Tuna and Turkey Mini Meatballs
Mix equal parts ground turkey and flaked tuna. Add one egg and a little oat flour. Form tiny meatballs and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.
These are protein-packed and filling. Freeze them in batches and thaw one as needed. My cat does backflips for these.
Conclusion
There you have it—19 ways to turn a simple can of tuna into treats your cat will absolutely lose it over. I’ve made all of these at home, and each one has been a hit with my picky little princess. The best part? You probably already have most of the ingredients in your kitchen.
Remember, treats should only make up about 10% of your cat’s daily calories. Tuna is addictive for cats, so rotate these with other protein sources like chicken or salmon. And always watch for any signs of upset tummy when introducing new foods.
Now go make your cat’s day. They deserve it.
FAQ
Can I give my cat tuna every day?
It’s best to stick to 2–3 times a week. Tuna has higher mercury levels than other fish, and cats can become addicted to it. Use it as a special treat, not a daily meal.
Is canned tuna safe for cats?
Yes, but only tuna packed in water with no added salt or oil. Avoid tuna in brine or oil—the salt and fat are bad for cats. Always check the label.
How much tuna can I give my cat at once?
A teaspoon or two is plenty. For small cats, even less. Tuna treats should be tiny—think of them as a snack, not a meal replacement.
My cat is allergic to fish. Can I substitute something?
Absolutely. Try these recipes with cooked chicken, turkey, or even plain scrambled eggs. The techniques are the same—just swap the tuna for a protein your cat tolerates.
Can kittens eat tuna treats?
Yes, but in very small amounts. Kittens have sensitive stomachs. Wait until they’re at least 12 weeks old, and introduce any new treat slowly. Always consult your vet first.
