Homemade Cat Bone Broth: A Simple Recipe for a Healthy Kitty
I remember the first time I made bone broth for my cat, Luna. She was getting older, and I wanted to support her joints, coat, and overall energy. I searched high and low for a clean, simple recipe that didn’t include onions or garlic (both toxic to cats!). Everything I found was either too complicated or had ingredients I didn’t trust.
So, I started experimenting in my own kitchen. After a few batches (and plenty of enthusiastic purring from Luna), I landed on this foolproof method. It uses just two main ingredients, takes very little active effort, and creates a nourishing liquid that even picky cats adore. The best part? You can control exactly what goes into it, meaning no mystery additives or excess sodium.
This broth has become a weekly staple in our home. I drizzle it over Luna’s dry food, freeze it into little ice cube treats, and even use it to encourage her to drink more water on hot days. It’s genuinely one of the easiest ways to show your cat some extra love through food.
Equipment You’ll Need
You don’t need any fancy gadgets for this recipe. A large stockpot or a slow cooker works perfectly. I prefer using a slow cooker because it simmers gently without me having to watch the stove. A fine-mesh strainer is essential for catching tiny bone fragments. You’ll also want a few glass jars or silicone ice cube trays for storage. That’s really it—no special tools required.
Ingredients
Here’s the beautiful simplicity of this recipe: you only need two ingredients. First, about two pounds of raw, meaty chicken bones. I use chicken backs, necks, or wings from a trusted butcher or grocery store. Second, enough filtered water to cover the bones by about two inches. That’s the whole list. No salt, no vegetables, no herbs—just bones and water. Cats are obligate carnivores, so their bodies thrive on animal-based nutrition without any plant extras.
How to Make Cat Bone Broth
Start by placing your chicken bones directly into your slow cooker or stockpot. Pour in enough filtered water to cover them by about two inches. Do not add any salt or seasonings. Turn the slow cooker to low and let it simmer for 24 to 48 hours. If you’re using a stockpot on the stove, bring it to a gentle boil, then reduce to a low simmer and cover. Check every few hours to make sure the water level stays above the bones.
After the simmering time is up, turn off the heat and let the broth cool slightly. Carefully strain everything through a fine-mesh strainer into a large bowl or measuring cup. Discard the bones. Let the broth cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate. Once chilled, you’ll notice a layer of fat has solidified on top. You can scoop this off if you want a leaner broth, but a little bit of fat is fine for most cats.
Pour the finished broth into clean glass jars or ice cube trays. It will keep in the refrigerator for about five days, or in the freezer for up to three months. I like to freeze individual portions so I can thaw exactly what I need for each meal.
Why This Recipe Works for Cats
This recipe is designed specifically with feline health in mind. The long, slow simmer extracts collagen, gelatin, and minerals from the bones, which support joint health, digestion, and a shiny coat. Because there are no added vegetables or seasonings, it’s safe even for cats with sensitive stomachs. The broth is also a wonderful way to increase your cat’s water intake, which is crucial for kidney health. Plus, it’s incredibly cost-effective compared to store-bought broths that often contain garlic or onion powder.
Conclusion
Making homemade bone broth for your cat is one of those small acts of care that can make a big difference. It’s simple, affordable, and packed with natural goodness. Whether you have a senior cat needing joint support, a picky eater who needs encouragement, or just want to add a little extra love to mealtime, this broth is a winner. Luna gives it two paws up, and I bet your cat will too.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use beef or turkey bones instead of chicken?
Yes, absolutely. Just make sure the bones are raw and meaty. Beef bones may need a longer simmer time (up to 48 hours) to fully extract their nutrients.
2. Is it safe to leave the slow cooker on for 24 hours?
Yes, it is safe. Slow cookers are designed for long, low-temperature cooking. Just make sure yours is in good working condition and placed on a heat-safe surface away from anything flammable.
3. How much broth should I give my cat per day?
Start with one to two tablespoons per day for an average-sized cat. You can adjust based on your cat’s size and how they respond. It’s a supplement, not a meal replacement.
4. My cat is on a special diet. Can I still give them this broth?
It’s always best to check with your veterinarian first, especially if your cat has kidney disease, pancreatitis, or other health conditions. In most cases, plain bone broth is safe, but your vet knows your cat’s specific needs.
5. Can I add turmeric or ginger for extra health benefits?
I recommend sticking to plain bone broth for cats. Turmeric and ginger, while beneficial for humans, can upset a cat’s digestive system. Keep it simple—just bones and water.
