Cooking for Your Pets

November first is cook for your pets day, and we couldn’t be more excited to get cooking! But before you gather your measuring cups, whisks, and bowls; sit, stay, and listen to our helpful tips for healthy, simple treat recipes. 

Benefits of DIY-ing Your Pet’s Treat Stash:

The best part of making your pet’s treats is that you will always know what has gone into them. In addition, your creations can be catered to your pet’s dietary needs or restrictions. Making your own treats allows you to avoid the unhealthy additives that are typically found in store-bought treats. Finally, your creations represent new experiences for your pet’s palate – trying new foods can be incredibly exciting to your pet not to mention, rewarding for the both of you. 

How much is too much?

People love their pets like family, so shouldn’t we feed them like family? The urge to feed your fido or feline human food is strong, but there is a right and wrong way to reward your furry family members.

Someone wise once said: “in all things, moderation is key”. Generally speaking, this is true. For example, the treats you feed your pet should account for no more than 10% of their daily caloric intake. In addition, a good practice is to make your animal work for their treats. In doing so, you build a stronger bond with your animal and improve upon their obedience skills all at once. For instance, before you hand your canine their next goody, you can ask them to sit, lay down, or stay before serving them. 

Things to avoid feeding your pet;

  • Onions, garlic, chives
  • Grapes and raisins
  • Xylitol (sweetener)
  • Yeast dough
  • Raw or undercooked meat and eggs
  • Alcohol 
  • Avocado
  • Chocolate, coffee 
  • Milk and dairy (some animals are sensitive to lactose)
  • Nuts (especially Macadamia)

Recipes

With no further ado, our favorite kitty and canine-approved cuisine!

Felines  Fidos 
3 Ingredient Salmon Treats

From: The Cookie Rookie

Peanut Butter Treats 

From: Puppy Leaks

Chewy Cat Treats

From: Joy the Baker

Chicken Treats/ Kol’s Notes
Cat Croutons

From: Prime Pet Insurance

Sweet Potato Fries for Dogs/ Beagles and Bargains

Bon Appétit!