Does anyone have a good recipe for a healty, homemade cat food?

1. 83

   Stephanie Henkelposted 13 years ago

   Does anyone have a good recipe for a healty, homemade cat food?
   
   My cat seems to become sick on even the most expensive cat food, canned or dry. Anyone make their own?

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2. 92

   Jackie Lynnleyposted 13 years ago

   I wanted one too and found this online that sounded good but I have not yet tried it. >
   A cat's daily diet should consist of four parts protein to one- two parts carbohydrates
   It can be fed raw or lightly cooked depending on your cat and situation. Be sure never to feed any animal cooked bones. Always chop finely or blend raw vegetables to break down cell walls and make them digestible for your feline friend.
   One part of protein is equal to
   2 oz. meat or fish
   1 medium egg
   1/2 cup yogurt- note that 1/2 cup of yogurt counts as 1 unit of carbohydrate as well
   1/3 cup cottage cheese- note that 1/3 cup of cottage cheese counts as 1 unit of carbohydrate as well
   2 oz. organ meat-you can feed up to one unit of organ meat several times a week if desired.
   Carbohydrates
   You need to feed 1 to 2 units of carbohydrates per day
   One part of carbohydrate is equal to
   1 cup vegetables such as-broccoli, Brussel sprouts, green beans, peas, cabbage, spinach, squashes
   1/2 cup fruits such as-melons, berries, bananas, tomatoes, apples; also carrots at 1/2 cup.
   1/4 cup cooked beans, lentils or chick peas
   1/3 cup of grains such as-oatmeal or barley can be added if you wish. These are the best of the grain type carbohydrates for a cat but note that grains in general are the least favorable type of carbohydrate. Try to limit or avoid these carbohydrates if your cat allows . Whole wheat pasta or brown rice are other options although not preferred.
   Supplements
   1/2 teaspoon bone meal
   Multivitamin for cats- whole food source is preferred.  Your cat should be supplemented with 50-100 mg of taurine per day depending on the size of cat.  Meat loses much of its taurine content when cooked. Check your multi to see if it is supplied or if you need an additional supplement.
   500-1000 mg fish oil
   Antioxidants as directed for felines
   Note that this diet will not be adequate or appropriate for all cats. Be sure to check with your veterinarian before beginning this or any other new diet for your cat.
   Hope you will let us know if you try it how it works out and if your cat liked it.

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3. 62

   Lindsey McCollposted 13 years ago

   While I haven't yet tried making my own, the key to healthy cat food is to go grain-free. Because of a lack of time, I gave up on homemade and switched to Wellness Core products (I use wet food because it's better for hairballs, but I think they also make a dry version).
   
   Cats are obligate carnivores. When looking for a recipe, you'll want one that's very low in grains/starches, low in fiber (on a true "natural" diet, a feline's only source of grain or fiber is whatever's left in the stomach of their prey), and contains essential vitamins like taurine (critical for optical, digestive and cardiac health), B-12, and vitamin A (found in liver and egg yolks).
   
   The recipe found here: http://catinfo.org/?link=makingcatfood looks like it would be very good for everyday feeding as it has no grain, minimal fiber, and all the necessary vitamins. (Cats MUST have taurine to stay healthy! Lack of it may even cause blindness and retinal deterioration.)
   
   That link also features advice on getting your cats used to the taste of homemade cat food, and the raw vs. cooked argument.

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4. 0

   Deb Welchposted 13 years ago

   I doctor up cat food with baby food veggies and sprinkle some dry food on top.  I also drizzle turkey or chicken gravy on top of cat food.  I buy all different kinds - expensive to cheap.  When I buy tuna fish - I drain the water out into a small bowl and every cat I have owned loves this.  I also mash potatoes, peas, etc.. my veggies and add to dry food.  My cats are healthy and have beautiful eyes and fur. I bought a multi-vitamin at PetSmart and this is a new idea - not everyday but a couple times a week. Paul Newman's cat food is a big favorite - too.

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5. 78

   Mardiposted 13 years ago

   Basic information cat nutrition and a simple recipe for homemade cat food is provided. Always check with your vet before starting your pet on any homemade diet. read more

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