Giving your cat tasty food is important. Cats like wet food and gravy. Gravy makes food moist and flavorful. It can help if your cat does not drink enough water. Homemade gravy is safe and healthy. It is easy to make at home. This guide will show you how.
Why Make Cat Food Gravy?
- Hydration: Cats often do not drink enough water.
- Flavor: Gravy adds taste to dry or plain food.
- Nutrition: You control the ingredients and keep it healthy.
- Variety: Cats like different tastes and textures.
What Ingredients Are Safe for Cat Gravy?
Not all ingredients are good for cats. Some can be harmful. Avoid onions, garlic, salt, and spices. Use simple, healthy ingredients. Here are safe ingredients for cat gravy:
| Ingredient | Why Use It? |
|---|---|
| Chicken or Beef Broth (no salt) | Makes tasty liquid base |
| Water | To thin the gravy and add hydration |
| Cooked Chicken or Beef (plain) | Adds protein and flavor |
| Cornstarch or Rice Flour | Thickens the gravy without spices |
| Cooked Pumpkin or Sweet Potato | Natural fiber and gentle on stomach |
Step-by-Step Guide to Make Cat Food Gravy
Follow these steps to make fresh, homemade cat gravy.
Step 1: Prepare The Broth
Use chicken or beef broth without salt or spices. You can buy low-sodium broth or make your own. To make broth:
- Boil chicken or beef bones in water for 1-2 hours.
- Do not add onions, garlic, or salt.
- Let the broth cool and strain out bones.
Step 2: Cook The Meat
Cook chicken or beef meat without oil, salt, or spices. Boil or bake plain meat. Cut into small pieces. This adds flavor and protein to the gravy.
Step 3: Make A Thickener
Mix one teaspoon of cornstarch or rice flour with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir until smooth. This will help the gravy get thick.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Put one cup of broth in a small pot. Heat it on low fire. Slowly add the thickener mix. Stir well to avoid lumps.
Step 5: Add Meat And Optional Vegetables
Add small pieces of cooked meat into the broth. If you want, add pureed pumpkin or sweet potato. Stir gently.
Step 6: Let It Cook
Keep stirring and cook for 5-7 minutes. The gravy will thicken. Do not boil hard. Remove from heat when thick.
Step 7: Cool And Serve
Let the gravy cool to room temperature. Pour a little on your cat’s food. You can store extra gravy in the fridge for 2-3 days.
Tips for Making Cat Gravy
- Always use plain ingredients without salt or spices.
- Use fresh meat and broth for best taste.
- Test the temperature before serving to your cat.
- Give small amounts first to see if your cat likes it.
- Do not add onions or garlic—they are harmful to cats.
- Use pureed vegetables like pumpkin for extra fiber.
- Keep the gravy smooth; cats dislike chunks.
Why Avoid Certain Ingredients?
Some foods are dangerous to cats. Onions and garlic can cause illness. Salt can hurt their kidneys. Spices may upset their stomach. Homemade gravy must be safe. Keep it simple and natural.
How to Use Cat Food Gravy
Gravy can improve your cat’s meals. Here is how you can use it:
- Pour over dry cat food to soften it.
- Mix with plain wet food for extra flavor.
- Use as a treat for picky eaters.
- Help cats drink more by adding water-based gravy.
Sample Simple Cat Gravy Recipe
Try this easy recipe at home.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Low-sodium chicken broth | 1 cup |
| Cooked chicken breast, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Cornstarch | 1 teaspoon |
| Cold water | 2 tablespoons |
| Cooked pumpkin puree (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
Instructions
- Mix cornstarch and cold water until smooth.
- Heat chicken broth in a small pot on low.
- Slowly add cornstarch mix to broth. Stir well.
- Add chopped chicken and pumpkin puree.
- Cook and stir for 5 minutes until thick.
- Cool before serving to your cat.
Storage and Safety
Store leftover gravy in the fridge. Use within 2-3 days. Always check for spoilage before use. Throw away if it smells bad or looks strange. Do not freeze gravy, as texture changes.
Signs Your Cat Likes the Gravy
- Eating food faster than usual
- Licking the bowl clean
- Showing excitement near mealtime
- Drinking more water if gravy is watery