Tuna & Catnip Bites
Small, crunchy bites that most cats find hard to resist. We use water-packed tuna and a little dried catnip. Keep portions tiny—these are treats, not meals. Avoid tuna in oil or with added salt. Before you start, skim our Ingredients to Avoid list so you don’t add anything harmful (e.g. onion, garlic, or chocolate).
Why This Recipe Works
Minimal ingredients mean fewer things that can upset a sensitive stomach. Oat or coconut flour binds the mixture; egg adds protein. Catnip is optional but often increases interest. Unlike our dog-focused Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Biscuits or Sweet Potato Chews, these bites are sized and flavored for cats. If you share your home with dogs, bake a batch of those recipes for them too.
When to Serve
Use these bites as training rewards, post-play snacks, or occasional treats. Keep servings small—one or two bites per session is plenty. Pair with other Guides & Recipes: Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Biscuits and Sweet Potato Chews for dogs, so the whole household gets homemade treats.
Ingredients
- 1 (5 oz) can water-packed tuna, drained well
- ½ cup oat flour or coconut flour
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp dried catnip
Use plain tuna with no added seasonings. If you use coconut flour, you may need a bit more egg or a splash of water; the dough should hold together without being sticky. Never use tuna packed in oil or with added salt, onion, or garlic—see Ingredients to Avoid for the full list.
Steps
1. Combine
Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C). Mash the drained tuna in a bowl, then mix in the flour, egg, and catnip until evenly combined.
2. Shape
Roll into small balls (about ½" across) and flatten slightly. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Keep bites small so they bake through and are easy for cats to eat.
3. Bake
Bake for 12–15 minutes until firm and lightly golden. Cool completely before serving.
4. Store
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for longer. Thaw in the fridge before use.
Batch Baking & Storage
You can double the recipe; store extra batches in the freezer. Portion into small bags so you only thaw what you need. Unlike Sweet Potato Chews, which are fully dehydrated and keep at room temperature, these tuna bites contain moisture and must be refrigerated or frozen.
Tips and Variations
Some cats prefer softer treats; reduce bake time slightly. If your cat ignores catnip, you can omit it. Never add onion, garlic, raisins, or chocolate—all are unsafe. For more safe-ingredient ideas, see Ingredients to Avoid. If you want to try a different texture, our Peanut Butter & Pumpkin Biscuits are for dogs but show how we keep recipes simple and safe.
FAQ
Can I use salmon instead of tuna? Yes, as long as it’s plain, water-packed, and fully drained. Avoid smoked or seasoned fish.
My cat doesn’t like catnip. Omit it. The treats will still be palatable; catnip just adds extra appeal for many cats.
How many treats per day? Treats should make up no more than 10% of daily calories. One or two small bites per session is a good rule of thumb.