Make simple carrot and catnip crunchies at home with this tested recipe for cats. Easy steps, basic ingredients, and practical storage tips.
Safety note
Introduce new foods gradually and speak with your veterinarian before making major changes to your pet's diet.
Ingredients
- 1 cup finely grated carrot
- 1/4 cup dried catnip, plus extra for rolling
- 3/4 cup oat flour
- 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
Instructions
Grate the carrots: Wash and peel one medium carrot, then grate it on the fine side of a box grater until you have one packed cup. Place the grated carrot in a clean kitchen towel and gently press to remove excess moisture so the dough stays firm.
Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl combine the oat flour, whole wheat flour, and dried catnip. Stir with a fork until the catnip is evenly distributed throughout the flours.
Add wet ingredients: Crack the egg into the bowl with the dry mix, add the olive oil and the grated carrot. Stir with the fork, pressing the carrot into the flour until a soft dough forms that holds together when pressed.
Roll out the dough: Lightly dust a sheet of parchment paper with a little extra catnip. Place the dough on the paper, cover with another sheet, and roll to about 1/4 inch thick, keeping the edges even.
Cut the shapes: Peel back the top parchment. Use a small 1-inch cookie cutter or a knife to cut the dough into squares or simple shapes. Gather scraps, reroll once, and cut again until all dough is used.
Bake the treats: Slide the parchment with the cut pieces onto a baking sheet. Bake at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 18 to 22 minutes, turning the sheet once halfway, until the edges feel dry and lightly golden.
Cool completely: Remove the sheet from the oven and let the treats cool on the parchment for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack until fully crisp, about another 20 minutes.
Practical benefits
- Gives cats a crunchy texture to chew
- Offers a mild herb scent for light enrichment during play
Serving guidance
Offer 1 to 3 small pieces at a time as part of daily treats. Major diet changes should be discussed with a veterinarian.
Storage
Store cooled treats in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days Freeze extras in a zip bag for up to 2 months and thaw a few at a time
Substitutions
Use sweet potato in place of carrot for a slightly sweeter version Replace whole wheat flour with additional oat flour if preferred
Foods to avoid
Do not use ingredients that contain xylitol, chocolate, onions, or garlic.
Recipe answers
Cats recipe FAQ
Can this treat replace my cat's regular diet?
No. Pawdishy recipes are general recipe inspiration and should not replace a complete regular diet unless your veterinarian gives that guidance.
How should I introduce this recipe?
Start with a small amount beside regular food, introduce one new recipe at a time, and watch for appetite, stool, skin, or behavior changes.
What should I check before serving?
Check the ingredient list, serving guidance, storage instructions, substitutions, and foods-to-avoid warning before preparing the recipe.
Sources
Reference notes
Can this replace a regular diet?
No. Pawdishy recipes are general recipe inspiration and should not replace a complete regular diet unless your veterinarian gives that guidance.