Make a quick batch of simple homemade cat treats with just canned chicken, cornmeal, and an egg. Ready in 30 minutes.

ServingsSmall batch
Prep time30 min
Cook time0 min
Total time30 min
DifficultyEasy
Main ingredientChicken

Safety note

Introduce new foods gradually and speak with your veterinarian before making major changes to your pet's diet.

Ingredients

  • 1 can (5-ounce) canned chicken in water, drained
  • 1/2 cup cornmeal
  • 1 large egg

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Spoon

Instructions

  1. Heat the oven: Set the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper so the treats will not stick.

    Three-Ingredient Chicken Cornmeal Cat Treats step 1

  2. Mash the chicken: Open the can, drain the liquid, and place the chicken in the bowl. Mash it thoroughly with a fork until no large chunks remain.

    Three-Ingredient Chicken Cornmeal Cat Treats step 2

  3. Add the dry ingredient: Sprinkle the cornmeal over the mashed chicken and stir until the cornmeal is evenly distributed through the mixture.

    Three-Ingredient Chicken Cornmeal Cat Treats step 3

  4. Mix in the egg: Crack the egg into the bowl and stir everything together until a thick, slightly sticky dough forms and no dry cornmeal remains.

    Three-Ingredient Chicken Cornmeal Cat Treats step 4

  5. Shape the treats: Pinch off small portions of the mixture and roll them between your palms into pea-sized balls or short logs about half an inch long.

    Three-Ingredient Chicken Cornmeal Cat Treats step 5

  6. Arrange on the sheet: Place the shaped pieces on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them about half an inch apart so air can circulate around each one.

    Three-Ingredient Chicken Cornmeal Cat Treats step 6

  7. Bake and cool: Bake for 18 to 22 minutes until the treats feel firm and dry to the touch. Remove the sheet from the oven and let the treats cool completely on the pan before offering any to your cat.

    Three-Ingredient Chicken Cornmeal Cat Treats step 7

Practical benefits

  • Uses items most households keep on hand
  • Comes together in one bowl with no special equipment
  • Bakes into small pieces that store easily

Serving guidance

Start with one or two treats and watch how your cat responds. Major diet changes should be discussed with a veterinarian.

Storage

Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Freeze extras in a zip-top bag for up to two months; thaw a few at a time as needed.

Substitutions

Canned tuna packed in water can replace the chicken if that is what you have open.

Foods to avoid

Skip this recipe if your cat has a known sensitivity to chicken, corn, or eggs.

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.