Halloween is coming up, and there’s no reason for your furry friends to miss out on the festivities! Instead of store-bought treats full of additives, opt for homemade recipes that are tasty and pet-friendly. Here are a few simple, safe Halloween-inspired treats for dogs and cats to brighten their day!
Pumpkin & Peanut Butter Dog Biscuits
Pumpkin is not only high in fiber but also excellent for dogs' digestion. Just be sure to use peanut butter without added sugar or xylitol, as it can be toxic for pets.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pumpkin purée (unsweetened)
- 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter
- 1 cup oat flour or brown rice flour
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Mix all the ingredients in a bowl until you get a dough.
- Roll out the dough and cut into shapes (like pumpkins or bones to keep with the theme).
- Place the biscuits on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until golden.
- Let cool before giving them to your dog.
Tuna Treats for Cats
Cats love fish, and canned tuna is perfect for creating a simple, tasty treat.
Ingredients
- 1 can of tuna in water (no oil or salt)
- 1 egg
- 1 cup rice flour or oat flour
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Drain the tuna and mix it with the egg and flour until a soft dough forms.
- Roll out the dough and cut into small fish or pumpkin shapes.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Once cooled, these crunchy treats are perfect for your cat.
Pumpkin Gelatin Cubes for Dogs
Perfect for dogs who like softer textures, these little gelatin cubes are refreshing and easy to make.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pumpkin purée
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (avoid broths containing onion or garlic)
- 2 tablespoons unflavored gelatin powder
Instructions
- Heat the broth without bringing it to a boil.
- Add the gelatin and stir until fully dissolved.
- Add the pumpkin purée and mix well.
- Pour the mixture into small molds (pumpkin shapes, if possible) and refrigerate until the cubes are firm.
- Unmold and serve as a soft treat for your dog!
Chicken & Cheese Bites for Cats
This recipe combines two popular ingredients for cats: chicken and cheese. Use plain chicken and a hard cheese, such as parmesan, to delight your feline companion.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cooked, shredded chicken
- 2 tablespoons grated parmesan
- 1/4 cup coconut flour (or chickpea flour)
- 1 egg
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Mix all the ingredients until a thick dough forms.
- Shape into small balls or biscuits.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for about 10 minutes, until lightly golden.
- Let cool before giving to your cat.
Pumpkin & Yogurt Parfaits for Dogs & Cats
Simple and no-bake, this recipe is an easy-to-digest snack, perfect for Halloween.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup pumpkin purée
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt with no sugar or sweeteners
Instructions
- Mix the pumpkin and yogurt in a small bowl.
- Pour into small silicone molds and freeze for a few hours.
- Unmold and serve as a refreshing treat!
Halloween Safety Tips
-
Avoid Dangerous Ingredients
Chocolate, xylitol (found in some peanut butters), garlic, onions, and macadamia nuts are toxic to pets. Be sure to use only pet-friendly ingredients.
-
Watch Portion Sizes
To avoid digestive issues, give these treats in small amounts and moderate the portions.
-
Beware of Decorations
Avoid glitter or artificial dyes as decorations. Stick to edible, natural, pet-safe decor.
With these Halloween recipes, your dog or cat can safely join in the fun. Bon appétit to your furry friends, and Happy Halloween! 🐾 🎃
