Beef and Chicken Broth Cat Food - Simple, Soothing, and Protein-Rich
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225 g) lean beef (stew meat, ground beef 90% lean, or beef heart)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth (preferably homemade, onion- and garlic-free)
- 1 tsp plain gelatin powder (optional, for a gentle gel texture and extra hydration)
- 1 tbsp chicken fat or beef tallow (optional, for flavor and calories; skip if your cat needs lower fat)
- 1 egg yolk (lightly cooked; optional for extra nutrients and richness)
- Water as needed to adjust thickness
- Vet-approved taurine supplement (as directed by your vet; helpful if feeding frequently)
- Small pinch of calcium source (e.g., eggshell powder), if using boneless meats and serving as a more complete meal
Instructions
- Prepare the broth. If using store-bought, confirm it’s unsalted or very low sodium and free of onion/garlic.
If homemade, skim fat if needed.
- Cook the beef. Poach or pan-sear the beef until just cooked through. Avoid heavy browning or spices. For ground beef, cook gently and drain excess fat if your cat is sensitive.
- Optional: Add gelatin. Warm 2–3 tbsp of the broth and sprinkle the gelatin over it.
Let bloom for 5 minutes, then stir to dissolve fully.
- Combine ingredients. Add the cooked beef to a bowl or blender. Pour in the chicken broth (including the dissolved gelatin if using). Add the egg yolk and optional chicken fat/tallow.
- Adjust texture. For a soft chew, hand-chop the beef and stir.
For a smooth pate, blend until creamy. Add warm water as needed for a soupier consistency.
- Add supplements. Once the mixture cools to warm (not hot), stir in taurine and a small amount of calcium if advised by your vet. Do not add supplements to very hot food.
- Portion and serve. Offer a small amount first to test acceptance.
Serve slightly warm—never hot—to boost aroma.