Cat owners know the struggle of keeping feline friends hydrated during adventures, especially in warm weather. Commercial lickable cat treats like Inaba Churus are popular for their high moisture content and appeal, but they come with drawbacks: no easy way to reseal them after opening and reliance on single-use plastic packaging. These issues lead to waste and mess on the go. That’s where a homemade Churu cat treats recipe shines, offering a resealable, eco-friendly alternative that’s simple to make and just as tasty.
For cat owners exploring with their pets, staying hydrated is crucial. Cats often ignore portable water bowls, making high-water-content treats essential. This DIY version solves those problems while providing a pureed treat your cat will love. Check out our guide on the best food for maine coon kitten for more nutrition tips tailored to growing cats.
Lickable Cat Treat Recipe – the supplies needed
Why Make Homemade Lickable Cat Treats?
Store-bought options like cat gogurts or puree tubes are convenient but impractical for partial servings. Once opened, the contents spoil quickly without proper storage, and the plastic contributes to environmental waste. A homemade approach uses reusable squeeze bottles, allowing you to portion treats for hikes, car trips, or daily playtime.
Veterinarians emphasize hydration for cats, as dehydration can lead to urinary issues and kidney strain—common in felines. According to the American Association of Feline Practitioners, cats need about 3-4 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight daily, often best delivered through wet food or treats. This recipe delivers that moisture in a palatable form, mimicking the texture of commercial Churu treats.
From personal experience adventuring with multiple cats, these treats have been a game-changer. They keep my cats engaged and hydrated without the hassle, and the simple ingredients ensure safety.
black cat looking at camera, outside on harness and leash
Ingredients and Supplies for Homemade Churu Cat Treats
This recipe yields about 4 ounces of puree, perfect for a reusable container. Scale it up or down as needed—use a 1:1 ratio of protein to water (1 ounce protein per tablespoon water).
Ingredients:
- 4 oz. boneless chicken (or turkey, fish, or another cat-safe protein)
- 4 tablespoons water (for pureeing)
Supplies:
- Food scale for precise measurements
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring spoons
- Food processor or blender (like a Ninja)
- 4 oz. plastic squeeze bottle with cap (resealable and reusable)
- Optional: Funnel for easy pouring; popsicle tube molds for freezing summer treats
Important Note: This is a treat only, not a complete meal. Consult your vet for balanced nutrition, especially for kittens or cats with health conditions. Always use fresh, human-grade ingredients free of seasonings, onions, garlic, or additives toxic to cats.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep time: 8-10 minutes. No advanced cooking skills required.
Measure the protein: Weigh out 4 oz. of raw chicken (or alternative) using a food scale for accuracy.
Boil the chicken: Place in a pot with enough water to cover. Bring to a boil and cook 5-6 minutes until fully cooked (no pink inside). Drain excess water.
cat enjoying homemade churu lickable cat treat
Chop for processing: Cut the cooked chicken into small pieces to ease blending.
Puree: Transfer to food processor, add 4 tablespoons water, and blend until smooth—no chunks remain. Adjust water slightly for desired paste-like consistency.
Fill the container: Pour into a squeeze bottle using a funnel if available. Snip the tip slightly larger for easy dispensing.
Store and serve: Refrigerate up to 3-5 days or freeze portions. Squeeze out for your cat to lick directly—messy at first, but they adapt quickly.
For variety, experiment with safe proteins like plain tuna in water, but introduce new flavors gradually to avoid tummy upset.
woman holding cat outside and looking at camera
Tips for Success and Storage
These homemade Churu-style treats stay fresh longer in a sealed bottle compared to open tubes. They’re ideal for outdoor adventures, providing hydration without bulky bowls. If your cat hesitates, warm slightly to room temperature.
Watch for overfeeding—treats should be no more than 10% of daily calories. Pair with a high-quality wet food diet for optimal health.
Conclusion
Homemade Churu cat treats offer a practical, sustainable way to keep your feline hydrated and happy on the go. With minimal ingredients and effort, you avoid waste while delivering a treat rivals store-bought options. Always prioritize your cat’s health by sourcing quality proteins and vet-checking recipes.
Ready to try? Whip up a batch today and share your cat’s reaction. For more cat care ideas, explore our adventure guides and nutrition articles.
References
- American Association of Feline Practitioners: Feline Nutrition Guidelines
- ASPCA: Toxic Foods for Cats (avoid onions, garlic, etc.)
- Personal testing with certified cat trainer experience
