The festive season is just around the corner, so it’s the perfect time for pet owners to explore some healthy pet treat recipes for Christmas. The Yuletide holiday is a celebration for all the family – humans and animals – so why not include your furry friends in the festivities?
For those seeking a wholesome twist, these healthy pet treat recipes this Christmas offer an enjoyable way to spoil your pets while prioritising their health. Made with pet-friendly ingredients, these treats are perfect for dogs, cats, and even small pets like rabbits and guinea pigs.
Why make homemade treats for pets?
We all love a treat, especially at Christmas. However, many treats that we favour as humans are simply not suitable for our pets, due to their ingredients. Chocolate for example is a treat that is sure to be in ample supply in every home over the festive season. But did you know chocolate is extremely toxic for dogs? This is because it contains theobromine, which is similar to caffeine and can over-stimulate their muscles including the heart.
So, while chocolate and sweets are certainly off the cards for your beloved pets, you can still create some treats that will make them feel loved. The beauty of homemade treats is that they offer peace of mind, as you control exactly what goes into each recipe. Many store-bought treats can contain additives, fillers, and artificial ingredients. By making treats at home, pet owners can focus on ingredients that are not only tasty but also provide nutritional value. Whether you’re baking for dogs, cats, or small animals, these treats will bring a bit of festive cheer without compromising health.
Our top three healthy pet treat recipes for Christmas!
1. Peanut butter and pumpkin dog biscuits
Using festive flavours of pumpkin and peanut butter, these crunchy biscuits make a satisfying snack for dogs. Pumpkin is rich in fibre, which aids digestion, while peanut butter adds a protein-packed taste.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (unsweetened)
- 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter (unsalted, no added sugar)
- 1 egg
- 2 ½ cups whole wheat flour (or oat flour for gluten-sensitive dogs)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
2. In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin puree, peanut butter, and egg until smooth.
3. Gradually add the flour, mixing until a dough forms. Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into shapes.
4. Place treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes until firm and golden.
2. Tuna and catnip crunchies
These treats combine the irresistible scent of tuna with a hint of catnip, making them an instant hit for most cats. Tuna provides protein and omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for skin and coat health.
Ingredients:
- 1 can tuna in water (drained)
- 1 cup oat flour
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon dried catnip
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
2. In a bowl, mix tuna, oat flour, egg, and catnip until a dough forms.
3. Roll the dough into small balls, place on a baking sheet, and flatten slightly.
4. Bake for 10-12 minutes until firm. Cool completely before serving.
3. Carrot and oat nibbles
Rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters will love these simple, crunchy bites that use basic ingredients often found in their diets.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup oats
- 1 small carrot (finely grated)
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F).
2. Mix oats, grated carrot, and water until combined.
3. Roll into tiny balls or press into shapes, then place on a lined baking sheet.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned and firm. Cool thoroughly before serving.
Important considerations for homemade pet treats
While it’s enjoyable to prepare festive treats for our pets, it’s essential to prioritise their health and safety. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Avoid harmful ingredients: Ingredients like chocolate, onions, garlic, and raisins are toxic to pets and should never be included in their treats. Always double-check ingredient safety before offering anything new.
- Moderation is key: Even healthy treats can cause digestive upset if given in excess. Treats should be an occasional addition to a balanced diet, not a replacement for regular meals.
- Storage tips: Homemade treats generally lack preservatives, so they should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Use within a week or freeze them for longer storage.
Add a healthy boost with VETIQ Healthy Treats
Christmas can be a busy time for everyone, so finding time to make homemade treats for your pet may be a challenge. For pet owners who may be short on time or looking for variety, we’re here to help with our range of Healthy Treats. These tasty treats are specifically formulated to support your pet’s well-being, without any additives, fillers or artificial ingredients. Made with high-quality, natural ingredients, VETIQ Healthy Treats are designed to provide more than just taste—they offer health benefits like improved digestion, joint support, and dental care.
Whether your dog loves chewy training treats, your cat enjoys crunchy dental treats, or your rabbit or guinea pig needs a nutritional boost for the winter, we have the perfect treat to fit their needs. With VETIQ, you can feel confident that you’re offering your pets a safe, nutritious snack that they’ll love and that complements their overall health.
Make your pet feel extra loved with our healthy pet treats recipes for Christmas
This Christmas, these healthy pet treat recipes make it easy to share the joy of the season with all your furry companions. Whether you’re preparing treats at home or opting for our trusted Healthy Treats range, you can spoil your pets while supporting their health. Creating treats at home is not just about snacks; it’s a way to bond, create lasting memories, and make pets feel loved and included in the holiday celebrations.
