Thanksgiving is a time of indulgence and feasting, and there’s no reason why your pets should miss out on the fun. Creating pet-friendly Thanksgiving treats is a wonderful way to include your furry friends in the holiday celebrations. Not only are homemade treats healthier, but they also cater to your pet’s dietary needs while keeping them safe from harmful ingredients. Here’s how you can whip up some delicious and safe Thanksgiving treats for your pets.
Table of Contents
Understand Safe Ingredients
Before you start, it’s important to know which ingredients are safe for your pets. Generally, plain cooked meats like turkey (without skin or bones), certain vegetables like carrots and green beans, and fruits like apples and pumpkin are safe for most pets. Always avoid onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes, raisins, and artificial sweeteners like xylitol.
Simple Baked Turkey Treats
Ingredients:
- Lean turkey breast, cooked and chopped
- A small amount of plain cooked pumpkin or sweet potato
- A sprinkle of parsley (optional, for fresh breath)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the turkey, pumpkin/sweet potato, and parsley in a bowl.
- Form small bite-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 15 minutes or until slightly browned.
- Let them cool before serving them to your pet.
Pumpkin and Apple Bites
Ingredients:
- ½ cup pureed pumpkin (not pie filling)
- ½ an apple, finely chopped
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (or a grain-free alternative)
- A dash of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine all ingredients to form a dough.
- Roll out the dough and cut into small shapes with a cookie cutter.
- Place on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Allow them to cool before treating your pet.
Carrot and Peanut Butter Chews
Ingredients:
- 2 large carrots, grated
- 2 tablespoons natural peanut butter (xylitol-free)
- 1 cup oat flour
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix the carrots, peanut butter, and oat flour to form a sticky dough.
- Roll small amounts of dough into balls and flatten slightly.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until firm.
- Let them cool completely before serving.
Sweet Potato Jerky
Ingredients:
- 1 large sweet potato, thinly sliced
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C).
- Place sweet potato slices on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 2-3 hours, flipping halfway through, until they are dry and chewy.
- Cool them down before offering them to your pet.
Homemade Gravy
Ingredients:
- Low-sodium chicken or beef broth
- A small amount of flour or cornstarch for thickening
Instructions:
- Heat the broth in a saucepan.
- Slowly add flour or cornstarch, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Simmer until it reaches the desired thickness.
- Cool it down and drizzle it over your pet’s regular food for a festive treat.
Tips for Treat Making
- Always let treats cool down completely before serving.
- Store treats in an airtight container in the fridge.
- Introduce new treats gradually to avoid digestive upset.
- Treats should not replace your pet’s regular diet but complement it.
In Conclusion
Making your own pet-friendly Thanksgiving treats is a fun and rewarding way to include your pets in the holiday festivities. These simple, wholesome recipes ensure that your pets can enjoy Thanksgiving safely and healthily. Remember, moderation is key—these treats are just that, treats, and should be given in addition to a balanced diet. This Thanksgiving, treat your pets with the love and care they deserve