Yum! Thanksgiving Pet Treat Recipes you have to try this year

Thanksgiving isn't just for humans to enjoy; our furry friends also deserve to partake in this festive celebration with some special treats. Homemade pet treats are not only a healthier alternative to store-bought options but can also cater to your pet's individual dietary needs. Here are three pet-friendly recipes that will indeed have tails wagging and purrs humming at your Thanksgiving gathering. If you're choosing between recipes and commercial snacks, our guide to understanding dog food types can help you compare options.

1. Pumpkin Pie Bites for Dogs

Pumpkin isn't just a classic Thanksgiving flavor; it's also a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals for dogs. These Pumpkin Pie Bites are a perfect way to let your canine join in the Thanksgiving fun.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup canned pure pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
• Two eggs
• 2.5 cups whole wheat flour (or any other dog-safe flour)
• 1/2 tsp. cinnamon (optional, make sure it's not the spice mix but pure cinnamon)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the pumpkin and eggs until smooth.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add in the flour and cinnamon, and stir to combine. The dough should be stiff but not overly dry.
4. Roll and Cut: Roll the dough out on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thick. Use a cookie cutter to cut into shapes.
5. Bake: Place the treats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until hard.
6. Cool: Let the treats cool completely before serving.

2. Turkey and Cranberry Cat Treats

Turkey and cranberries – two traditional Thanksgiving staples that can be enjoyed by your feline friends too. These treats are simple to make and delicious for cats. Before you serve too many, it can help to review cat treats and obesity and keep portions in check.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup ground turkey, cooked
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries, unsweetened and chopped
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon catnip
• 2 cups whole wheat flour (or a grain-free alternative)

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked turkey, cranberries, egg, and catnip.
3. Add Flour: Gradually add flour until a dough forms.
4. Create Small Balls: Roll the mixture into small, pea-sized balls and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. If you're making treats for a new kitten or young dog in the house, best training treats for puppies can be a helpful reference for tiny portions and bite-sized rewards.
5. Bake: Bake for about 15 minutes or until they are slightly browned.
6. Cool: Let them cool before serving to your cat.

Sweet Potato Chews for Dogs

Sweet potatoes are a great source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals for dogs. These chews are a healthier and much safer alternative to rawhide, easy to make, and loved by most dogs. For another simple chilled option, see ice cubes for dogs.

Ingredients:

• 1 large sweet potato, washed and dried

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. Slice Sweet Potato: Slice the sweet potato into long, even strips, about 1/4 to 1/3-inch thick.
3. Bake: Place the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 2.5 to 3 hours, turning halfway through, until they are dry and slightly crispy on the edges.
4. Cool: Allow the chews to cool completely before serving.

Serving and Storage

Ensure treats are cooled completely before serving. Homemade treats lack preservatives, so they have a shorter shelf life than commercial ones. Refrigerate them in an airtight container and consume them within a few days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. If you want to keep an eye on pets while you prep or step away, the WaggleCam Pro pet camera makes it easy to check in from anywhere. For more ideas on safe DIY snacks, browse DIY cat treats to keep them cool and satisfied during summer and foods to avoid as cat treats.

That's a wrap!

Thanksgiving is a time for giving, sharing, and eating! With these homemade pet treat recipes, your furry friends won't feel left out of the festivities. As always, remember to introduce any new treats into your pet's diet gradually and in moderation. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your pets! If you like monitoring treat time and mealtime habits, a pet camera can be a handy addition.

Note: Always consult with your veterinarian before introducing new ingredients into your pet's diet, especially if they have specific health issues or dietary restrictions.