Cat

Tuna & Sardine Pate

General

Ingredients

  • 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained
  • 1 can (3.75 oz) sardines in water, drained
  • 2 tablespoons cooked egg yolk
  • 1 tablespoon chicken liver, cooked and finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon sunflower oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon iodized salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried catnip (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Steam or boil the chicken liver until fully cooked, about 8-10 minutes, then finely mince.
  2. Drain both the canned tuna and sardines thoroughly to reduce excess sodium.
  3. In a mixing bowl, flake the fish apart and combine with the minced liver and egg yolk.
  4. Add sunflower oil and salt, then mash or blend to a smooth pâté consistency.
  5. Mix in catnip if using, then portion into meal-sized servings and refrigerate or freeze.

💊 Required Supplements

Add the following per batch (serves approximately 5-6 meals for an average adult cat): Taurine 250mg, Vitamin E 10 IU, B-Complex 1/4 tablet (crushed). Mix thoroughly into the pâté just before serving or divide evenly across portions.

Nutritional Analysis

3 oz (85g) per meal for 10lb cat
Calories180 kcal
Protein22g (52% DM)
Fat7g (18% DM)
Carbohydrates1g (3% DM)
Fiber0.2g (0.5% DM)
Moisture70%
Calcium0.4% DM
Phosphorus0.8% DM
Ca:P Ratio0.5:1
DM = Dry Matter basis. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient sourcing and preparation methods.
This recipe is protein-dominant and appropriate for obligate carnivores. Note the calcium-to-phosphorus ratio is intentionally lower than the ideal 1.1:1 to 1.5:1 range; a calcium supplement such as 1/8 teaspoon eggshell powder per serving should be added to correct this imbalance. Taurine supplementation is critical and non-negotiable for cats. Consult your veterinarian before feeding this as a sole diet long-term.

🧊 Safety & Storage

Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 3 days or freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator. Never leave at room temperature for more than 30 minutes. Use clean utensils each time you serve to prevent bacterial contamination.

⚠️ Recipe Drift Warning

Do not substitute tuna with raw fish due to thiaminase and parasite risks. Do not replace sardines with oil-packed varieties as excess fat can cause digestive upset. Avoid adding onions, garlic, or chives as they are toxic to cats. Any deviation from the protein sources will alter the amino acid profile and may necessitate recalculation of taurine needs.

⚕️ Always consult your veterinarian before changing your pet's diet.

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