Cat

Tuna & Sardine Pate

General

Ingredients

  • 1 can (5oz) tuna in water, drained
  • 1 can (3.75oz) sardines in water, drained
  • 2 tablespoons cooked chicken liver, finely minced
  • 1 large egg yolk, cooked and mashed
  • 1 tablespoon cooked pumpkin puree (plain, no spices)
  • 1 teaspoon sunflower oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Drain the tuna and sardines thoroughly, then mash together in a mixing bowl with a fork until a smooth consistency forms.
  2. Hard boil an egg, remove the yolk, and mash it finely into the fish mixture.
  3. Steam or boil the chicken liver until fully cooked through, then mince it very finely and fold into the mixture.
  4. Add the cooked pumpkin puree and sunflower oil, mixing until all ingredients are evenly combined.
  5. Divide into 2-3 portions (approximately 2-3 oz each) and serve immediately or store as directed below.

💊 Required Supplements

Add per batch (entire recipe): 1/4 teaspoon taurine powder (500mg), 1/8 teaspoon iodized salt (for iodine), 1/8 teaspoon calcium carbonate powder (for bone health), and 1/4 teaspoon fish oil (for additional omega-3s). Mix thoroughly after each addition.

Nutritional Analysis

2.5 oz (70g) for average 10lb cat
Calories180 kcal
Protein22g (52% DM)
Fat8g (19% DM)
Carbohydrates2g (5% DM)
Fiber0.5g (1% DM)
Moisture70%
Calcium0.8% DM
Phosphorus0.6% DM
Ca:P Ratio1.33:1
DM = Dry Matter basis. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient sourcing and preparation methods.
This recipe is high in protein (52% DM) appropriate for obligate carnivores, with moderate fat content supporting energy needs. The tuna and sardine combination provides excellent omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA) for skin, coat, and joint health. Taurine supplementation is critical for cardiac and retinal function in cats. The calcium:phosphorus ratio of 1.33:1 falls within the recommended 1.1:1 to 2:1 range for adult cats. This recipe is intended as a complete meal when supplements are added as directed; without supplements it is nutritionally incomplete. Regular veterinary monitoring and blood work is recommended when feeding homemade diets long-term.

🧊 Safety & Storage

Store unused portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze individual portions in ice cube trays for up to 2 months. Always serve at room temperature or slightly warmed. Never microwave directly; warm by placing sealed container in warm water. Discard any food left out for more than 2 hours. Consult your veterinarian before introducing this recipe, especially if your cat has health conditions.

⚠️ Recipe Drift Warning

Do not substitute tuna with canned tuna in oil or with added seasonings, as these can be toxic to cats. Do not replace sardines with other fish without adjusting omega-3 content. Do not omit the taurine supplement, as cats require this essential amino acid and deficiency can cause serious heart and eye problems. Do not use pumpkin pie filling instead of plain pumpkin puree. Do not add onion, garlic, chives, or any allium family ingredients as they are toxic to cats.

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

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