Cat

Tuna & Sardine Pate

General

Ingredients

  • 1 can (5 oz) chunk light tuna in water, drained
  • 1 can (3.75 oz) sardines in water, drained and deboned
  • 2 tablespoons cooked chicken liver, finely minced
  • 1 tablespoon sunflower oil
  • 1 tablespoon cooked white rice
  • 2 tablespoons water or low-sodium chicken broth

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Drain tuna and sardines thoroughly; remove any visible bones from sardines.
  2. Steam or boil chicken liver until fully cooked through with no pink center, approximately 8-10 minutes, then finely mince.
  3. Cook white rice according to package directions; allow to cool.
  4. Combine tuna, sardines, chicken liver, rice, and water or broth in a bowl.
  5. Use a fork or food processor to blend ingredients into a smooth pate consistency.
  6. Stir in sunflower oil until evenly distributed.
  7. Add the complete supplement mixture (see supplements section) and mix thoroughly.
  8. Portion into daily servings and refrigerate or freeze as needed.

💊 Required Supplements

Per batch (approximately 3 servings for a 10 lb cat): 1/4 teaspoon bone meal powder (provides ~1000mg calcium), 200 IU vitamin E (as d-alpha tocopherol), 1000mcg taurine powder, 1/8 teaspoon iodized salt (provides iodine), 10mg zinc (as zinc gluconate), and a complete B-complex vitamin at 1/4 of the human adult dose. Mix all supplements thoroughly into the final pate before serving. Consult your veterinarian to adjust dosages based on your cat's specific needs.

Nutritional Analysis

3.5 oz (100g, for 10 lb cat)
Calories180 kcal
Protein22g (52% DM)
Fat8g (19% DM)
Carbohydrates4g (9% DM)
Fiber0.5g (1% DM)
Moisture62%
Calcium1.1% DM
Phosphorus0.85% DM
Ca:P Ratio1.3:1
DM = Dry Matter basis. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient sourcing and preparation methods.
This recipe provides high-quality animal-based protein at 52% DM with an appropriate calcium-to-phosphorus ratio of 1.3:1 for adult cats. The tuna and sardines supply omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) supporting skin, coat, and joint health. Chicken liver contributes bioavailable vitamin A, iron, and B-vitamins. Added taurine is essential for feline cardiac and retinal health. The moderate fat content (19% DM) supports energy needs without excessive caloric density. Moisture content at 62% supports hydration in cats with low thirst drive. This recipe is designed to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles for adult cat maintenance when supplemented as directed.

🧊 Safety & Storage

Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator, never at room temperature. Always serve at room temperature or slightly warmed. Discard any uneaten food after 30 minutes. Wash hands and all surfaces thoroughly after handling raw liver. This recipe is formulated for intermittent or supplemental feeding; consult your veterinarian before using as a sole diet.

⚠️ Recipe Drift Warning

Do not substitute tuna with albacore (higher mercury content) or sardines packed in oil, salt, or sauces (excess sodium and fat). Do not replace chicken liver with other organs without adjusting vitamin A and mineral levels. Do not omit or alter supplement dosages—taurine deficiency can cause blindness and heart failure in cats. Do not add onions, garlic, grapes, or any ingredients toxic to cats. Substituting sunflower oil with other fats alters the fatty acid profile.

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

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