Tag: pet treats

Nothing says “I love you” like a tasty homemade pet treat. Plus, it’s a fun and rewarding way to spoil your pets, while ensuring you know exactly what goes into their snacks. Cats, dogs, birds, rodents, and reptiles, we’ve got the whole crew covered! And not just with some tasty recipes, but with pet insurance too.

Let’s whip up some paw-licking goodness.

Treats for Dogs: Peanut Butter Banana Bites

Looking for healthy treats for dogs? These frozen peanut butter banana bites are a hit with pups and super easy to make.

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana
• ¼ cup of natural peanut butter (unsalted, no xylitol!)
• 1 tablespoon of coconut oil

Instructions:

1. Mash the banana in a bowl until smooth.
2. Mix in the peanut butter and coconut oil until well combined.
3. Spoon small dollops of the mixture onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about an hour until the treats are firm.
5. Once frozen, transfer the treats to an airtight container and store them in the fridge.

RELATED: HOW TO MAKE LIP-SMACKING HOMEMADE DOG BISCUITS

Treats for Cats: Tuna and Catnip Crackers

These homemade cat treats are full of flavour and fun.

Ingredients:

• 1 can of tuna in water (drained)
• 1 egg
• 1 tablespoon of dried catnip
• ½ cup of wholewheat flour

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 180° C and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a bowl, combine the drained tuna, egg, and dried catnip.
3. Gradually add the wholewheat flour and mix until a dough forms.
4. Roll the dough out on a floured surface.
5. Use cookie cutters to cut out shapes, or simply slice into small squares or rectangles.
6. Place the treats on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
7. Allow the treats to cool completely before serving.

Treats for Rodents: Veggie Delights

Rodents love variety, and these chewy veggie balls are the perfect little snack. Try out these treats for your hamster, rat, or guinea pig.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup of finely chopped mixed veg (carrots, broccoli, bell peppers)
• ¼ cup of rolled oats
• 2 tablespoons of honey
• 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until well combined.
2. Roll the mixture into small balls, about the size of a marble.
3. Place the balls on a plate and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
4. Once firm, offer the treats to your rodent friend. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator.

Treats for Birds: Nutty Bars

Birds need stimulation and tasty bites! These homemade bird treats combine grains, fruit, and nuts into an energy-packed snack.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup of chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, peanuts – unsalted)
• ¼ cup of cooked quinoa
• ¼ cup of mashed banana
• 1 tablespoon of raw honey

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 180° C and line a dish with parchment paper.
2. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
3. Press into the baking dish and flatten.
4. Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden.
5. Cool thoroughly before slicing into bite-sized bars. Store in an airtight container.

Treats for Reptiles: Veggie and Fruit Medley

Yes, even reptiles can get in on the snack action! These treats for reptiles are simple, safe, and packed with variety.

Ingredients:

• Reptile-safe vegetables (carrots, leafy greens, bell peppers)
• Reptile-safe fruits (berries, apples, melons)
• Calcium powder (optional – check with your vet)

Instructions:

1. Wash and finely chop the fruit and veg.
2. Mix into a colourful medley.
3. Lightly dust with calcium powder if needed.
4. Serve as a snack and remove leftovers after a few hours.

Treat Your Pets with Pet Insurance

These homemade pet treats are a safe and simple way to keep tails wagging and feathers fluttering. Another safe and simple way to care for them? Pet insurance from dotsure.co.za!  We offer cover for cats, dogs, and exotic pets such as bunnies, birds, and reptiles. Get a quote today and treat them to the ultimate protection.