Omega-3 rich treats that support healthy skin, coat, and brain function for your feline friend
Important: Always use fully cooked salmon. Remove all bones and skin. Never use raw fish. For more on safe protein sources for cats, see our Essential Ingredients Guide.
Cook fresh salmon thoroughly (bake, poach, or steam) until it flakes easily. Ensure internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Remove all skin, bones, and any dark parts.
Flake the salmon into small pieces. Allow to cool completely before using. You can also use canned salmon (water-packed, not oil-packed), but ensure it's fully drained and bones are removed.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Gather all ingredients and ensure salmon is at room temperature.
Brown rice flour is used here as it's more digestible for cats than wheat flour, though some cats tolerate wheat well. The choice depends on your cat's individual needs.
In a medium bowl, combine the flaked salmon, egg, and olive oil. Mix until well combined. The mixture should be slightly wet.
Gradually add the brown rice flour, mixing until a soft dough forms. Add water one tablespoon at a time if the dough is too dry. The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable.
Roll dough into small balls (about 1/2 inch) or use a small cookie cutter. Place on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1/2 inch between each.
For cats, smaller treats are better as they have smaller mouths. You can flatten them slightly with your thumb or leave them as balls. The size should allow your cat to eat them in one or two bites.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until cookies are firm and slightly golden. Since cats prefer softer textures than dogs, these should be firm but not hard.
The cookies should break easily but not crumble. They should be dry to the touch but still have some give. For more on baking for cats, see our Baking Techniques guide.
Remove from oven and allow cookies to cool completely on the baking sheet before storing. This ensures they reach their final texture.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Due to the fish content, refrigeration is essential. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. Learn more about proper storage methods.
Salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are particularly important for cats. These fatty acids support healthy skin, shiny coats, and cognitive function. Learn more about nutritional benefits for cats.
For softer cookies (preferred by most cats), reduce baking time by 3-5 minutes. For slightly crunchier cookies, bake 3-5 minutes longer. Most cats prefer softer textures.
You can bake, poach, or steam the salmon. Baking at 400°F for 12-15 minutes works well. Ensure it's fully cooked and cooled before using. Remove all bones carefully - even small bones can be dangerous.
If your cat tolerates wheat, you can use whole wheat flour instead of brown rice flour. For grain-free option, use coconut flour (use 1/3 cup for every 1/2 cup rice flour) and adjust liquid. See our ingredients guide for more substitutions.
Limit to 2-3 cookies per day for an average-sized cat. While salmon is healthy, too much fish can lead to nutritional imbalances. Rotate with other treat types for variety.