Homemade treats are one of the easiest ways to control exactly what goes into your pet’s snacks, and they usually cost a fraction of what you’d pay for the commercial version. Below are three tested recipes, one each for horses, cats, and dogs, all built from simple, human-grade ingredients you probably already have in the kitchen.
Horses Love Homemade Treats
Carrots, apples, and oats cover most of what a horse already loves, and a scoop of ground flax adds omega-3s that also support coat condition.
Homemade Flax Horse Treats
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Mix all ingredients together; the batter should be sticky but hold its shape. Add water a little at a time if it’s too dry, or more oats if it’s too loose. Grease two cookie sheets, shape the mixture into balls about 2 inches wide, and space them close together since they won’t expand while baking. Bake for about 20 minutes, then let the treats cool completely on a rack before feeding.
A note on sugar: this recipe uses far less molasses than most versions you’ll find online, and for good reason. If your horse has a metabolic condition like Cushing’s (PPID) or insulin resistance, even small amounts of sugar and starch can be risky and are linked to laminitis. Skip the molasses for these horses, or check with your vet before feeding any treat with added sugar.
Once the treats have cooled and your horse has had their fill, that’s a good time to work in some grooming. Loose flax seed dust and shedding hair go hand in hand, and the EquiGroomer for horses makes quick work of both without irritating the skin.
Your Cat Will Purr for Homemade Treats
Sardines are genuinely good for cats. They’re high in protein and rich in omega-3s, along with minerals like calcium, copper, and iron. Look for sardines packed in water with no added salt.
No-Bake Sardine Treats
Combine all ingredients and mix well. Shape into small balls, or spoon directly into a dish to serve. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze for longer.
DIY Treats for Your Dog
If your dog likes gummy treats, this one comes together with two ingredients and no baking required.
Chicken Gummy Paws
Bring the stock to a boil, then remove from heat and let it cool for about 3 minutes. Whisk in the gelatin until no clumps remain, then pour into silicone molds or ice cube trays. Refrigerate for several hours until fully set. For a faster set, freeze for about 90 minutes, but let the treats thaw before offering them to your dog so you’re not handing over something hard enough to damage their teeth. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or freeze for a couple of months.
