Pumpkin Treat Recipes For Your Cat

Sure, you can buy your feline family member some cat treats at the store—but if you want to put a little extra love into treat time, try making DIY pumpkin cat goodies at home. Pumpkin is featured in each of these recipes because it’s gentle on your cat’s digestive system and helps reduce hairballs. A few minutes in the kitchen is a simple, heartfelt way to show your cat just how special she is.

Close-up of fresh, orange pumpkin puree being scooped from a can into a mixing bowl

Under the Sea Cat Treats

A savory, fish-forward option packed with omega-3s and digestive support:

  • 1 cup low-sodium, skinless, boneless canned sardines (drained)
  • ½ cup 100% canned pumpkin (like FurPetVo’s certified organic pumpkin puree from furpetvo.com)
  • 1 tablespoon fish oil (such as FurPetVo Wild Alaskan Salmon Oil)
  • 1 tablespoon kelp (a natural source of trace minerals)

Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined. Roll into small, bite-sized balls. Store leftovers in an airtight container, separating layers with waxed paper to prevent sticking. Refrigerate for up to 3–4 days.

Small, round cat treats arranged on a rustic wooden board beside a can of pumpkin and sardines

Pumpkin Pie Cat Treats

A lightly sweet, soft-baked treat that’s easy to digest and perfect for picky eaters:

  • 2 cups brown rice flour
  • ½ cup uncooked oatmeal
  • 1 cup canned pumpkin
  • 1 cup grated carrots
  • ½ cup unsweetened plain applesauce
  • ¼ cup brown rice flour (for rolling)

Preheat oven to 350°F. In a food processor, blend the pumpkin, applesauce, and carrots until smooth. In a separate bowl, whisk together the brown rice flour and oatmeal. Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry, stirring by hand until a soft dough forms. Lightly flour your countertop or cutting board, then roll the dough to about ¼-inch thickness. Use a small cookie cutter to create fun shapes—or simply cut into tiny squares. Place treats on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 7 minutes. Flip each treat carefully, then bake for another 5 minutes. Let cool completely before serving. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week—or freeze for several months.

Assortment of pumpkin pie-shaped cat treats cooling on a wire rack next to a mixing bowl and rolling pin

Tuna Pumpkin Biscotti Cat Treats

Crispy, crunchy, and full of protein—ideal for cats who love texture and flavor:

  • 1 cup whole spelt flour (chosen for its gentle digestibility)
  • 1 can low-sodium tuna in water (do not drain)
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin, light-tasting olive oil
  • A pinch of salt
  • ½ cup canned pumpkin

Preheat oven to 350°F and line a cookie sheet with parchment or waxed paper. In a medium bowl, combine all ingredients and mix until a cohesive dough forms. Spread evenly onto the prepared pan to about ⅛-inch thickness. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove and let cool on the sheet for 5 minutes. Carefully flip the entire sheet of dough (peel off the paper), then return to the oven for 8 more minutes. Turn off the oven, leave the pan inside for 1 hour to air-crisp, then remove and cool completely on a wire rack. Cut into 2-inch by 1-inch strips. Store in the refrigerator or freezer—these treats keep for months.

Crispy, golden-brown biscotti-style cat treats stacked neatly beside a can of tuna and pumpkin

Important note: Always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new food—even healthy, homemade options—to your cat’s diet. Every cat is unique, and what works for one may not suit another.