Best cat food cookbooks and treat recipe guides to buy

Cats are generally considered to be more finicky about their food than dogs. After all, as predators, they did have a lot of variety in their natural habitat.

As we saw in our article on the best cat treats, one way to diversify your feline’s daily diet is by getting some cat treats as snacks.

In addition to these commercial products and human food leftovers, there are quite a few homemade treats and food that you can make for your kitty. And if you have the expertise, you can even move to making everyday food right at home and save some money.

In this article, we look at some of the best cat food cookbooks and homemade treat guides available in the market. These cookbooks and recipe guides would help you prepare some excellent delectable, healthy food and snacks for your feline(s) and add some variety to your pet’s meals. We will also list some excellent additional resources that you can consult. So read on!

Do not forget to check out our article on the best cat training books if you are looking for some additional information on cat’s food and health.

Best cat food cookbooks and treat guides list

Some of the best cat food cookbooks and treat guides for homemade cat food and snack are listed below:
PictureProductEditions

Purr-fect Recipes for a Healthy CatKindle
Paperback

Cooking For Cats: The Healthy, Happy Way to Feed Your CatKindle
Hardcover

Cooking for Two - Your Cat & You!Kindle
Hardcover
Feline NutritionKindle
Paperback
Cat Food Recipes For Cats With Health ProblemsKindle
Paperback
Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs & CatsKindle
Paperback
Feline Fine!: Homemade Cat Food & Treat RecipesKindle
Paperback
Natural Nutrition for Dogs and Cats: The Ultimate DietKindle
Paperback
Spiral-bound
Dinner PAWsibleKindle
Paperback
How to Make Homemade Cat FoodKindle

Homemade cat food and treats

Before we look at the best cat food cookbooks and treat guides, let us briefly discuss the major factors to keep in mind before starting on homemade cat food.

It is imperative to understand that cats need a wide range of nutrition for a healthy life. A cat’s diet is different because they are obligate carnivores, meant to consume protein from meat, not plants

In general, a balanced cat diet must include:

  • Proteins, primarily from meat or fish.
  • Taurine, Arginine, and other Amino Acids.
  • Some Omega-3 and other Fatty Acids.
  • Vitamins
  • Minerals.
  • Hydration from water or alternative sources (wet food).

Small amounts of carbs are also fine, but they should not be the primary source as they can make the pet overweight.

Generally, making homemade food or using a raw diet that would cover all these nutrient requirements can be a challenge. Hence, we recommend that you use homemade cat food only for diversity or if you have some limitations such as non-availability of commercial food, or have a good grasp on the ingredients and cat nutrition.

For some general information and a couple of excellent homemade recipes, check out the following PetMD article.

Which are the best cat food cookbooks and treat guides?

Purr-fect Recipes for a Healthy CatBest cat food cookbook - Purr-fect Recipes for a Healthy Cat 101 Natural Cat Food & Treat Recipes to Make Your Cat Happy

Editions:

  • Kindle
  • Paperback

Year of Publication: First Edition, April 2011.
Features:

  • This popular homemade cat food and treat guide is authored by Lisa Shiroff and published by Atlantic Publishing Group Inc.
  • In 280 detailed pages, the book covers 101 lip-smacking cat food and meal recipes, many of which use only a handful of ingredients and are very easy to prepare.
  • In addition to the recipes, the book has some excellent information on how to pick the best commercial food products and manage mealtime behavior issues with pets.
  • The book also contains some useful information on how to handle diets for special feline health issues, along with some recipes for health supplements.
  • Our pick for the best cat food cookbook and homemade cat food guide.

Cooking For Cats: The Healthy, Happy Way to Feed Your CatCooking For Cats: The Healthy, Happy Way to Feed Your Cat

Editions:

  • Kindle
  • Hardcover

Year of Publication: First Edition, February 2020.
Features:

  • This latest, beginner cat food cookbook is authored by Debora Robertson – renowned pet enthusiast, food writer, and journalist and published by Pavilion Press, England.
  • In 100 odd pages, the book offers 20 simple, inexpensive dinners and treats, all made using readily available ingredients.
  • The cookbook also includes useful advice on nutrition for sick or recovering cats, as well as some general tips on training cats.
  • The book also offers simple craft projects as well, including a fishing-pole toy, scratching post, indoor kitty garden, catnip mouse, cardboard cat playhouse, and cat pillow.

Cooking for Two – Your Cat & You!Cooking for Two--Your Cat & You!: Delicious Recipes for You and Your Favorite Feline

Editions:

  • Kindle
  • Hardcover

Year of Publication: First Edition, October 2015.
Features:

  • This unique, “two-species” cookbook is authored by Brandon Schultz with attribution to his seasoned food-taster cat Lucy. The book is published by Skyhorse Publishers.
  • In over 150 pages, the author adapted versions of everyday recipes for people food to fit both humans and cats. Each recipe has easy-to-follow instructions and ingredient lists for both humans and felines
  • The author also covers useful information about ingredients that are and aren’t safe for felines and suggests additional resources for making day-to-day cat food.
  • The book presents all the material in an illustration-rich, somewhat humorous style, making it an entertaining and informative read.

Feline NutritionFeline Nutrition: Nutrition for the Optimum Health and Longevity of your Cat

Editions:

  • Kindle
  • Paperback

Year of Publication: First Edition, July 2011.
Features:

  • This book on cat nutrition is authored by Lynn Curtis, a professionally-trained veterinary technician and founder of the Feline Nutrition Awareness Effort and published by the CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform.
  • Not precisely a cat food cookbook, this book primarily focuses on understanding the cat’s food requirements and helps in understanding the science behind it.
  • The book provides useful tips on how to interpret commercial food labels and also helps in picking the right commercial or homemade raw food for felines.
  • The guide also offers two beginner raw-food recipes for cats to get started.

Cat Food Recipes For Cats With Health ProblemsCat Food Recipes For Cats With Health Problems

Editions:

  • Kindle
  • Paperback

Year of Publication: First Edition, November 2015.
Features:

  • This popular cat recovery and health food guide is authored by Rupert C. Robertson and published under the CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform.
  • In 75 odd pages, the book presents over 50 easy-to-follow recipes for making healthy pet food for Kidney, Heart, and other typical health ailments.
  • The book is especially useful for pet owners who have obese, aging, or unhealthy pets. All the recipes are free from added preservatives, dyes, flavor enhancers, or other unwanted chemicals.
  • The information is presented in an easy-to-read, humorous, anecdotal style to make it an entertaining read.

Dr. Pitcairn’s Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs & CatsDr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs & Cats (4th Edition)

Editions:

  • Kindle
  • Paperback

Year of Publication: Fourth Edition, March 2017.
Features:

  • This traditional masterpiece is authored by Richard H. Pitcairn and Susan Hubble Pitcairn. Dr. Pitcairn was the founder of Animal Natural Health Center in Oregon and a pioneer in utilizing holistic methods and homeopathy in treating animals.
  • This book has been the go-to resource for health-conscious animal lovers who believe in holistic care and nutrition for over 30 years.
  • In 500 detailed pages, the book is tailored towards providing a holistic homemade diet to cats and dogs without using any commercial products.
  • The fourth edition has been updated with the latest information in natural pet health, including groundbreaking research on the benefits of vegan diets for pets and making nutritionally complete food for pets.
  • The book also discusses behavior issues, general nutrition, and a humane approach to caring for pets.

Feline Fine!: Homemade Cat Food & Treat RecipesFeline Fine!: Homemade Cat Food & Treat Recipes - A Cool for Cats Cookbook

Editions:

  • Kindle
  • Paperback

Year of Publication: First Edition, January 2019.
Features:

  • This “Cool for Cat Cookbook” is authored by Daniel Humphreys and published under the CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform.
  • In 90 odd pages, the book focuses on creating balanced, nutritious meals, treats, and snacks for cats of all ages.
  • Most recipes are easy to make and perfect for amateurs. However, there is minimal information on nutrition and dietary breakdowns.
  • All the information is presented in an easy-to-follow conversation style, with vibrant illustrations and photographs.

Natural Nutrition for Dogs and Cats: The Ultimate DietNatural Nutrition for Dogs and Cats: The Ultimate Diet

Editions:

  • Kindle
  • Paperback
  • Spiral-bound

Year of Publication: First Edition, October 1999.
Features:

  • This pet food primer is one of the most popular holistic food guides for dogs and cats and authored by Kymythy Schultze, a certified Animal Health Instructor and Clinical Nutritionist and editor of the “Holistic Dog and Cat Newsletter.”
  • In 160 detailed pages, this pet food cookbook covers over 70 easy-to-follow recipes for cooked meals, treats, and a raw food diet. Suitable for dogs and cats of all ages and species.
  • Each recipe is presented with detailed instructions, nutritional information, cooking tips, and even some amusing anecdotes.
  • Because of the 1999 publication, some of the information about commercial pet foods may be outdated.

Dinner PAWsibleDinner PAWsible: A Cookbook of Nutritious, Homemade Meals for Cats and Dogs

Editions:

  • Kindle
  • Paperback

Year of Publication: First Edition, May 2015.
Features:

  • This pet recipe cookbook is authored by Susan Thixton, founder of the popular TruthaboutPetFood.com website, and Dr. Cathy Alinovi, a famous pet veterinarian.
  • In over 200 pages, the book covers over fifty cat and dog food recipes, including some exotic ones especially suitable for pets on limited ingredient diets.
  • All recipes are based on the nutrition requirements recommended by the National Research Council and AAFCO.
  • Each recipe is supplemented with accurate nutritional information and a portion size calculator. However, a handful of recipes with many ingredients may be a little difficult to follow and make.

How to Make Homemade Cat FoodHow to Make Homemade Cat Food: Easy Recipes and Advice on Feeding Your Cat a Natural Diet

Editions:

  • Kindle

Year of Publication: First Edition, January 2013.
Features:

  • This short-and-sweet cat homemade food cookbook is authored by F.W. Isner and published by Well Read Gnome Publishers.
  • In 50 short pages, the book covers simple recipes that can provide the cat nutrition for all stages of life – kitten to senior.
  • All the recipes are based on the diets that feline ancestors ate and accompanied by a portion calculator to make food for a day or the whole month. The book also has some delectable recipes for cat treats.
  • The book also covers the basics of feeding cats a homemade meat and vegetable, grain-free diet to handle common health ailments such as UTI and diabetes.

Additional Resources for homemade cat food

What Cats Should Eat: How to Feed Your Cat for Optimal Health

In addition to the best cat food cookbooks and treat guides above, there are some other excellent online resources that provide the latest information and tips and tricks on cat food and nutrition.

Some of the best resources to consult for general cat nutrition and making home-cooked cat food and treat are listed below. We also recommend checking out the What Cats Should Eat by Dr. Jean Hofve.

  • CatInfo.org: Founded by the famous cat food nutritionist and vet Dr. Lisa A. Pierson, this portal offers excellent information on cat nutrition, general care, and the various medical conditions that affect the cats. The portal provides useful advice, recipes, and tips on how to make a healthy diet for cats and ensure a long, fruitful life, free of common nutrition-related ailments.
  • PetDiets.com: The internet portal of the world’s largest independent Veterinary Nutrition Service. Founded in 1989 by Dr. Rebecca L Remillard as an independent consulting service for professionals and pet owners seeking nutritional advice. The portal also provides teleconsulting services in veterinary nutrition directly to owners for their pets and veterinarians for their patients, through five certified nutritionists.
  • AAFCO.org: The official website of The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) – voluntary membership association of local, state, and federal agencies to regulate the sale and distribution of animal feeds and animal drug remedies. Also offers the latest news and information around cat food and nutrition.

If you are only looking for some additional homemade cat treat recipe suggestions, then check out our favorite resources below:

  • AllRecipes Pet Treats:The AllRecipes portal is one of the most popular recipe sharing websites in the world. It has a full section dedicated to healthy and sumptuous pet recipes for cats, dogs, and other pets. Do not forget to sign up for the latest updates.
  • Chewy DIY Pet Recipes:The pet parenting blog section of the popular US pet product retailer also has an excellent collection of cat treat recipes. The instructions are detailed enough and easy to follow.

Also, check out the following video on some homemade cat food recipes to get you started:

How to pick the best cat food cookbooks and cat treat recipe books?

Picking the best cat food cookbooks or guides is not much different from picking up any other cooking or recipe book. The best homemade cat food guide or treat recipe book is the one that fulfills most of your requirements, is filled with easy-to-follow and easy-to-make recipes, and provide as much nutritional information as possible.

Just like any other pet training materials, no single book may be sufficient. You may need a combination of resources- both online and offline to try out some delectable homemade cat treats or food for your kitty.

Without going into too much detail, the major factors you should consider while picking the best cat treat guide or homemade cat food cookbook are listed below:

  • Primary Purpose and Type of Content
  • Level and format of the book
  • Popularity, reviews, and ratings
  • Publication year of the edition

Primary Purpose and Type of Content

The primary purpose of the cookbook is an important factor as it governs the type of content you should look in a book.

If you are looking for a detailed guide to establish a holistic, homemade food regimen for your cat with a combination of a raw diet and home-cooked meals, then you need a reference resource such as the Purr-fect Recipes for a Healthy Cat or The Cat Who…Cookbook (Updated) which cover these aspects along with some excellent home-cooked recipes.

On the other hand, if you are just looking for some simple recipes to diversify your pet’s daily diet, then you can check out the cat treat books such as our favorite – Feline Fine!: Homemade Cat Food & Treat Recipes by Daniel Humphreys.

Furthermore, if your feline is suffering from an ailment or has special needs, you would find the Cat Food Recipes For Cats With Health Problems as an excellent resource.

Level and format of the book

The level and format of the book is also something to check out.

If you are someone who is a master around the kitchen, then you would find advanced recipe books such as the Dinner PAWsible: A Cookbook by Susan Thixton et al. more suitable. This book has some really exotic recipes to go with some easy ones.

On the other hand, if you are looking for just the basic home cooking recipes, then you can check out the Cooking For Cats: The Healthy, Happy Way to Feed Your Cat as great beginner options.

The format of how the recipes and related information are presented in the book is also something to check out. Almost all the books that we have listed above have an easy-to-follow style filled with illustrations and a breakdown of ingredients and cooking steps to follow, along with nutrition analysis and portion calculators.

You would not have any issues with following the recipes or suggestions presented in our selection. Still, you can utilize the “Look Inside” feature on the Amazon website to get a preview of the book. You can also check for excerpts for the book in Google online bookstore to determine if the presentation style is suitable for you.

Furthermore, if you prefer digital editions, then check if the book is available in Kindle format for easy access. Kindle editions are generally cheaper, too, and also available with the Kindle Unlimited service.

Popularity, Reviews, and Ratings

The popularity of the author, publisher, and book is often a great indicator of how the book would turn out to be.

Most of the books listed above have been written by authors and edited by publishers with considerable experience in the field of pet nutrition and cooking.

But as one size does not fit all, you should look at the reviews, especially by other experts and authors in the field. Check out the reviews on Amazon and platforms such as GoodReads by other readers to determine its suitability.

Publication year of the edition

When it comes to homemade cooking, the publication year of the current edition is probably not as important as in the case of other pet training guides. After all, the essential ingredients and the cooking mediums have not changed over the years.

Still, if you want to consider something that replicates the need for fast, quick instant cooking using the latest cooking mediums such as mixers, food processors and dehydrators, you can check the publication year of the books and see that none of them are from the previous century.

Final Thoughts on the best cat food cookbooks and treat guides

Homemade cat food and treats are an excellent way to add some variety to your feline’s daily meals. Cooking meals for your beloved kitty is also a perfect way to establish a strong bond with your pet and even help you save some money. And the savings add up quite fast if you have multiple cats!

In this article, we listed the best cat food cookbooks and cat treat guides that would actually help you in preparing some delectable home-cooked snacks for your furry friend.

Authored by some of the best pet nutritionists and experts in the field, these books provide some homemade cat food recipes with detailed ingredient lists, nutritional information, and easy-to-follow instructions.

We also shared some excellent additional resources to consult for ensuring proper feeding and nutrition.

We hope that you found this article useful, and it would help you pick the best homemade cat food cookbooks or treat guides to pamper your pet(s). Do let us know your feedback by commenting below. Until next time, happy cooking!!

Image credits: Amazon.com