Chicken broth for cats is a simple, nourishing liquid made by simmering chicken (and optionally a few safe vegetables) in water until the flavor and gelatin are extracted. It is a wonderful way to encourage a picky eater, add moisture to a dry-food diet, or gently rehydrate a cat who is not drinking enough. Unlike many store-bought broths, this homemade version contains no onion, garlic, or excess salt, making it a safe and healthy treat for your feline friend.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900 g) bone-in chicken pieces (wings, backs, or thighs)
- 4 cups (950 ml) water, plus more as needed
- 1 small carrot, peeled and chopped (optional)
- 1 celery stalk, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Place the chicken pieces in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add the chopped carrot and celery, if using. Pour in the water—it should just cover the chicken. If it doesn’t, add a little more.
- Bring the water to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes. Do not let it boil vigorously, as this will make the broth cloudy.
- Using tongs, carefully remove the chicken pieces from the pot and set them on a plate. Let them cool until they are easy to handle, about 10 minutes.
- While the chicken cools, strain the broth through a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl or measuring cup. Discard the cooked vegetables (they have served their purpose).
- Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the bones. You can shred the meat and set it aside for your cat as a treat, or discard it. Do not give your cat the bones—they can splinter.
- Skim off any fat from the surface of the broth with a spoon, or use a fat separator. Fat can cause digestive upset in some cats.
- Let the broth cool completely to room temperature before serving or storing. For a cat, the broth should be served warm (not hot) or at room temperature.
Tips
- No onion or garlic: Never add onion, garlic, or other alliums to broth for cats. These are toxic to felines, even in small amounts.
- Salt and seasonings: Do not add salt, pepper, herbs, or any other seasonings. Cats have very different dietary needs, and plain broth is best.
- Bone-in chicken: Use bone-in pieces for a richer broth, as the bones add collagen and flavor. If you only have boneless chicken, the broth will be lighter but still acceptable.
- Skim the fat: Excess fat can cause an upset stomach or pancreatitis in cats. Always skim off the fat after the broth has cooled, or use a fat separator.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the broth as a treat on its own, in a shallow bowl. You can also pour a small amount (1–2 tablespoons) over your cat’s regular food to add moisture and flavor. For a special treat, mix a little shredded chicken meat into the broth. Always serve at room temperature or slightly warm—never hot.
Variations
Turkey broth: Substitute turkey pieces for chicken. Turkey is also safe and flavorful for cats.
Vegetable-enhanced: If your cat tolerates vegetables, you can add a small amount of pumpkin (not pie filling) or green beans to the pot. These add nutrients, but they are not essential.
Bone broth: For a more gelatinous broth, simmer the chicken bones for a longer time (2–3 hours) after removing the meat. This extracts more collagen, which is good for joint health. However, for cats, a shorter simmer is usually sufficient and less rich.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerate the broth in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the broth in ice cube trays or small freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight or warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Always stir well and test the temperature before serving to your cat—it should be lukewarm, not hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken bouillon cubes or store-bought broth? No. Most store-bought broths contain onion, garlic, and high levels of sodium, which are harmful to cats. Even “low-sodium” broths often contain onion powder. It is best to make your own.
How much broth can I give my cat? Broth should be a treat, not a meal replacement. For an average 10 lb (4.5 kg) cat, 2–4 tablespoons per day is plenty. Too much broth can fill your cat up and cause them to eat less of their balanced diet.
Can I use chicken skin? Yes, but it adds fat. If you use skin, be sure to skim off the fat after cooking. You may want to remove the skin before simmering to keep the broth leaner.
Is it okay if my cat doesn’t like the broth? Some cats are picky. Try warming it slightly to enhance the aroma, or mix a tiny bit into their food. If they still refuse, don’t force it—offer fresh water instead.
Can I add other meats? Yes, you can make broth from turkey or even lean beef, but chicken is the most easily digestible and well-tolerated. Stick to plain, cooked meats without bones or seasonings.
What if my cat has kidney disease or other health issues? Always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new food or treat, especially if your cat has a medical condition. Your vet can advise on appropriate portions and ingredients.
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