Cat

Kitten Starter Recipe

General

Ingredients

  • 850g raw chicken thigh (boneless, skinless, finely minced)
  • 100g raw chicken liver (finely minced)
  • 50g raw chicken heart (finely minced)
  • 2 whole eggs (including shells, crushed)
  • 100g steamed butternut squash (mashed)
  • 50g steamed broccoli (finely chopped)
  • 200ml bone broth (unsalted, homemade)
  • 1 tablespoon salmon oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon taurine powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon iodized salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried kelp powder

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Steam the butternut squash and broccoli until soft, then mash or puree until smooth
  2. In a large bowl, combine the minced chicken thigh, liver, and heart
  3. Crush the eggshells into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or coffee grinder
  4. Add whole eggs (including crushed shells) to the meat mixture and whisk thoroughly
  5. Fold in the mashed vegetables and bone broth until well combined
  6. Add salmon oil, taurine powder, salt, and kelp powder, mixing thoroughly
  7. Portion into ice cube trays or small containers (approximately 30g portions for young kittens)
  8. Refrigerate portions for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months
  9. Warm refrigerated portions to room temperature before serving - never microwave

💊 Required Supplements

Add the following per 1kg of prepared food: Taurine 500mg (essential for heart and eye health), Vitamin E 20 IU, B-Complex 1/4 adult dose, Zinc 5mg, Iron 5mg, and Calcium carbonate 500mg if not using eggshell powder. These supplements are CRITICAL - a homemade diet without them will cause serious deficiency diseases in growing kittens.

Nutritional Analysis

30g (for 1-2 month old kitten)
Calories52 kcal
Protein6.8g (45% DM)
Fat3.2g (28% DM)
Carbohydrates1.5g (10% DM)
Fiber0.3g (2% DM)
Moisture75%
Calcium0.8% DM
Phosphorus0.6% DM
Ca:P Ratio1.3:1
DM = Dry Matter basis. Values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient sourcing and preparation methods.
This recipe provides approximately 52 kcal per 30g serving with a high protein content of 45% on a dry matter basis, appropriate for rapid kitten growth. The fat content of 28% DM supports brain development and energy needs. The calcium to phosphorus ratio of 1.3:1 is within the optimal range for skeletal development in growing kittens. Moisture content of 75% supports hydration in young cats. Note: This recipe is formulated as a STARTER food for weaning kittens and should be gradually introduced alongside mother's milk or kitten milk replacement formula from 4 weeks of age. By 8-12 weeks, transition to a complete and balanced commercial kitten food or a fully supplemented homemade recipe designed for growth. ALWAYS consult with a veterinary nutritionist before feeding homemade diets to kittens, as improper nutrition during this critical growth period can cause permanent developmental damage.

🧊 Safety & Storage

Always use fresh, human-grade ingredients from reputable sources. Wash hands and all surfaces thoroughly before and after handling raw meat. Store prepared food in airtight containers in the refrigerator for maximum 3 days, or freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator, never at room temperature. Discard any uneaten food after 2 hours at room temperature. Clean and sanitize all feeding bowls after each meal. This recipe is designed for kittens 4-12 weeks old and should be fed 4-6 small meals daily.

⚠️ Recipe Drift Warning

Do NOT substitute taurine with other amino acids - taurine deficiency causes blindness and heart failure in cats. Do not replace chicken liver with other meats as it provides essential vitamin A and iron. Do not use onion, garlic, grapes, or raisins as these are toxic to cats. Do not add milk or dairy as most cats are lactose intolerant. Do not use dog-specific supplements as they lack critical nutrients cats require. Any substitution may create dangerous nutritional imbalances in growing kittens. Always consult your veterinarian before making any modifications.

⚕️ Always consult your veterinarian before changing your pet's diet.

♥ Save This Recipe

Save to your favorites and access it anytime.

Get Free Pet Nutrition Tips

Weekly recipes, nutrition guides, and health tips delivered to your inbox.

← Back to All Recipes Customize for My Pet

Share this recipe