Gravy for Cat Food: Homemade, Easy & Healthy Cat Gravy Recipe

Q: Can I use human gravy for cats?

Nope, don’t do that. Human gravy is usually full of salt, onions, and spices. Those things are bad for cats. One time, my friend gave her cat some leftover gravy — and the poor kitty got an upset stomach. So, better stick to cat-friendly gravy recipes. Always safe than sorry!

Q: How often should I give my cat gravy?

Gravy’s a treat, not a meal replacement. Giving it once or twice a week is fine. If you add it too often, your cat might skip their regular food. Plus, too much gravy can cause tummy troubles. Keep it occasional, keep it fun!

Q: Can kittens eat gravy?

Kittens are little, delicate creatures. They can eat gravy, but only in small amounts. Make sure the gravy is gentle, without any strong flavors or harmful ingredients. If unsure, ask your vet. My kitten once licked a bit of homemade chicken gravy — loved it but didn’t go overboard.

Q: How to store homemade gravy safely?

Homemade gravy doesn’t last forever. Keep it in an airtight container. Put it in the fridge right away. It usually stays fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can also freeze small portions for later. When you reheat, warm it gently — don’t boil. Cats like it just right, not hot!

Why Cats Go Crazy for Gravy

Ever noticed your cat licking all the gravy before touching the chunks?

Yep. That’s not a coincidence.

Cats love gravy. It’s warm. It’s rich. It smells like heaven to them.

But it’s not just about taste. Gravy helps with hydration—something many cats need more of, especially if they eat dry food. And for picky eaters? A little gravy can work like magic.

Now, let’s be honest.

Most store-bought gravies are full of stuff you can’t even pronounce. Preservatives. Fillers. Sodium. Not ideal.

So here’s the good news:
You can make gravy for cat food at home.
It’s easy. It’s safe. And your cat will love you for it.

In this post, I’ll show you:

Why gravy matters
How to make it from scratch
Safe ingredients to use
A step-by-step chicken gravy recipe
Tips for picky eaters and sensitive tummies

🐾 Why Add Gravy to Cat Food?

It started with a worried pet parent. Her cat hadn’t touched dry food in days. She tried everything. Then came the gravy.

Just a spoonful. That’s all it took. The food disappeared like magic.

Gravy isn’t just a treat. It can be a game-changer.

🍖 Nutritional Benefits of Gravy

Gravy can carry nutrients. Think vitamins, minerals, amino acids. Stuff your cat needs.

Most homemade gravies are:

Protein-rich
Low in carbs
Full of flavor
Gentle on digestion

And the best part? You control what goes in.

💧 Helps With Hydration

Cats don’t drink much water. That’s natural. In the wild, they get moisture from prey. But in your home? With dry kibble? Not so much.

Gravy adds moisture. A lot of it.

Especially helpful for:

Senior cats
Cats with kidney issues
Lazy drinkers

Hydrated cats are healthier. Period.

🐱 Picky Eaters Love It

Some cats just sniff and walk away. Frustrating, right? Gravy helps. It smells strong. Tastes even better.

Here’s why cats say yes to gravy:

Warm and aromatic
Smooth texture
Mixed easily with old food

Suddenly that boring kibble? Gone in minutes.

Gravy does more than just taste good. It brings cats back to the bowl. Safely. Simply. Lovingly.

Want to know the best part? You can make it at home. Easy. Fast. Cheap.

Let’s get to it.👇

What Is the Best Gravy for Cats?

Why Add Gravy for Cat Food – Tasty and Nutritious Boost

Milo was a picky eater. You know, the kind of cat who’d sniff his bowl, then walk away like it offended him.

That was until I added gravy.

But not just any gravy.

There’s a big difference between store-bought and homemade cat gravy. And if you’ve been wondering what’s best for your furry little diva, let’s break it down.

Store-Bought vs. Homemade Gravy

Store-bought gravies are easy. Open the pouch. Pour it in. Done.

Homemade? Takes a little time. But it’s fresh. Custom. You know exactly what’s in it.

So, which one is better?

Well… depends.

Let’s look a little closer.

What to Look for in Commercial Cat Gravies

Not all gravies are created equal. Some are packed with things your cat doesn’t need.

Here’s what to check:

✅ Named meat as the first ingredient (like chicken, salmon, turkey)
❌ No artificial flavors or preservatives
✅ Low sodium
✅ Vet-approved or AAFCO certified
❌ Avoid gravies with “meat by-products” and fillers

Always, and I mean always, check the label. If it sounds like a chemistry experiment, skip it.

Pros and Cons

Here’s the real talk.

Store-Bought Gravy

Pros:

Super convenient
Long shelf life
Many cats love the taste

Cons:

Can be expensive over time
May contain questionable ingredients
Not tailored to your cat’s specific needs

Homemade Gravy

Pros:

Fresh and natural
You control every ingredient
Great for cats with allergies or sensitive tummies

Cons:

Takes time to prepare
Needs proper storage
Might spoil faster

So, what’s the best gravy for cats?

If you’ve got the time and love experimenting in the kitchen, go homemade. Your cat’s health will thank you.
But if life’s busy and your cat needs extra hydration now? A good-quality store-bought gravy isn’t the worst idea.

Either way, the goal is simple:
Happy cat. Healthy cat. Clean bowl.

Milo would approve.

Homemade Cat Food Gravy: Is It Safe and Healthy?

Let’s be honest.
You love your cat.
Like, really love them.
So giving them something tasty—like a warm, cozy gravy—feels like love on a spoon.

But wait.
Is homemade cat food gravy even safe?

Good question.
Let’s break it down.

Good Stuff Cats Can Eat (In Gravy)

Not everything from your kitchen belongs in the bowl. But many things do.

Here’s what cats can safely enjoy in homemade gravy:

Chicken broth – plain, unsalted
Boiled meat – chicken, turkey, beef (no seasoning)
Pumpkin puree – just a little; helps digestion
Gelatin – adds texture, totally safe
Fish (boneless) – like salmon or sardines (in water, no oil)
Tuna water – from canned tuna in spring water, not oil

Sounds simple, right?
Because it is. Cats don’t need fancy.

Now, the No-Go Zone 🚫

Some stuff?
Just don’t.

❌ Onions
❌ Garlic
❌ Salt (even a bit is too much)
❌ Onion powder or garlic powder (sneaky but dangerous)
❌ Gravy thickened with flour or dairy (no-no for tummies)
❌ Human gravies (loaded with stuff cats shouldn’t touch)

Even a small bit of garlic or onion?
Could harm their red blood cells. Not worth it.

Vet-Approved Gravy Tips (Yes, Let’s Get Nerdy)

Cats are obligate carnivores.
Means they need meat. Not carbs. Not sugar. Not spices.
Just meat.

Here’s what vets usually recommend:

Use low-sodium, homemade broth as a base
Boil meats (don’t fry, don’t roast with seasonings)
Use bone broth—rich in collagen and good for joints
Keep the gravy thin and watery – easier to digest
Serve warm, not hot
Make small batches. Freeze extras for later

Still unsure?
Ask your vet before trying a new recipe. Especially if your cat has kidney issues, diabetes, or is on meds.

You’re not just cooking.
You’re caring.

And your cat?
They’ll lick the bowl clean. Every time.

How to Make Cat Food Gravy at Home

So your cat’s been ignoring her food lately. Just sniffing it. Walking away. You’ve tried everything. But nothing works.

Until now.

Gravy might be the trick. Warm. Aromatic. Moist. It’s cat magic. And yes, you can make it at home. Easy. Safe. Cheap.

Here’s how.

Tools You’ll Need

Let’s keep it simple. You don’t need a chef’s kitchen. Just a few basic things:

A small pot (to simmer the ingredients)
A blender or hand mixer (to puree it smooth)
A strainer or cheesecloth (if your cat’s picky with texture)
Airtight containers or ice cube trays (for storing)

That’s it. No fancy gadgets.

Tips for Storage and Shelf Life

Gravy doesn’t last forever. And cats are so dramatic when food smells “off.”

Here’s what to do:

Let the gravy cool first. Never store it hot.
Pour it into glass jars or BPA-free containers.
Keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Or freeze it in ice cube trays for up to 2 weeks.
Label it. Date it. Cats won’t thank you, but your nose will.

Easy Homemade Cat Gravy Recipe

You open the fridge. Your cat stares. That look? It says, “Dry kibble again?”

Let’s fix that.

This homemade cat gravy recipe is easy. Quick. Super cat-approved.
Plus—it’s made with real ingredients. The kind you’d eat too (well, almost).

Let’s get to it.

Homemade Cat Food Recipe with Chicken and Peas, Chicken and Rice Recipe

What You’ll Need:

Simple stuff. Things you probably have already:

1/2 cup boneless chicken (boiled or baked)
1 cup water (or low-sodium chicken broth)
1 tsp plain pumpkin purée (optional)
1 tsp unflavored gelatin (for thicker texture)
A pinch of turmeric (optional, vet-approved for joint health)

That’s it.

How to Make It (Step-by-Step)

Boil the chicken. Soft. Easy to shred. Save the water—it’s liquid gold.
Shred the meat. No chunks. Your cat ain’t a chewer.
Blend it all. Add water, pumpkin, and gelatin. Blitz till smooth.
Cool it. Let it sit. Gravy thickens as it cools.
Serve fresh. Pour a little over dry or wet food.

Smells like something out of a bistro, right?

Bonus: Add More Nutrition

Want to level up? Try:

Bone broth: More minerals.
Sardine water: Omega-3 bomb.
Pumpkin: Fiber boost.
Egg yolk: Extra protein (cooked only).

Add small amounts. Watch your cat’s reaction. Adjust.

Quick Nutrition Snapshot (Per Tablespoon)

Protein: 2–3g (chicken base)
Fat: <1g
Calories: Around 10–15
Hydration: 90% moisture

Low-cal. High-flavor. Full belly.

That’s your gravy.
Homemade. Easy. Loved by cats.
And hey—you just became your cat’s favorite chef.

Other recipes you can try at home

Chicken and Rice Recipe for Cats: Vet-Approved, Easy, and Healthy

Best cat food recipes with fish: Salmon & Pumpkin Delight

Best Homemade Cat Food Recipes: Chicken & Pea & 5 More Delicious Recipes

Chicken Gravy for Cats (Simple Recipe)

So your cat loves chicken?
Of course, they do. Most cats do.
Here’s a chicken-only gravy recipe that’s easy. Simple. Safe. And yes—your cat will probably lick the bowl clean.

Let’s make it.

Why Chicken? Why Not!

Chicken is lean.
It’s full of protein.
Cats need protein. Lots of it.
And it’s gentle on the tummy.

It’s also super easy to work with. No strong smell like fish. No fuss like beef. Just boil, blend, and done.

Your cat will know. Somehow. They’ll start circling the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a fancy list. Just the basics:

1 boneless, skinless chicken breast
2 cups of water (or low-sodium chicken broth – no garlic/onion!)
1 tsp plain gelatin (optional, for thick texture)
Pinch of catnip (optional—some cats go crazy for it)

That’s it. No salt. No spices. No oil.

How to Make It – Real Quick

Boil the chicken – about 15–20 mins, until fully cooked.
Let it cool – you don’t want to burn your buddy’s tongue.
Shred or chop the meat.
Blend it with the water or broth. Add gelatin if using.
Strain for smooth gravy (or don’t, if your cat likes chunks).
Serve warm. Not hot. Not cold. Just right.

Texture Tips – Because Cats Are Picky

Some cats love it runny.
Some want it thick.
Others like chunks floating in gravy.

Here’s how to adjust:

Too watery? Add a bit of gelatin or cooked sweet potato.
Too thick? Mix in a little warm water.
Too lumpy? Blend it longer or strain it again.

It’s trial and error. Your cat will be the judge.

How Long It Lasts?

In the fridge: 3 days
In the freezer: up to 2 weeks

Store in an airtight container. Warm it slightly before serving. Never microwave it hot.

Real Talk: Will Every Cat Love It?

Honestly? No.
Some cats are gravy snobs.

But most? They’ll love it. Especially if it’s fresh, warm, and made with love.

Try it once. Watch their reaction. It might just become a weekly thing.

Want a turkey version next? Or fish? Let me know.
And give your cat a chin scratch from me.

Cat Gravy Variations You Can Try

Cats can get bored with the same old gravy. So why not mix it up? Let’s talk about some tasty, easy-to-make cat gravy recipes that your furry friend might love.

gravy-for-cat-food-cat-gravy-variations

Fish-Based Gravy

Fish gravy? Yes, please! Imagine your cat’s eyes lighting up when they smell fresh fish. Use cooked white fish or salmon. Make sure it’s boneless—no bones, no worries. Blend it with a little water or fish broth. Simple. Cats love it.

Turkey-Based Gravy

Turkey gravy is another hit. Especially after the holidays when you have leftover turkey. Just boil the turkey meat. Use the broth to make the gravy rich and tasty. It’s mild and perfect for sensitive tummies. Easy and healthy.

Bone Broth-Based Gravy

Bone broth gravy is like liquid gold for cats. It’s full of nutrients. Simmer bones (chicken or beef) for hours. Strain it well. Use the broth as a base for your gravy. This one is great for cats with health issues.

When to Consult Your Vet About Diet

But hey, not all cats are the same. Some might have special needs or allergies. If your cat has health problems or a picky stomach, always ask your vet before trying new gravies. Better safe than sorry.

How to Make Gravy for Cats With Special Diets

Making gravy for cats isn’t always straightforward. Especially if your kitty has special needs. Like kidney problems or allergies. Don’t worry, though. You can still make something tasty and safe. Here’s how.

Low-Phosphorus Version for Kidney Issues

Kidney issues in cats? Then phosphorus is a no-no. High phosphorus can hurt their kidneys more. So, you gotta keep it low.

Use chicken broth made from scratch. Skip the salty stuff.
Avoid bones and organ meats. They pack phosphorus.
Add a little pumpkin puree. It’s gentle and good for digestion.
Thicken with a bit of plain potato starch instead of flour.

Simple. Safe. And your cat will still love it.

Grain-Free Gravy Ideas

Some cats just can’t handle grains. They might get tummy troubles or allergies. So, skip wheat, corn, or rice.

Try these instead:

Use vegetable broth or homemade meat broth.
Thicken with arrowroot powder or tapioca starch.
Blend in some pureed carrots or peas for flavor and nutrients.
Avoid adding any seasoning or salt.

Grain-free doesn’t mean boring.

Tips for Cats with Food Allergies or Sensitivities

Allergies? That’s tricky. But don’t give up.

Always introduce new gravy slowly.
Use one protein source at a time. Like just chicken or just fish.
Avoid dairy, soy, or artificial additives.
Watch your cat’s reaction for a few days.
Consult your vet if unsure.

Making gravy for special diets takes patience. But it’s worth seeing your cat enjoy their meal safely.

FAQs About Gravy for Cat Food

Can I use human gravy for cats?