Summer is the peak season for refreshing ice cream, and cats enjoy it too when it’s hot. Would you like to surprise your cat with some ice cream for a change? We will clarify whether ice cream is dangerous for cats and show you how to make your own healthy cat ice cream.
Make your own cat ice cream: 5 great recipe ideas
© FurryFritz / stock.adobe.com
A bit of tasty fun is a must during summer – for cats too. You can make your own cat ice cream with simple tips and a few ingredients.
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Can cats eat ice cream?
Cats’ larger relatives are accustomed to high temperatures, so domestic cats can generally handle heat well. However, even some heat-tolerant cats may find it too hot during the peak of summer.
Providing shady spots and ample water can help keep them refreshed. Nevertheless, many cat owners wonder if it’s safe to give their cats ice cream.
Making your own cat ice cream: Tips for a simple and enjoyable treat
In principle, there’s nothing wrong with treating cats to frozen snacks on hot summer days. However, cat owners should keep the following tips in mind to avoid upsetting their cats’ stomachs:
- Cats love milk, but many of them are unable to tolerate the lactose it contains. Therefore, it’s better to choose curd, yoghurt, or special cat milk for making cat ice cream. Alternatively, you can explore lactose-free recipes, some of which are provided below.
- Just like humans, cats should indulge in moderation. A balanced feline diet is essential for their overall health, so cat ice cream, like other treats, should only be offered occasionally.
- Despite the temptation, cats should enjoy their ice cream slowly and not when it’s too cold. Let the ice cream thaw a bit before serving it to them.
While there is a wide range of ready-made ice cream available for dogs, unfortunately, the selection for cat owners is limited. However, the good news is that you can easily and inexpensively make your own cat ice cream. The best type of cat ice cream will depend on your cat’s individual taste.
As temperatures continue to rise, it’s important to protect your cat from the heat. Here are five tips to help you do just that.
Making your own cat ice cream: Ingredients and equipment
The great thing about cat ice cream is that you probably already have most of the ingredients at home. Your cat’s favorite food, treats, cat milk, or crunchy snacks can all be used.
Chocolate and sugar may sweeten ice cream for humans, but they are forbidden for cats. Salt and grains are also not suitable for cat food.
You can use natural yoghurt or curd as the base for the ice cream mixture, provided that your cat can tolerate these ingredients. Unseasoned, preferably natural broths or pure water are even gentler on sensitive feline stomachs.
In addition to the ingredients for your ice cream creations, you will need an ice cube mold. Regular-sized ice cubes are the perfect portion for an occasional treat. To prevent spills when adding unfrozen cat ice cream to the mold, it’s best to use a piping bag or a cut freezer bag. A teaspoon can also serve the same purpose.
Now all you need is patience until the ice cream is frozen. Alternatively, you can save yourself future work by making these cool summer snacks in large quantities.
© FurryFritz / stock.adobe.com
Ice-cold fish taste
Does your cat love fish? This recipe will make it purr. It couldn’t be easier: You simply need tuna and some water. Here’s how:
- Purée one portion of tuna
- Add water until the mixture takes on a creamy texture
- Fill the ice cube mould with tuna cream
- Store in the freezer until the ice cream mixture is frozen
Make your own cat ice cream with wet food
The wet food version can be made just as quickly as tuna ice cream: Instead of tuna, simply purée a portion of your cat’s favourite food.
The hidden treat in cat ice cream
Surprise your cat by hiding a treat in the ice cream mixture before freezing it. Alternatively, you can freeze it in an ice cube made of water or unseasoned broth.
For cats that like treats most of all, you can simply freeze the ice cream mix with some natural yoghurt or on its own.
Stomach-friendly dairy joy
Milk ice cream also goes down well with cats – if it contains no lactose. With special cat milk, you can win over your cat with a tasty milk ice cream that doesn’t cause stomach ache.
The requirement is that your cat doesn’t bolt down this cool snack. Leave the ice cream to thaw slightly before consumption, which protects delicate feline stomachs.
Cat milk also turns wet food or tuna ice cream into a tasty, creamy gourmet treat.
Ice cream bomb
Even if your cat is on a diet, it doesn’t have to do without soothing refreshment. An ice bomb doesn’t just offer your cat a low-calorie way to cool down, but also encourages it to play.
You just need a balloon and water to make a start:
- Remove talcum powder from the balloon: simply fill it with some water, knead and empty it again
- Fill the balloon with water (not too much, otherwise this frightens the cat)
- Place the filled balloon in the freezer until the water has frozen
- Remove the balloon
Your cat can now enjoy the ice bomb. Place it in a casserole dish or the like. Due to its shape, the ice ball is mobile and encourages your cat to play.
A final tip for making your own cat ice cream: regardless of the recipe you choose, it’s best to serve the cool treat to your cat in a small bowl. This prevents the ice cream from melting and keeps the floor clean. Bon appétit to your cat!
At zooplus, you can find a wide range of ingredients for the perfect cat ice cream and accessories to make your summer dreamy.
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