Summer Recipes For Cats

Even though there are alternative foods that help kittens stay hydrated, the following summer recipes for cats should be used as treats, not to replace their normal food. 
Summer Recipes For Cats
Francisco María García

Written and verified by the lawyer Francisco María García.

Last update: 22 December, 2022

Although cats need to be properly fed throughout the year, it’s important to increase their intake during the summer. In the hot weather, kittens need help to remain hydrated and they should have a complete, but liter diet. To do this, you want to show you some summer recipes for your cat.

Water: the best of summer ingredient for your cat

Cats can lose a lot of fluids and electrolytes with the temperatures rise. Therefore, the animal will need to drink water and other healthy drinks in order to remain hydrated and to keep their body balanced.

If a kitten doesn’t drink enough water when it’s hot out, usually their metabolism slows down and they become dehydrated. As a result, the cat will become tired and lethargic, have low blood pressure, feel dizzy and may even faint.

Dehydration and a low water intake can lead to a more serious problem such as causing problems in their kidney function, which can increase the risk of failure.

Cat drinking water

The importance of drinking lots of water

Even in the summer, it’s common for cats to not want to drink water. Therefore, owners need to use “creative and attractive” methods to add more water to their diets in order to prevent dehydration.

A good way to encourage a cat to increase their water intake is by using the following delicious and refreshing homemade recipes.

Of course,  leaving them fresh water to drink is still a must. However, you can also stimulate their curiosity and appetite with juices and homemade wet meals. In order for this to happen, it’s important for these dishes to contain a high percentage of liquids and healthy ingredients.

Next, we’ll introduce some ideas for summer recipes for your cat. But remember, these dishes are to be used as complements or occasional treats.

Remember, these recipes should never replace your cat’s normal diet.  Always follow the type of diet your vet advised you to give your cat during the summer.

Cat Popsicles: activate your cat’s taste buds!

Cat popsicles are very refreshing, and can be made with fruits and vegetables that are healthy for cats. You can also make salty ice cream with animal protein — like chicken or fish — and vegetables like carrots or squash.

Boy eating a popsicle next to his cat

Since most adult cats are allergic to lactose, you shouldn’t use milk or dairy products to make these recipes. Instead, you could use rice milk or natural yogurt made with skim or reduced lactose milk. Or, you can simply make a water-based ice cream that is 100% lactose free.

This is the basic recipe to make a delicious fruit popsicle for your cat. Remember that you can add any fruit or vegetable that’s healthy for cats. It’s always important to give them this treat in moderation.

Refreshing “multifruit” popsicle for cats

Ingredients:

  • Two strawberries
  • Half an apple, cut up and remove seeds
  • 1/2 peach, cut into pieces without the pit
  • Two slices of cucumber
  • 1/2 cup vegetable rice milk

Instructions:

  • First, process and crush the fruit, cucumber and rice milk until you have a homogenous preparation. 
  • Then, pour the mixture in an ice cube tray and put it in the freezer.
  • When the popsicles are ready, you can give one to your cat every day. 

Summer recipes for your cat: fruit and vegetable juices

An even easier way to keep your cat well hydrated during the summer is by making them some delicious natural juices. Again, you should know which fruits and vegetables are healthy for your cat. This will help you make healthy recipes.

Some ideas for juices and smoothies for cats:

  • Melon and cucumber juice
  • Apple juice
  • Vegetable milk, carrot and pear smoothies
  • Water kefir, peach and strawberries
  • Refreshing watermelon juice

Remember that fruit and vegetable juices shouldn’t replace your cat’s usual food and water.

These summer recipes for your cat are healthy supplements that are meant to keep your cat nourished and hydrated in the hot weather. However, they should only be given to your cat in moderation because they have a high sugar content.


This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.