The holidays are all about joy, cozy vibes, and making memories with the ones you love—including your kitty! If you’re looking to sprinkle some festive magic into your kitty’s world this season, why not whip up a special holiday treat just for them?
Enter the Kitty Cocktail—a fun, cat-approved twist on the classic eggnog that’s sure to make your cat purr with delight. Unlike store-bought cat treats that often contain additives, this homemade kitty cocktail uses fresh, high-quality ingredients to ensure your cat stays happy and healthy this holiday season.
Why Make a Kitty Cocktail?
Because your cat is more than just a pet—they’re part of the family! Creating holiday traditions with them makes the season even more memorable. This kitty-friendly cocktail is a fun way to include your furball in the festivities and toast to the holidays together. And it’s just freaking fun! Without further adieu, we present…the Kitty Cocktail.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup goat’s milk
- 1/4 cup organic broth from Crude Carnivore (pick your cat’s fave flavor)
- 1 organic quail egg (or a regular chicken egg if that’s what you have)
- 1/2 teaspoon of catnip
- A pinch of organic cinnamon
- A sprinkle of crushed dehydrated liver for garnish
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make a Cat-Friendly Cocktail:
- Whisk It Up: In a small bowl, whisk together the goat’s milk and broth—this is the tasty base that’ll have your cat lapping it up.
- Crack in the Egg: Add the quail egg and whisk until smooth. It’ll make the drink creamy and give your kitty a protein boost.
- Catnip Magic: Stir in the catnip for that extra "wow" factor that will have your kitty feeling festive in no time.
- Spice It Up (Just a Little): Sprinkle a tiny bit of cinnamon for a touch of holiday spice. A little goes a long way here!
- Garnish & Serve: Pour the cocktail into your cat’s favorite dish and top it off with a sprinkle of crushed dehydrated liver. Voilà—your cat’s holiday treat is ready to serve!
Nutritional Breakdown
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for a single serving of this kitty cocktail, so you can indulge your cat while keeping their diet balanced:
- Calories: 35-40 (varies slightly depending on broth and garnish)
- Protein: 4.5g (supports muscle health and overall energy)
- Fat: 2g (for a shiny coat and healthy skin)
- Carbohydrates: 1g (minimal to keep it cat-appropriate)
- Hydration: High water content (essential for cats prone to dehydration)
This festive kitty cocktail is a nutrient-packed treat, designed as an occasional indulgence rather than a meal replacement. Always serve it in moderation to keep your kitty happy and healthy!
Storage Tips
To keep your holiday-inspired kitty cocktail fresh and safe for your cat, proper storage is key. Follow these tips to ensure your cat’s treat is always delicious:
- Refrigerate Immediately: If you’re not serving the cocktail right away, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. This helps prevent spoilage and keeps the ingredients fresh.
- Single-Serve Portions: If your kitty cocktail makes more than one serving, consider dividing it into small, single-serving portions before refrigerating. This way, you can quickly grab a fresh serving without exposing the rest to air or contaminants.
- Freeze for Later: For longer storage, pour the cocktail into ice cube trays and freeze it. Simply thaw a cube in the fridge or at room temperature before serving. Frozen portions can be stored for up to 2 weeks.
- Avoid Reheating: Reheating can alter the consistency and nutritional value of the cocktail. Serve it cold or at room temperature for the best results.
Proper storage ensures your cat’s festive treat remains fresh and safe while giving you the flexibility to make it ahead of time.
Health Benefits of These Ingredients
Creating a kitty cocktail isn’t just about festive fun—it’s packed with ingredients that offer amazing benefits for your cat's health. Here’s a breakdown of why each ingredient in this holiday-inspired treat is good for your kitty:
- Goat’s Milk: A great alternative to cow’s milk, goat’s milk is easier for cats to digest and provides essential nutrients like calcium, potassium, and vitamin A, promoting healthy bones, teeth, and a shiny coat. Plus, it contains probiotics to support gut health.
- Organic Broth: Whether it’s bone, chicken, or beef broth, this ingredient is loaded with hydration and nutrients. Bone broth in particular can promote joint health, improve digestion, and support your cat's immune system. Just make sure it’s low in sodium and free from harmful additives. Keep the spices to a minimum as well.
- Quail Egg: Eggs are a powerhouse of protein and essential amino acids, which help maintain muscle health and energy levels. Quail eggs, in particular, are a great choice for cats with sensitivities to chicken proteins.
- Nutritional yeast: Packed with B-vitamins, nutritional yeast enhances your cat’s energy and metabolism.
- Catnip: Catnip isn’t just for play—it’s also great for relaxation and mental stimulation. It’s completely safe for cats in small amounts and makes the cocktail even more enticing!
- Cinnamon (a pinch): While cinnamon should be used sparingly, a tiny pinch can provide anti-inflammatory benefits and add a festive flair. Always double-check with your vet if you’re unsure about this ingredient.
- Crushed Dehydrated Liver (Garnish): Liver is packed with vitamins like A and B, as well as iron and omega-3 fatty acids, all of which promote healthy skin, a shiny coat, and overall vitality. Just a sprinkle of dehydrated liver is enough to provide a flavorful and nutritious garnish.
These wholesome ingredients are carefully chosen to ensure your kitty enjoys a safe, festive, and nutritious holiday treat!
A Quick Reminder:
This festive treat is just that—a special holiday treat! It’s not meant to replace regular meals, so be sure to keep it as an occasional indulgence. Always check with your vet before giving your cat new foods, especially if they have any health concerns.
Wrap It Up
The holidays are all about creating special memories, and what better way to do that than by spoiling your cat with a homemade holiday treat? Whether you’re whipping up this Kitty Cocktail or just cuddling by the fireplace, the moments spent with your cat are the ones that’ll stay with you forever. What holiday tradition will you start with your kitty this year? Let us know in the comment!
We’d love to see how your kitty enjoys their holiday cocktail! Tag us on Instagram @soykittylitter or on Facebook @soykittylitter.
Looking for more holiday treats? Check out our recipe for Cat-Friendly Homemade Holiday Cookies!
FAQs
Q: Is cinnamon safe for cats?
A: Yes, cinnamon is safe for cats in very small quantities, like the pinch used in the Kitty Cocktail recipe. It can add a festive touch without harming your cat. However, too much cinnamon can cause digestive upset or irritation, so it’s crucial to use it sparingly and ensure your cat doesn’t have any pre-existing health conditions.
Q: Is goat milk safe for my cat to drink?
A: Yes, many cats tolerate goat’s milk better than cow’s milk because it has lower lactose levels. Goat’s milk is a great option for occasional treats as it is rich in vitamins, minerals, and probiotics that support your cat's digestive health. However, if your cat is lactose intolerant or has a sensitive stomach, consult your vet before introducing goat’s milk or any new ingredient.
Q: Is catnip necessary for the Kitty Cocktail, and what are its benefits?
A: Catnip is not necessary for the recipe, but it adds an extra festive element that many cats enjoy. Catnip contains nepetalactone, a compound that can stimulate playful behavior and reduce stress in cats. If your cat doesn’t respond to catnip or doesn’t like it, you can leave it out without compromising the treat’s overall appeal. You could also try silver vine or valerian in its place.