In 5 steps to a healthy snack for cats
Have you always wanted to make your own treats that are inexpensive, healthy, natural and also good for your pet's teeth? Then you absolutely have to try these dried snacks, which are even suitable for people with food allergies. They are easy to make yourself and you know what is in them!
Chicken hearts are a popular delicacy for cats, whether raw, cooked or dried. They also contain important nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Dried, they are a highly sought-after snack. Drying gently preserves the chicken hearts for longer and intensifies their flavour.
Plus point: All vitamins are retained. You can find out what you need and how to prepare it in this post by @littlerredtigers (Instagram account of Tanja, Lucky and Speedy).
ingredients and equipment
- 1 kg fresh chicken hearts
- dehydrators / ovens
- storage jars / paper bags
- scissors / knife
How to prepare the dried snacks
Step 1: Remove any fat from the chicken hearts, as fat becomes rancid after drying and affects their shelf life! Then cut into slices about 0.5 cm thick. This works best with scissors.
Step 2: Spread the slices on the drying racks/baking tray so that they do not touch each other.
Step 3: In the dehydrator: dry at 70°C for approx. 5-6 hours until they are hard and dry. In the oven: dry at 70°C (fan oven) for approx. 5-6 hours, leaving the door slightly open with a wooden spoon handle/cork/towel wedged in. Now the moisture can escape from the meat and the hearts can be preserved. The slices can be turned over in between.
Step 4: After drying, the snacks should be cooled and left to air dry to avoid any residual moisture. Then store them in a cool, dry place, e.g. in a storage jar or paper bag. They will last for about a month.
Step 5: Now the healthiest treats are ready and waiting to be tasted.
Tip: Dried chicken hearts are perfect for clicker training or the activity board. Soaked in water, they also provide additional moisture.
Enjoy your meal and have fun baking!
