Looking for a quick, nutritious homemade cat food recipe? This Beef Mince & Spinach Stir is a protein-packed, feline-approved dish that’s easy to prepare and ideal as a supplement to your cat’s regular diet.
Made with just three ingredients, this recipe keeps things simple—no fillers, preservatives, or unnecessary additives. Plus, it’s a great way to boost your cat’s daily protein intake with a gentle touch of greens.
🐾 Note: This is a meal supplement or treat, not a complete diet. Always pair with a vet-approved, balanced cat food to meet all nutritional needs.
🐱 Why Your Cat Will Love This
Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning meat is essential for their survival. This recipe is built around:
- Lean ground beef – rich in protein, iron, zinc, and B vitamins.
- Lightly steamed spinach – a gentle source of fiber, magnesium, and vitamin K.
- Moisture – added through broth or water to support hydration and easier digestion.
It’s not only tasty and tender but helps encourage appetite in picky eaters.
🧾 Ingredients (Single Serving)
| Ingredient | Amount | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Lean ground beef | 1/4 pound (~115g) | High-protein, rich in nutrients |
| Fresh spinach | 1/4 cup, chopped | Gentle vitamin boost |
| Water or beef broth (low sodium) | 1–2 tbsp | Improves texture and moisture |
🛑 Avoid: Seasonings, onions, garlic, and excess fat. Cats don’t need added flavors — and many are toxic.
👩🍳 How to Prepare It
🔥 Step 1: Cook the Beef
- Place the ground beef in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Break into small pieces with a spatula and cook thoroughly (no pink remains).
- Do not add oil, butter, or seasoning.
🥬 Step 2: Steam the Spinach
- Steam or boil the spinach for 1–2 minutes until wilted.
- Drain and finely chop once cooled. This makes it easier for your cat to digest.
🥣 Step 3: Mix & Moisturize
- Combine the cooked beef and spinach in a clean bowl.
- Add 1–2 tablespoons of warm water or low-sodium beef broth.
- Mix thoroughly to create a soft, juicy consistency your cat will love.
❄️ Step 4: Let It Cool
- Cool the mixture to room temperature before serving.
- Never serve hot, and avoid refrigerating immediately after cooking if it’s meant to be served right away.
🍽 Serving & Portion Guidelines
| Cat Weight | Serving Size (As a Treat) |
|---|---|
| Under 8 lbs | 1–2 tablespoons |
| 8–15 lbs | 2–4 tablespoons |
This recipe is ideal as a topper, occasional treat, or meal booster—not a full replacement for balanced cat food.
❗ Important Nutritional Notes
- This meal is not a complete and balanced diet. It lacks taurine, calcium, and certain essential amino acids required for long-term feline health.
- Always feed in moderation, and consult your vet before adding homemade foods regularly.
- Cats with urinary issues or kidney disease may need modifications.
🐶 Can Dogs Eat This Too?
Yes! This recipe is also safe and beneficial for most dogs.
Just remember:
- Dogs can handle slightly larger portions.
- No need to chop the spinach finely—they’re less picky than cats.
- Adjust beef quantity based on dog size.
🧊 How to Store Leftovers
| Storage Method | Duration | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 days | Store in airtight container |
| Freezer | Up to 1 month | Portion into freezer bags or silicone trays |
To reheat: Slightly warm in microwave-safe dish (not too hot!) and let it cool before serving.
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Why It’s a Problem |
|---|---|
| Using fatty beef | Can cause digestive upset |
| Serving raw spinach | Harder to digest and may reduce absorption |
| Adding salt, onion, garlic | Toxic to cats (even in small amounts) |
| Serving cold or hot food | Room temp is ideal for sensitive stomachs |
🔁 Simple Variations to Try
- Switch to turkey mince for a leaner protein
- Substitute kale for spinach (in small amounts)
- Add plain pumpkin puree (1 tsp) for digestive support
- Use bone broth instead of water for added nutrients
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use raw beef instead of cooked?
No. Raw beef may contain harmful bacteria. Cooking makes it safer and easier to digest.
Is spinach safe for cats long term?
In small, cooked amounts—yes. But it should not be a daily staple due to oxalates.
Can I mix this with dry food?
Absolutely. It makes a great wet topper for dry kibble.
✅ Final Thoughts
The Beef Mince & Spinach Stir is a simple, nutritious way to add variety, moisture, and extra protein to your cat’s mealtime. It’s quick to make, easy to store, and—most importantly—cat-approved.
While not a complete diet on its own, this recipe is a great homemade addition to a well-rounded feeding plan. Try it out, and see if your furry critic gives it two paws up!