5 Easy Homemade Fall Treats for Dogs and Cats

Cooler weather always seems to bring everyone back into the kitchen, and your pets are usually right there hoping to be part of the fun. Making homemade fall treats for dogs and cats at home is an easy and rewarding way to spend a cozy afternoon, and it gives you complete control over what goes into them. 

And the best part is that you don’t need fancy equipment or complicated recipes to make homemade fall treats happen. A few simple ingredients and a few minutes of your time are all it takes. Below are a few of our favorite fall-inspired recipes to try this season.

Want even more seasonal tips? Read our guide on keeping pets happy and healthy all season long.

Our Favorite Homemade Fall Treats

1. Pumpkin and Oat Bites (Dog Friendly)

Pumpkin is a homemade fall treats favorite, and it’s just as healthy for dogs as it is delicious. These soft treats are packed with fiber and gentle on the stomach, which makes them great for senior pups or dogs with sensitive digestion.

How to make them:

• Combine 1 cup of oat flour, ½ cup of plain pumpkin puree, and 1 tablespoon of unsalted peanut butter.
• Mix until a dough forms, then roll it into small balls.
• Place on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 15 minutes.
• Let them cool before serving, and store extras in the fridge for up to a week.

2. Apple and Cheddar Puffs (Dog Friendly)

These savory puffs combine a little sweetness with a cheesy twist, making them a favorite for dogs who like variety. The combination of apple and cheddar creates a comforting fall aroma that will have noses twitching long before they cool.

How to make them:

• Grate 1 apple and combine it with ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup of whole wheat flour.
• Add a splash of water to bring the dough together.
• Roll it out, cut into shapes, and place on a baking sheet.
• Bake for 20 minutes at 350°F until golden brown.

3. Tuna and Catnip Crunchies (Cat Friendly)

When it comes to homemade fall recipes for cats, they prefer crunchy textures and strong scents, which makes this one a favorite. It’s quick to make and turns out crisp and flavorful without any unnecessary additives.

How to make them:

• Blend 1 drained can of tuna packed in water with 1 egg and ¼ cup of oat flour.
• Sprinkle in a pinch of dried catnip and mix well.
• Drop small spoonfuls onto parchment paper.
• Bake at 325°F for about 10 minutes until firm, then let them cool.
• Store in an airtight container for a few days of easy rewards.

4. Sweet Potato Rounds (Dog Friendly)

If you’re looking for something quick and healthy, these chewy sweet potato rounds are a perfect choice. They’re naturally sweet, easy to digest, and a great single-ingredient option.

How to make them:

• Wash and slice a sweet potato into thin, even rounds.
• Lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Bake at 250°F for about 2 hours, flipping halfway through.
• Allow to cool before serving, then store in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for later.

5. Salmon and Pumpkin Bites (Cat Friendly)

This simple recipe combines two things most cats adore: salmon and pumpkin. The result is a soft, protein-rich snack that’s packed with nutrients and flavor.

How to make them:

• Mix 2 tablespoons of plain pumpkin puree with 2 tablespoons of cooked flaked salmon and 1 egg.
• Spoon small portions onto a lined baking sheet.
• Bake at 325°F for about 10 minutes until firm.
• Cool completely before serving and store leftovers in the fridge.

Making Treat Time Special

Ultimately, homemade fall treats for dogs and cats are a wonderful way to bring a little extra warmth into the season. They let you be creative in the kitchen while giving your pets something wholesome and made with care. 

Just remember to serve them in moderation and stick with safe, simple ingredients. A few minutes of baking can turn an ordinary afternoon into something special for both you and your pets, and that’s what this season is all about.

If the holidays bring you away from home, Top Tails of Greensboro is here to make sure your pets stay safe, comfortable, and cared for at home so you can enjoy a stress-free holiday season. Contact us today!