Hydration is one of the cat's weak points, as they naturally drink very little. A lean beef broth is a tasty way to encourage them to take in more fluids: it has a rich aroma and can be poured warm over dry kibble to make it more appealing, or frozen into cubes as a refreshing snack. Once defatted, it is light and well tolerated.
Ingredients
- 150 g of lean beef (e.g. chuck or topside), in one piece
- 600 ml of water
Method
- Place the beef in the water, with no salt, onion, garlic or stock cubes.
- Bring to a gentle boil, skim the surface, then cook covered over low heat for 50–60 minutes.
- Strain the broth and set the meat aside — you can shred it for another recipe.
- Leave to cool in the refrigerator and remove the layer of fat that forms on the surface.
- Pour the warm broth over your cat's meal, or freeze it in ice-cube trays.
Notes
Never add salt, onion or garlic (the latter two are toxic to cats). Defatting the broth makes it lighter and easier to digest. This is a hydrating supplement, not a meal: the primary source of hydration remains fresh water available at all times and, ideally, wet food. No bones — the broth should be made with meat only.
Storage
In the refrigerator in a glass container for up to 2 days; as cubes in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw and serve warm, never hot.