When a kitten transitions from mother's milk to solid food, it needs a soft, calorie-rich food that is high in animal protein. This recipe combines finely shredded cooked chicken and hard-boiled egg yolk: two ingredients that provide essential amino acids, taurine and healthy fats in a texture that is easy to lap up. It is perfect as a complete meal during the first weeks of weaning, or as a supplement for kittens that are recovering from illness.
Ingredients
- 80 g boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 egg yolk (the white cooked separately, see notes)
- 3–4 tablespoons of chicken cooking water (unsalted)
- 1 level teaspoon of salmon oil (optional, for omega-3)
Method
- Rinse the chicken breast under cold water and place it in a small saucepan with enough water to cover it. Do not add salt or any other seasoning.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Meanwhile, cook the egg in boiling water for 8–9 minutes, then cool it and separate the yolk from the white.
- Drain the chicken (reserving the cooking water) and allow it to cool slightly. Shred it by hand into very thin strands, or briefly blend it in a food processor.
- Mash the yolk with a fork until it becomes a fine powder.
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken, yolk and a few tablespoons of warm cooking water until you achieve a creamy, spreadable consistency.
- If you are using salmon oil, add it only just before serving.
Notes
For kittens under 4 months, serve the food just lukewarm, never hot. The taurine found in the yolk and chicken is essential for heart and vision development. The cooked egg white can be set aside for other meals, but avoid giving it raw: it contains avidin, which blocks the absorption of biotin. Do not replace the chicken with tuna or mackerel as a regular recipe, and never add cow's milk, salt, onion or garlic.
Storage
Use the food within 24 hours, storing it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. Reheat only the required portion using a bain-marie or by adding a tablespoon of warm water. Do not freeze: the texture would be adversely affected.