Forget the basic water bowl. It’s time to upgrade Happy Hour for the most discerning members of the household: the cats!
Felines are sophisticated creatures. They deserve more than lukewarm tap water. To keep the cats hydrated, look no further than the viral trend inspired by Mr. Biscuits, the three-legged domestic cat whose owner, mixologist John Feller, serves him feline friendly cocktails on the regular.
The original drink was the “Mr. Biscuits’ Martini” (milk and water), but we’re kicking things up a notch with a crowd-pleasing, fishy favorite: the Tunatini!
Why Your Cat Needs a Cocktail
This trend isn’t just for fun; it tackles a serious feline health issue. Cats are notoriously poor drinkers. They have what veterinarians call a “low thirst drive,” a trait inherited from their desert-dwelling ancestors who got most of their hydration from the prey they ate.
In the cozy confines of your home, this low thirst drive can be dangerous. Cats who don’t drink enough are at risk for urinary tract issues, including the formation of painful crystals and stones. A tasty feline friendly cocktail is the perfect way to make drinking an irresistible, high-value activity.
The Ultimate Feline Cocktail: The Tunatini
The Tunatini recipe is simple, safe, and uses an ingredient that drives any cat wild:
The Ingredients
- 1 Part Tinned Tuna Juice ( MUST be tuna packed in water, NOT oil.)
- 2 – 4 Parts Water
- 1 Small Cube of Ice
Make sure you use the liquid from a can of tuna that is packed only in water, not oil or any added seasoning.
The Recipe
- The Mix: In a small glass or container, combine 1 part tuna juice with 2 to 4 parts plain water. Start with the lower ratio (more water) and adjust up to a 1:2 ratio if your cat prefers a stronger flavor.
- The Shake: Stir the mixture or gently shake it.
- The Serve: Pour the Tunatini into a small, clean glass or a fun, shallow dish. A miniature martini glass is purr-fect for presentation!
- The Garnish (Optional): For a fancy finish, rub a bit of a lickable treat like Churu around the rim of the glass and dip it in crushed kibble. This creates a delectable, feline version of a salted rim!
Important Safety Tips From The Vet
Before you start bartending, remember these critical rules:
- Avoid Alliums! Never use ingredients from the allium family, including garlic, onions, or chives. These are toxic to cats. This is why you must avoid most commercial human broths.
- Say No to Salt: Most cats get enough sodium from their regular food. Avoid broths or fish products with excessive salt, as this can put extra strain on their kidneys.
- Skip the Sweet: A cat’s tongue can’t taste sweetness, so don’t bother with fruit juices or other sugary additions as they hold zero appeal.
Make it a Date: You Deserve a Drink, Too
If you’re going to all the trouble to mix a delicious, artisanal cocktail for your cat, you absolutely deserve one yourself. So, shake up the human version of this fishy cocktail and settle in for a cuddly and well-hydrated evening with the cats!
