An unsupported catalyst and a preparation method therefor. The catalyst comprises an active metal oxide and an auxiliary agent embedded on the outer surface of the active metal oxide. The active metal oxide is one or more selected from oxides of the following metals: ferrum, cobalt, nickel, and copper. The auxiliary agent is one or more selected from the following elements: ferrum, cobalt, nickel, copper, rhodium, manganese, potassium, silver, calcium, magnesium, zirconium, aluminum, zinc, ruthenium, platinum, sodium, and phosphorus. The auxiliary agent is present in the form of a simple substance or an oxide.