Cats are finicky creatures and can be picky about their food, so how do you know what kinds of treats to give them? Here are a few tips to help you pick out the perfect treats for your feline friend!
- Know Your Cat’s Dietary Needs
The first step in picking out healthy cat treats is to know your cat’s dietary needs. If your cat has food allergies, you’ll want to choose single-ingredient treats that are safe for them to eat. If your cat has tartar issues, look for crunchy dental treats that can help with their oral health.
While most cats are carnivores, there are some plant-based cat treats on the market that can be a good option for cats with special dietary needs.
- Choose Treats That Are Nutritious
Not all cat treats are created equal! Some treats are full of empty calories and not much else, while others are packed with nutrients that can benefit your cat’s health.
When you’re scanning the ingredients list on a package of cat treats, look for natural ingredients that you recognize. Avoid treats that contain artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives. Usually, the fewer ingredients there are on the label, the better.
These will not only be healthier for your cat, but they’ll also be more likely to enjoy the taste!
- Avoid Giving Too Many Treats
Even the healthiest cat treats should be given in moderation. Cats don’t need a lot of calories from treats, so it’s important to limit the amount you give them.
A good rule of thumb is to offer no more than 10% of your cat’s daily calories in treat form. So, if your cat eats 200 calories per day, they should only have 20 calories worth of treats. Although there are some treats that don’t show calories, you can always contact the manufacturer to find out how many calories are in a serving.
- Look for Fun and Flavorful Treats
Cats can be creatures of habit, so it’s important to switch up their treats from time to time to keep them interested. Look for fun shapes, different flavors, and new textures to keep your cat’s taste buds tingling.
There are all kinds of cat treats on the market, so experiment until you find a few that your cat really loves.
- Human Food is Fine
You might be surprised to learn that you can give your cat some of the same treats you enjoy! In moderation, human food is perfectly safe for cats to eat.
Some good options include cooked chicken, canned tuna, cheese, and plain yogurt. Just avoid giving your cat foods that are high in fat or salt, as these can be harmful to their health.
- Treats Don’t Have to Replace Your Attention
While treats can be a great way to show your cat some love, they shouldn’t replace quality time with you. Make sure you’re still spending plenty of time playing, cuddling, and grooming your cat every day.
They’ll appreciate the attention just as much as the tasty treats!
Final Words
Picking out the perfect cat treats might seem simple, but there are a few things you should keep in mind to ensure your cat is happy and healthy.
Just remember to know your cat’s dietary needs, choose nutritious treats, and avoid giving too many of them. With a little trial and error, you’re sure to find some treats that your cat can’t resist!