Cats are fickle eaters, and many enjoy a wide variety of treats and other foods in addition to a normal diet. Healthy cat treats are essential for helping to maintain proper body weight and nutrition. Cat obesity and overweight is a growing problem in veterinary medicine, and excessive or unhealthy cat treats are a significant contributing factor. Continue reading to learn about healthy treats that your pet will enjoy, as well as proper feeding methods and tactics.
Meats
Cats are carnivorous animals, and a wild cat may subsist entirely on the animals that it catches. As such, healthy cat treats are generally composed of meat products. Cats do not require large amounts of fat, and it is best to avoid fatty meats when selecting a cat treat. Because the ingredient list in cat treats can be difficult to determine, you may wish to cook liver, turkey or chicken and provide small bites to your pet as treats.
Greens
One of the healthiest types of cat treat are those composed of grasses and herbs. Catnip is a popular cat treat, as are cat grass and a variety of other plants that you can easily grow in a garden or even on a windowsill. These foods are nutritionally neutral, but some may cause indigestion in cats. As a result, it is not unusual to see a cat regurgitate a plant-based treat. Be careful that you know that the plant that you are feeding your pet is not toxic. For further advice, consult with a veterinarian or veterinary toxicity guide.
Avoid Toxins and People Food
Although cats may beg at the table or come calling when you have prepared a meal for humans in the home, it is generally best if they do not eat the same foods as people. Human foods contain a variety of ingredients that are difficult for a cat's body to digest. This may contribute to gastrointestinal problems or even more serious medical concerns as well.
Certain common human foods are highly toxic to cats. Under no circumstance should you feed your cat grapes or raisins, tea, salt or onions. If you suspect that your pet has consumed one or more of these foods, contact a veterinarian or animal hospital immediately.
The key to healthy cat treats is moderation. Your cat's non-meal food should account for no more than 10% of his daily caloric intake. Cat treats should not be used as a substitute for nutritionally-balanced cat foods, nor should you provide your pet with so many treats that he begins to reject his normal food. Healthy cat treats and moderation should also be combined with exercise and activity in order to help maintain your pet's weight and fitness.
If you do not wish to make your own, visit a pet store or veterinary office for a supply of healthy cat treats. If you have any further questions, do not hesitate to consult a veterinarian for additional advice.