Healthier Treats for Your Cat: Expert Recommendations to Promote Well-Being
By Elizabeth Xu
As the workday comes to a close, many pet owners look forward to the companionship of their feline friends. While it’s natural to want to spoil your cat with treats during your bonding time, veterinary experts warn that overindulgence can lead to serious health issues.
The Risks of Overfeeding: Understanding Cat Obesity
Dr. Rachel Barrack, DVM, a veterinary acupuncturist at Animal Acupuncture, emphasizes that obesity poses a significant health risk for pets. “It has been shown that obesity is linked to major medical problems in both dogs and cats, including cancer, degenerative joint disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and decreased life expectancy and quality of life,” she explains. The primary cause of obesity in pets is often linked to overfeeding, especially with treats.
Healthy Treat Options for Your Cat
While it’s essential to limit treat intake, you can still provide healthy snacks. However, choosing the right type of treats can be more challenging for cats than for dogs. Dr. Amy Farcas, DVM, a veterinary nutritionist with Veterinary Nutrition Care in California, notes, “Cats are different; they don’t eat most of what we think would make a good treat for animals, including fruits and vegetables.” To help your furry companion maintain a healthy weight, consider the following six treat options:
- Small Pieces of Lean Meat: Cats require amino acids found in protein, making small pieces of cooked meat a great treat option.
- Their Kibble: Serving your cat’s regular kibble as a treat can cut down on excess calories. “Set aside some of your pet’s food to allocate as a ‘treat’ throughout the day,” Barrack suggests.
- Dried Liver: This protein-rich treat is also a favorite among cats, though it should be given in moderation according to the Knox County Humane Society.
- Wet Cat Food: Offering wet food can add variety to your cat’s diet while serving as a delightful treat.
- Commercial Treats: While homemade options can enhance your bonding experience, many commercial treats are formulated to meet a cat’s nutritional needs. Consult your veterinarian for tailored advice.
- Affection: Remember, treats aren’t the only way to show love. Cats appreciate affection through petting, play, and attention—without the calories.
Establishing Healthy Feeding Practices
It’s crucial to recognize that treats are not a necessity for cats. “Even if you’re feeding an item that’s considered to be healthy, it’s still considered an unbalanced food item because it doesn’t provide that whole package that a complete diet does,” Dr. Farcas warns.
To ensure your cat maintains a healthy diet, avoid excessive treat giving. Many commercial pet foods offer balanced nutrition, allowing a safe range of 5-10% of daily intake from treats without creating nutritional deficiencies.
Conclusion: Treating with Care
In conclusion, while it’s enjoyable to treat your cat, it’s vital to be mindful of their health. By choosing appropriate treats and maintaining balanced feeding practices, you can help your feline friend live a happier, healthier life.
