Cat treats

Why it's good to give cat treats

Treating your cat can be advantageous for both the feline and the owner. They are an excellent tool for teaching your cat new skills and reinforcing good habits like using the litter box and arriving when called. Treats can assist in discouraging bad conduct by offering a substitute reward for good deeds.

Treat-giving on a regular basis might improve your cat's association with you and build your bond. It gives you a chance to be loving and caring, which enhances your connection. Treat giving can also be included in interactive toys or puzzles to keep your cat entertained and mentally stimulated. Your cat's level of physical activity can be raised and obesity can be avoided by encouraging them to 'hunt' for rewards.

Giving your cat snacks on a regular basis might help them feel safe and dependable. Certain snacks are made to lessen the accumulation of tartar and plaque on the teeth. Some provide extra vitamins, minerals, or health benefits including joint support or hairball management. Also, medication can be administered more easily by disguising tablets or supplements as treats. Some treats are helpful during travel, veterinary visits, or environmental changes because they contain chemicals that assist in lowering stress and anxiety.

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Commercial cat treats

Commercial cat treats are widely accessible and available in a range of forms, tastes, and combinations to accommodate various requirements and inclinations.

Crunchy treats - have a hard and crunchy texture. Assist in reducing the accumulation of plaque and tartar on teeth.

Soft and moist treats - have a soft and chewy texture. Older cats or cats with dental problems will find it easier to consume these treats.

Freeze-dried treats - made with actual meat or fish that has been freeze-dried to retain nutrients. They have a lot of protein, are rarely processed, and frequently only contain one ingredient.

Dental treats - specially made to support dental health. Often have a distinct texture and form that aids in teeth cleaning.

Functional treats - include extra vitamins for particular health advantages. Take care of issues like hairballs, joint support, and digestive wellness.

Liquid treats - sauce-like consistency; typically served as a treat on its own or as a topping. Perfect for enhancing meals, satisfying picky eaters, and maintaining hydrated.

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Homemade cat treats

Making snacks at home gives you complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to make sure they are healthy and devoid of any dangerous additions or preservatives. Treats can be customized to your cat's unique nutritional requirements and preferences; for example, if your cat has any allergies, you can use hypoallergenic ingredients in the treats. Made-from-scratch snacks may have more nutrients than store-bought ones since they might contain premium proteins, wholesome fats, and vital vitamins and minerals.

These are some healthy homemade cat treats; make sure your dog can safely eat them before trying any of the recipes.

Tuna and catnip treats - treats made at home with tuna and catnip are a fun way to give your cat something healthy and delicious to eat. Protein, which is vital for your cat's health, is abundant in tuna. Catnip can be exciting and stimulating to the mind, and most cats love it.

Chicken and carrot treats - rich in protein since chicken has a vital protein for energy and muscle maintenance. Carrots contain fibre and vitamins, such as A, to help with digestion.

Salmon and sweet potato treats - omega-3 fatty acids, which are in salmon, are good for your cat"s skin, coat, and general health. Sweet potatoes contribute vitamins (such as A) and fibre to support healthy digestion and overall well-being.

Pumpkin and tuna treats - because pumpkin has a lot of fibre, it can aid in digestion and keep your cat from becoming constipated. Additionally, vitamins A, C, and E found in pumpkin are good for your cat's general health.

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Tips for choosing cat treats

The health and happiness of your feline friend depend on the selection of cat treats. Seek goodies with chicken, fish, or turkey that have high-quality animal protein as the primary ingredient. Choose treats come with extra health benefits, like extra vitamins and minerals, hairball control, and dental care.

Since organic treats are made without artificial pesticides or antibiotics and are instead crafted with premium, natural ingredients, they can be a wise choice. Treats high in fillers, such as maize, wheat, or soy, should be avoided since some cats may find them difficult to digest.

Select treats that don't contain known food allergies or sensitivities if your cat has them. Treats should fit your cat's particular diet requirements if it follows one, such as a grain-free, low-calorie, or urinary care regimen. Only a small percentage of your cat's daily caloric intake should come from treats, hence seek low-calorie alternatives to prevent gaining weight.

Providing your cat with a range of textures—chewy, crunchy, and soft—will help maintain their attention and improve their dental health, but choose treats that are small enough for your cat to readily chew and swallow.

Keep an eye out for any cat treat recalls. Usually, the manufacturer's website or websites regarding pet food recalls have this information. Check out other cat owners' product reviews to find out whether their pets enjoy the treats. For advice on nutritious treat options that meet the unique medical requirements of your cat, speak with your veterinarian.

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Treats that you should not give to your cat

Cats may be harmed or even poisoned by certain human meals and treats. These are some foods and snacks that you should not give your cat.

Chocolate - cats are particularly poisonous to chocolate because it contains two substances: caffeine and theobromine. They are toxic to cats and can result in convulsions, vomiting, diarrhoea, and fast breathing.

Garlic and onions - garlic and onions contain substances that are harmful to cats, which is why they are allergic to them. Thiosulfates are the main dangerous substances, which can harm red blood cells and upset the stomach, which might result in anaemia. This includes the powdered onions and garlic that are frequently found in processed foods.

Grapes and raisins - though the precise toxic component present in grapes and raisins is yet unclear, their ability to cause abrupt kidney failure is the main reason cats (and dogs) find them toxic. Even small amounts can be dangerous.

Alcohol - because alcohol interferes with cats' central nervous systems and metabolism, it can be harmful to them and cause serious health problems that could even be fatal.

Caffeinated drinks - caffeine, a stimulant present in many drinks, can have serious and possibly fatal consequences on cats' health, so cats should not consume caffeine-containing beverages. Rapid heartbeat, hyperactivity, tremors, and seizures can all be brought on by caffeine.

Xylitol - a sugar alternative present in various baked items, candies, and sugar-free gum. It can result in liver failure and the release of insulin, which lowers blood sugar and causes hypoglycemia.

Raw fish - the main reasons raw fish might be toxic to cats are the possibility of bacterial infection and the existence of thiaminase, an enzyme that breaks down thiamine (vitamin B1).

Raw eggs - the possibility of contracting Salmonella or E. Coli as well as an enzyme that prevents the B vitamin biotin from being absorbed.

Bones and fat trimmings - may result in digestive tract injury, intestinal obstructions, or choking.

Dairy products - since lactose, a sugar in milk, cannot be effectively digested by cats, it can cause upset stomach, gas, and diarrhoea. For this reason, cats are frequently classified as being intolerant to dairy products.

Dog treats - may contain components that are toxic to cats or improper nutrient levels because they are not made for cats.

Raw dough - can enlarge and generate gas within the digestive tract, leading to discomfort and possible obstruction. Additionally, harmful alcohol is produced by yeast.

Processed human snacks - certain foods, such as popcorn, pretzels, and chips, are too fatty or salty, or they may include harmful ingredients.

Macadamia nuts - macadamia nuts contain unidentified chemicals that can have a variety of harmful consequences, making them harmful to both dogs and cats. Although the precise toxin present in macadamia nuts is unknown, eating these nuts can have major negative effects on one's health.

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