As a cat owner, you might wonder whether you should give your feline friend treats. After all, who doesn't love spoiling their pets? However, it's essential to understand the proper way to give treats to your cat.
In this article, we will discuss everything you should know about giving treats to your cat, including the types of treats to choose from, the proper way to give them, and how many treats your cat should have.
Types of Treats
There are many types of cat treats available in the market, but not all of them are created equal. Some treats contain high levels of salt, fat, or sugar, which can be harmful to your cat's health. It's essential to choose treats that are specifically formulated for cats and have been tested and approved by veterinarians.
Some of the best treats for cats include freeze-dried meat treats, dental treats, and interactive treats. Freeze-dried meat treats are made from high-quality meat and are rich in protein, making them a healthy snack for your cat. Dental treats are specially formulated to help keep your cat's teeth clean and healthy.
They come in different shapes and sizes and are designed to scrape off the plaque and tartar from your cat's teeth. Interactive treats, such as puzzle feeders, are designed to stimulate your cat's mind and encourage them to play.
The Proper Way to Give Treats
It's important to give treats to your cat in moderation. Overfeeding your cat with treats can lead to obesity, which can, in turn, lead to other health problems such as diabetes and heart disease. Treats should be given as a reward for good behavior or as a way to bond with your cat.
When giving treats to your cat, make sure to do it in a controlled environment. Avoid giving your cat treats while they are begging or meowing excessively as this reinforces bad behavior. Instead, wait until your cat is calm and relaxed before offering them a treat.
It's also essential to monitor your cat's weight when giving treats. If your cat starts to gain weight, you may need to cut back on the number of treats you give them. Similarly, if your cat has a medical condition such as diabetes, you should consult with your veterinarian before giving them treats.
How Many Treats Should Your Cat Have?
The number of treats your cat should have depends on several factors, such as their age, weight, and activity level. As a general rule, treats should make up no more than 10% of your cat's daily calorie intake. For example, if your cat needs 200 calories a day, they should have no more than 20 calories from treats.
It's also important to consider the size of the treat when determining how many to give your cat. Small treats can be given more frequently than larger treats, which should be given sparingly. As a guideline, you should aim to give your cat no more than two to three treats per day.
Conclusion
Giving treats to your cat can be a great way to bond with them and reward good behavior. However, it's important to choose treats that are healthy and approved by veterinarians. Following these guidelines ensures that your cat stays healthy and happy while enjoying the occasional treat.
If you want to spoil your feline friend with healthy and delicious treats, PeekAPaw has everything you need. Buy cat food online from a wide variety of cat treats that are formulated specifically for your furry friend's needs. Shop our catalogue today to find the best one for your beloved pet.
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