You want to provide the best cat treats for your feline companion since you are a devoted cat parent. You’ve undoubtedly pondered whether treats qualify as a component of your cat’s primary diet and the distinction between cat food and treats. And…….this is what you should know:
What’s the Difference Between Cat Treats and Cat Food?
With all the vital nutrients, vitamins, and minerals your cat needs to flourish, cat food is made to be a comprehensive and well-balanced source of nourishment. Whether wet or dry, premium cat food is made to satisfy the unique nutritional needs of cats and guarantees that they receive the proper ratio of carbohydrates, fats, and protein.
However, cat treats are not a balanced and complete meal. They should not be used as a primary source of nourishment; rather, they are meant to be used as supplementary snacks. Although giving your cat treats might be a fun way to show your appreciation or to deepen your relationship, they sometimes don’t include all the nutrients that cat food does.
Wet vs. Dry Cat Food
As long as the food you choose is completely full and balanced for your cat’s age and life stage, both wet and dry cat food are great options. To provide your cat the dental advantages of dry food, veterinarians advise feeding them a mix of wet and dry food. Wet food ensures that your cat gets sufficient hydration and the diversity in their diet keeps them engaged.
Wet Cat Food
Wet cat food has a moisture content of at least 65 percent or more and can be found in cans and pouches. Benefits of wet cat food are:
- Appealing textures and ingredients
- Easier to chew
- A more varied diet
- Increased water intake
Dry Cat Food
Due to its ease of use and storage, dry cat food, often known as kibble, is a popular choice among cat owners. With a moisture level of less than 20% and bigger bags, dry food has a longer shelf life. Benefits of dry cat food are:
- More cost effective
- Can be left out for grazing
- Helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup on teeth
Why Does It Matter?
- Balanced Nutrition: Your cat’s general health may suffer from nutritional excesses or deficiencies brought on by a diet high in treats. For their bodies to function at their best, cats require a balanced diet of protein, lipids, carbs, vitamins, and minerals. All the top cat food brands are formulated to provide this balance, while treats are not.
- Weight Management: Compared to cat food, treats usually are higher in calorie, sugar, or fat content. Overindulging in sweets may result in weight gain and obesity, which can cause a number of health concerns, such as joint difficulties and diabetes.
- Digestive Health: Additionally, giving your cat too many treats might upset their gut. Diarrhea, vomiting, or upset stomach might result from the artificial chemicals and/or excessive calorie content. It’s crucial to watch your cat’s behavior and introduce new treats gradually.
- Training and Bonding: Positive reinforcement and training may both benefit from treats. During training sessions, rewarding your cat with treats may help deepen your relationship and encourage positive habits. Treats should, however, be used sparingly and in combination with other positive reinforcement techniques, such affection, pets and praise, etc.
How to Choose Healthy & Best Cat Treats
- Read the Label: Select treats that are prepared using premium ingredients and have less calories. Steer clear of treats that include artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
- Consider Your Cat’s Needs: Select treats that are suitable for your cat’s condition if they have any special dietary requirements or medical issues.
- Choose appropriate treats: Choose treats with a purpose, such as treats to prevent hairballs or dental treats to clean your cat’s teeth.
- Moderation is Key: Only a modest percentage of your cat’s daily caloric intake should come from treats. Treats should not account for more than 10% of their daily caloric intake, as a general rule.
- Fresh water: Always make sure your cat has plenty of fresh water.
Human Food
Many human foods are unsafe for cats, despite the temptation to share your favorite treats with them. Certain foods, such as chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic, are toxic to cats. Avoid offering your cat table scraps or other human foods; instead, limit your rewards to cat-specific treats.
Cats can, however, consume some human foods. Cooked beef, chicken, and turkey are excellent choices since cats need protein from meat to have a healthy reproductive system, a strong heart, and good vision. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, especially canned or cooked fish, are beneficial for cats’ eyes and can treat heart problems, renal illness, and arthritis.
FAQs
Can I feed my cat only treats?
No. Treats are not designed to be a complete source of nutrition and should only be given in moderation.
How many treats can I give my cat each day?
Treats should be limited to no more than 10% of your cat’s daily calorie intake. Check with your vet if you’re unsure about your cat’s daily calorie needs.
Are there any treats that are actually good for my cat?
Yes, there are many healthy treat options available, such as dental treats for cleaning teeth or hairball control treats.
Can kittens eat cat treats?
Kittens have different nutritional needs than adult cats, so it’s important to choose treats that are specifically formulated for kittens.
What should I do if my cat eats too many treats?
If your cat eats too many treats and experiences digestive upset, withhold food for a few hours and monitor their condition. If symptoms persist, consult your veterinarian.
