Healthy Cat Treats: A Guide For Cat Owners

Healthy Cat Treats: A Guide For Cat Owners - HempPet.com.au

Cats are known for being independent creatures, but that doesn't stop cat owners from showering them with affection. So what can you do to show your love for these furry friends?

Cat treats are the perfect way to show your feline friend some love. They can also help with dietary needs, medical issues, or giving cats their medication. Look for treats that are low in fat and calories and are made with all-natural ingredients. You can give your cat a treat once or twice a day, but don't overdo it - too many treats can lead to weight gain and obesity.

What Are Cat Treats?

Cat treats are small snacks given to cats that are not part of mealtime. They are meant to be given as a reward or for added enjoyment for your fur baby. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and flavours and can be made from different ingredients, including meat, fish, grains, and vegetables.

What Are the Different Kinds of Cat Treats?

There is a variety of cat treats on the market, each catering to different needs. Whether you're looking for a training aid or a softer food option for your cat, there's a perfect treat. Let's take a look at some of the different types available.

  • Lickable or soft treats
  • Crunchy treats
  • Freeze-dried & dehydrated treats
  • Catnip & cat grass
  • Pill covers & wraps
  • Veterinary diet treats

Cat Treats with Extra Health Benefits

Aside from traditional snacks, there are also specialised treats that offer additional health benefits. These can include dental treats to aid oral hygiene, hairball control treats to reduce vomiting and digestive problems, and joint health treats for older cats.

Following are cat treats with extra health and medicinal benefits:

  • Calming cat treats
  • Cat treats for dental health
  • Cat treats for joints & mobility
  • Cat treats for healthy skin & coat
  • Immune support treats for cats
  • Cat treats to help with hairballs
  • Cat treats for stomach health
  • Treats for cat urinary health

Are Cat Treats Healthy?

Cat treats can be healthy, but it depends on the type and quantity of the treat.

Some cat treats contain added sugar, artificial flavours, and preservatives which can be unhealthy in large amounts. It is best to choose natural, low-calorie treats and limit the amount given to prevent weight gain and promote overall health. Additionally, it is important to consider your cat's specific dietary needs and consult a veterinarian before introducing any new treats into your cat's diet.

Overall, with mindful choices and moderation, cat treats can be part of a healthy diet for your feline friend.

How Cat Treats Are Beneficial

Cat treats can serve a variety of purposes, including promoting dental health, providing mental stimulation, and reinforcing positive behaviours during training. They can also serve as a form of bonding between pet and owner.

Here are some benefits of giving treats to your cat:

Encouraging Good Behavior and Training

One of the main benefits of cat treats is that they can be used as a tool for training. If you want your cat to learn a new behaviour or trick, rewarding them with a treat after they complete the task can be a great way to motivate them.

Cat treats can also be helpful in encouraging good behaviour. If your cat is acting out, giving them a treat can help to calm them down and get them back on track.

Dental Care

Cats are known for having bad teeth, and one of the main ways to help with dental care is to give them cat treats. Cat treats help to remove plaque and tartar from the teeth, which can lead to cavities and other dental problems if left untreated. Giving your cat a few treats each day can help keep its teeth healthy and sparkling.

However, brushing your cat's teeth regularly and taking them for dental checkups at the vet is still important. Cat treats are a great way to help keep their teeth healthy, but they can't replace regular brushing and checkups.

Food for Picky Cats

Many cat owners will tell you that their feline friends are notoriously picky eaters. They often have a very specific list of foods they'll eat and refuse to touch anything else. So, it can be tough to find something that your cat will enjoy, and that's also good for them.

Cat treats can be an excellent option for picky cats. They offer a variety of flavours and textures that cats love, and they're also packed with nutrients that are good for their health. Plus, giving your cat treats can help keep them motivated to eat their regular meals.

If your cat is a picky eater, try introducing them to a variety of different cat treats until you find one they love. And be sure to keep a stash of treats in your fridge or pantry, so you always have something on hand when your kitty gets a case of the munchies.

Giving Medication or Supplements In a Palatable Way

Sometimes, it can be a struggle to get your cat to take their medication. Many cats are smart and sneaky, and they'll do everything to avoid taking their pills. But using cat treats as a way to disguise the medication can be a helpful solution.

By hiding the pill in a tasty treat, your cat won't even realise they're taking their medicine and will happily gobble it up.

Bonding and Affection With Your Cat

Cat treats are a great way to bond with your furry friend and show them affection. Giving your cat a treat can make them feel loved and appreciated, and it's also a fun activity for both you and your kitty.

How to Pick the Perfect Treat for Your Cat

When looking for the perfect treat for your cat, consider their dietary needs and any medical issues they may have. Also, check the ingredients list to ensure there are no harmful additives or fillers. And lastly, make sure your cat enjoys the treat - if they leave it untouched or spit it out, try a different flavour or type next time.

You can buy various healthy cat treats depending on your feline friend's reasoning for needing one, their diet, and their medical history. A few types of these are:

Training treats: These are small, often hard snacks that are meant to be given as a reward for good behaviour. They are usually low in calories and fat and can come in a variety of flavours.

Soft treats: These are meant to be gentle on your cat's teeth and digestive system and are often made from easy-to-digest ingredients like poultry or fish.

Crunchy or hard treats: These are your standard cat treats that I recommend for adult cats with healthy teeth.

Dental treats: As the name suggests, these treats are specifically designed to help keep your cat's teeth healthy and clean. They are often harder than other types of cat snacks and come in a variety of flavours.

Weight management treats: If your cat needs to lose a few pounds, there are special treats available that will help them do so in a healthy way. These snacks are typically lower in calories and fat than other cat treats.

Hemp infused treats:  These types of treats are often recommended for older cats or those with chronic health conditions.

Dehydrated or freeze-dried:  These treats are made from raw, natural ingredients and are often high in protein. They come in various forms, including chunks, flakes, or strips.

Homemade treats: Homemade cat treats are a great way to ensure that your feline friend gets the best and healthiest snack possible. They are also a lot cheaper than buying store-bought treats and can be made with ingredients you likely have in your kitchen already.

What Treats Are Good For Your Cats

Not all cat treats are created equal! Some are healthier than others, so it's important to research before buying anything.

Homemade treats are often the healthiest option for cats, as you can control the ingredients and ensure they align with your cat's needs

In general, it's a good idea to stick with treats that are low in sugar and high in protein. Some good options include freeze-dried meat or fish, canned tuna or salmon, or cooked chicken or turkey. Avoid giving your cat too many processed snacks, such as cookies or biscuits, as these tend to be high in sugar and unhealthy fats.

Providing variety in their treats, such as mixing vegetables like baby carrots or green beans, can also keep your feline friend happy and healthy.

Good treats options for your cats include:

  • Small pieces of cooked meat or fish
  • Tuna, cooked or canned
  • Chicken or turkey cooked
  • Salmon, cooked or canned
  • Lean beef cuts, cooked
  • Baby carrots
  • Cat grass and catnip

What Should Be Avoided As A Treat For Your Cats

Many cat owners show their affection for cats by feeding them table scraps or food from their own hands. However, there are actually some foods that can be harmful or even toxic for them. Here are a few items to avoid giving as treats:

  • Chocolate - contains theobromine, which can cause vomiting and heart problems in cats
  • Grapes and raisins - can lead to kidney failure
  • Onions and garlic - can cause anemia
  • Xylitol (a common sugar substitute) - can cause liver failure
  • Coffee
  • Raw dough

How Often You Should Give Treats to Your Cats

It's hard to believe, but cats need to be monitored for their calorie intake, not for quantity. Most cat foods on the market are designed to give cats both the calories and nutrients they require.

However, treats are generally only meant to taste good and don't offer many health benefits. This means that if your cat is eating a lot of treats, they're not getting the nutrients they need and are at risk for obesity or other health problems.

It's best to limit treats to no more than 10% of your cat's daily calorie intake. This means if your cat needs 200 calories a day, it should only have 20 calories from treats. It's important to consider the calorie count of each treat and stick to the recommended serving size to ensure that your cat isn't overindulging. It's also best to space out cat treats throughout the day rather than feeding them all at once.

It's also important to monitor how your cat responds to treats. If they seem disinterested or unenthusiastic, try offering a different type of cat treat or reducing the frequency of treats.

Can It Be Harmful To Give Your Cat Too Many Treats?

Giving your cat too many treats can lead to weight gain and obesity, which can in turn lead to health issues such as diabetes and joint problems.

What are Hemp Cat Treats?

Hemp cat treats are a newer addition to the world of feline nutrition and known for its calming and anti-anxiety effects.

Hemp treats have many potential health benefits for cats, including reducing inflammation and anxiety, as well as providing pain relief. This may help to explain why so many pet owners are turning to hemp products as a natural way to treat their animals' medical conditions.

It's important to note that hemp cat treats do not contain tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound. So, these treats will not have any intoxicating effects on your cat.

However, it's still crucial to consult with your veterinarian before giving your cat any type of treat, as they may interact with any medication your cat is currently taking.

What Are The Benefits Of Hemp Cat Treats?

The benefits of hemp cat treats include:

Reducing stress and anxiety:  Hemp oil has been known to have anti-anxiety and calming effects, making it a great option for cats who struggle with anxiety or behavioural issues.

Pain relief: The anti-inflammatory properties of hemp may provide relief from painful conditions such as arthritis or joint pain.

Improving skin and coat health: Hemp is rich in essential fatty acids, which may be able to improve your cat's skin and coat health.

Boosting the immune system: Hemp has a high concentration of antioxidants, which could help to boost your cat's immune system and protect against disease.

Anti-inflammatory properties:  It may help to reduce inflammation and provide relief from conditions such as arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease.

Natural and holistic treatment option:  Hemp is a natural and holistic treatment option that may be able to provide relief from a variety of ailments without the potential side effects of traditional medications.

As always, it is important to consult with your veterinarian before giving hemp treats or any other supplement to your cat. But for many kitties, hemp treats can be a valuable addition to their overall wellness plan. Give them a try and see how your furry friend responds!

FAQs for Cat Treats

Is it OK to give your cat treats every day?

It is not recommended to give your cat treats every day as it can lead to weight gain and other health issues.

Do cats prefer soft or crunchy treats?

This can vary from cat to cat, but most cats generally prefer soft treats. However, offering a variety of textures can be helpful for keeping your cat engaged and interested in their treats.

Do cats really need treats?

Treats can be a fun and enjoyable way to bond with your cat, but they are not necessary for their overall health and well-being. It is important to still provide your cat with a balanced diet and plenty of playtime and attention.

Are hemp treats safe for cats?

Yes, hemp treats are safe for cats.  Hemp oil is a non-psychoactive and does not contain enough THC to affect cats.

Conclusion

Treats should be just that - a treat and not a substitute for regular meals. Keeping your cat on a balanced diet is crucial to its overall health and well-being. So while it may be tempting to give them multiple treats a day, it's important to resist the urge and stick to a healthy routine for your furry friend.

When buying healthy cat treats, always make sure to check the ingredients list and nutritional information. Avoid artificial flavours and preservatives and opt for natural and organic options when possible. Also, remember to only give treats in moderation and as a supplement to your cat's main diet.

Overall, there are plenty of options for healthy cat treats that cater to various needs. Be sure to check our Hemp Pet’s Hemp Infused Fish Treats. Happy snacking!


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