What makes a cat treat healthy?

Treats are a great way to provide enrichment for your cat and to bond with them. However, when it comes to choosing treats that are healthy for your cat, there are a few points to keep in mind to be sure your treat choice aligns with your individual pet’s needs:

• Moderation - The general rule is that 90% of your cat’s daily calorie intake should come from their complete and balanced food, and the remaining 10% of calories can come from treats and snacks. Did you know that 61% of pet cats are overweight or obese in the U.S.? Monitoring the calories in treats is key to managing your cat's weight and avoiding health issues. If your cat is overweight, consider a treat that is around two calories or less per treat.
• Ingredients - Be sure to read treats’ ingredient labels to make sure they’re made with nutritious, high-quality ingredients and don’t contain something your pet is sensitive to. Prioritize buying treats made with protein like chicken, turkey, beef or fish and avoid ones with artificial colors or flavors.
• Allergies - If your cat has allergies, be cautious with ingredients and consider single-ingredient treats. If your cat has a medical condition and/or is on a special food, it is important to check with your veterinary care team before feeding your cat treats, as certain ones may be unsafe based on your cat’s medical condition.

One last thought... if you're really having a difficult time finding the right treat, you could simply try using a portion of your cat’s regular food as treats. Some cats who are very food motivated won’t know the difference between a treat and their regular food. By choosing healthy, appropriate treats and feeding them in moderation, you can reward your cat while supporting their overall well-being!