Top 4 Tips for Choosing Cat Treats - Healthy & Tasty!
The primary cause of feline obesity is often an excessive intake of treats.
Excessive weight in cats can lead to issues such as degenerative joint disease, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, reduced lifespan, and a decline in overall quality of life.
However, this doesn't mean that cats should be deprived of treats. It's all about choosing the right type of pet snacks and determining the appropriate portion sizes that are beneficial to their health.
Here are four tips on how to treat your cat with snacks in a healthy way:
1. Opt for Small Meat Chunks or Strips
Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they require a substantial intake of animal protein for proper development. This translates to a diet rich in meat for them. Cats can digest meat efficiently, so when selecting freezedried treats, go for small pieces like beef strips or chicken chunks. This not only ensures they get the necessary nutrients but also provides an opportunity for you to engage in interactive playtime, fostering a closer bond.
2. Include Treats as Part of Their Daily Food Intake
It's essential for pet owners to adopt a consistent and measured feeding approach. This involves calculating the total daily food requirement for your cat, which includes treats. Regular interaction with your cat can help prevent overconsumption of calories and subsequent obesity. Treats should make up about 5% to 10% of their daily food intake.
The benefits of this method are numerous, and it only requires a bit of dedication from the pet owner.
3. Choose Snacks Rich in Animal Liver
Animal liver offers a nutritional profile that is perfectly suited to a cat's body needs, including essential nutrients like taurine and complex B vitamins. These are vital microelements that cats need, and since they are watersoluble, they can easily be deficient. A deficiency can lead to severe health issues.
4. Focus on FreezeDried Treats
Freezedried snacks are a great choice for cats, as they are high in protein, which is crucial for their growth. Offering these treats can be a healthy way to supplement their diet.
