Dogs and cats love treats. Whether you are handing them out as way to display affection or using them as a training aid, your pet will always look forward to a tasty treat. Giving your dog or cat too many treats could lead to an overweight pet which could lead to health problems. Therefore, treats should be given as a reward.
How much treats should a dog or cat be given? This all depends on your pet’s level of activity, age and size. You should consult with your veterinarian before you incorporate treats as part of your pet’s diet. As a rule of thumb, treats should only make up 10% of a dog’s or a cat’s daily caloric intake.
Vegetables and Fruits as Treats for Dogs – it is okay to give your dog small carrots, green beans and even some broccoli: they’ll supply your dog with vitamins and minerals, and they hardly have any calories. For fruits, you can give your dog banana slices, berries, watermelon and apple slices provide you remove the seeds. Avoid giving your dog onions, grapes, raisins, chocolate or anything with caffeine. While harmless to humans, these foods are toxic to dogs. Also, avoid giving your dog bones, antlers, or hooves.
Natural Treats for Cats – You can feed your cat small bits of poultry, meat, fish, liver or eggs as treats just keep in mind that it doesn’t replace your cat’s regular meal. Like dogs, raisins, grapes and onions are to be avoided as well as salt, tea, and alcohol.
Ready-to-Eat Treats – there a lot of healthy treats on the market that are not only a tasty snack but are formulated to help keep your pet healthy. Just remember to give them sparingly.
Nutro Crunchy Treats w/Real Mixed Berries for Dogs are all natural and made with whole grains, real blueberries, cranberries, and cherries. They do not contain wheat, corn, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
VetCrafted Multi-Vitamin Soft Chews for Dogs are specially formulated for growing or aging dogs. They provide all the daily vitamins, minerals and anti-oxidants dogs need for healthy bones, tissue and overall good health. In easy to administer soft chews so your dog thinks it’s getting a treat.
CET Dental Chews for dogs are a great tasting and effective way to help keep your dog’s breath fresh and teeth clean. Made of beef rawhide strips with a dual enzyme formula to prevent the buildup of plaque and bacteria, enhance and activate a naturally occurring oral defense mechanism.
Dog supplements address various health issues such as heart support, immune support, and joint support, and can be given as a treat.
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Grain Free Cat Treats a healthy, all-natural snack for cats of all ages. Made with real chicken, duck, and 100% grain free, this nutritious treat contain no by-products, artificial flavors or preservatives. Great for a reward or a treat. Your cat will love snacking on these soft, moist treats.
Purr-Fect Dairy Cat Treats are made with real milk, yogurt, and whey, and they are free of corn meal, added grains, and artificial colors or flavors. Available in delicious bite-sized chews your cats will love.
Feline Greenies Dental Treats for cats is formulated and clinically proven to reduce tartar buildup that can cause bad breath. As a treat between meals, Feline Greenies work like a little toothbrush to scrub your cat’s teeth.
Cat Supplements, like dog supplements, are formulated to support a cat’s heart, immune system, joints, kidney, liver, skin conditions and shedding issues.
In summary, pets love treats. However, an excessive amount of treats could lead to obesity in dogs and cats. As a general rule, your pet’s intake of treats should not exceed 10% of its daily calorie intake. Homemade treats are ideal since it allows you to control the quality and quantity of foods you give your pet. There are various healthy treats on the market that are delicious and nutritious. Read the labels to make sure they are high in protein, rich in vitamins, minerals, and low in fat. Also, you can give your pets supplements instead of treats to ensure their health and nutrition needs are being met.
Do you have favorite treat you like to give your pets?
Share it with us in the comments section.
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