As pet owners, we want our cats to enjoy delicious treats without compromising their health. Commercial cat treats often contain artificial ingredients and fillers that may not be the best for your cat’s health. Lucky for you, you can make plenty of healthy and tasty alternatives at home.
In this blog, I’ll explore what makes a cat treat healthy, share eight tips for keeping your cat in top shape, and provide recipes for nine wholesome treats your cat will love. 🥬 🥑 👇🏻
What Makes a Cat Treat Healthy?
A healthy cat treat should have high-quality protein, as cats are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet should primarily consist of meat. It should also be low in carbohydrates, as cats do not require a lot of carbs, and too many can lead to obesity and other health issues.
Limited ingredients are preferable, as fewer ingredients reduce the risk of allergies and digestive issues. Additionally, avoid artificial additives like preservatives, colors, and flavors that can be harmful to your cat.
8 Treat Tips for a Healthy Cat:
Moderation is Key: Treats should not exceed 10% of your cat’s daily caloric intake.
Monitor for Allergies: Introduce new treats slowly and watch for any signs of allergies.
Keep it Simple: Use whole, unprocessed ingredients whenever possible.
Stay Hydrated: Make sure your cat has plenty of water, especially when feeding dry treats.
Balance Nutrition: Make treats complement your cat’s regular diet, focusing on protein-rich options.
Pay Attention to Portion Sizes: Avoid overfeeding by keeping treat portions small.
Use Treats for Training: Add treats to your training routine or use them to reinforce good behavior.
Consult Your Veterinarian: Before introducing any new treats, ensure that they are appropriate for your cat’s specific dietary needs.
Freeze-dried Meat Treats
Ingredients:
1 pound of raw meat (chicken, turkey, or beef)
Instructions:
Cut the meat into small, bite-sized pieces.
Spread the pieces on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Freeze the meat for 2-3 hours.
Transfer the frozen meat to a food dehydrator and dehydrate for 24 hours or until fully dried.
Store in an airtight container.
Cantaloupe Balls
Ingredients:
1 ripe Cantaloupe
Instructions:
Cut the cantaloupe in half and remove the seeds.
Use a melon baller to scoop out small balls of cantaloupe.
Serve fresh or freeze the balls for a refreshing treat.
Cheese Bits
Ingredients:
1 cup of low-fat cheese
Instructions:
Cut the cheese into small, cat-friendly cubes.
Serve in moderation as an occasional treat.
Steamed Broccoli Florets
Ingredients:
1 cup of broccoli florets
Instructions:
Steam the broccoli florets until they are tender.
Allow them to cool completely.
Offer a few florets as a crunchy treat.
Scrambled Eggs
Ingredients:
1 egg
Instructions:
Beat the egg in a bowl.
Cook the egg in a non-stick pan over medium heat until fully cooked.
Let the scrambled egg cool before serving small pieces to your cat.
Pumpkin Puree
Ingredients:
1 cup of canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)
Instructions:
Spoon the pumpkin puree into ice cube trays.
Freeze until solid.
Pop out the cubes and store them in an airtight container in the freezer.
Serve a small cube as a treat.
Cooked Fish
Ingredients:
1 piece of fish (salmon or whitefish)
Instructions:
Cook the fish thoroughly, either by baking or steaming.
Let it cool completely.
Remove any bones and skin.
Break the fish into small, manageable pieces before serving.
Dehydrated Sweet Potato
Ingredients:
1 large sweet potato
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 250°F (120°C).
Slice the sweet potato into thin rounds.
Place the slices on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Bake for 2-3 hours, turning halfway through, until fully dehydrated.
Let them cool completely before serving.
Pumpkin Oat Cookies
Ingredients:
1/2 cup of canned pumpkin
1 cup of oats
1 egg
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Mix all the ingredients in a bowl until well combined.
Drop small spoonfuls of the mixture onto a baking sheet.
Flatten each spoonful slightly.
Bake for 15-20 minutes or until firm.
Let the cookies cool completely before serving.
FAQs
Can I give my cat treats every day?
You can give your cat treats daily, but moderation is crucial. Treats should not exceed 10% of your cat’s daily caloric intake.
What if my cat has an allergic reaction to the treat?
If you notice any signs of an allergic reaction, such as itching, swelling, or gastrointestinal issues, stop giving the treatment immediately and consult your veterinarian.
Are there any ingredients I should avoid?
Avoid ingredients like onions, garlic, chocolate, and anything with artificial additives, preservatives, or excessive salt and sugar, as they can harm cats.
Can I store homemade cat treats, and how long do they last?
Yes, you can store homemade cat treats. Freeze-dried treats and dehydrated sweet potatoes can last for several weeks in an airtight container. Other treats, like scrambled eggs and cooked fish, should be stored in the refrigerator and used within a few days.
Conclusion
Providing your cat with healthy treats can be a rewarding experience for both you and your feline friend. These homemade treats are not only nutritious but also allow you to control the ingredients, making sure your cat gets the best.
Always remember to introduce new treats gradually and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Enjoy treating your cat with these delicious and wholesome recipes! ✌🏻 🤸🏻♀️
