Just because there are unlimited food and treat options for your cat at the pet food store, doesn’t mean all of them are the healthiest choice for feline health. In fact, many store bought cat food and treats contain hidden sugars, empty carbohydrates, and excess sodium all of which contribute to adverse health conditions like diabetes, liver and kidney issues, arthritis, and heart disease in cats. Plus, many owners over feed and over treat their furry friends. While in certain cases treats can be used to help train a cat or to reinforce good behavior. Too many cat treats and too much cat food can end in obesity and afore mentioned health conditions.

Here are a few rules to follow to keep cat meals and treats under control:

1. Treats are just that…treats
The term treat implies that it’s given only on special occasions. Yet many cat owners overdo it in the treat department, resulting in added pounds that contribute to kitty diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and more. According to the American Veterinary Association, treats should make up a mere 10% of any feline’s diet while a nutritious cat food should make up the remaining 90%. And that cat food should be filled with protein, healthy fats, and whole carbohydrates (i.e., brown rice). Just look at the label, a healthy cat food will list the protein first. 

2. No human food for kitty
Human food is not equivalent pet food for many reasons. That means even when kitty looks up at you with sad eyes and meows for a taste of your ice cream, you shouldn’t abide. You may think there’s no harm in giving your beloved pet a tiny piece of cheese, popcorn, or cracker, but you’d be mistaken. First, our bodies and stomachs require more calories than a kitty. So just a piece of cheese for you is quite a few more calories for a medium sized cat. In addition, there are many “people foods” that aren’t healthy for your cat to eat, such as raw eggs and meat, grapes, garlic, and onions (which are toxic), fruit with pits and bones your kitty could choke on. 

3. Non-food treats
You certainly do and should provide positive feedback when your cat visits the vet with no swats and stays off the kitchen table. However, there are more ways to show your appreciation other than just with treats. Bond with your kitty by offering pets, praise, and play as a means to show your happiness. For instance, most cats would love a round of laser pointer or catch the mouse. Just spending time and giving all of your attention to kitty is just as good as a treat, and it will keep kitty svelte and energized. 

4. Alternative cat treats
If your cat is say, a little plump in the rump, it may be time to talk to your vet about a calorie restrictive diet, with low fat cat foods and treats to help manage their weight safely. This may means establishing clear times for meals and moderating treats. You can still treat kitty with non-food treats, like cat grass or catnip, which most cats really love.