Every cat deserves the occasional treat. Whether you're rewarding good behaviour, strengthening your bond, or simply spoiling your feline friend, treats can be a fun addition to your cat's routine.
The key is choosing the right treats and feeding them in moderation. Here's everything Australian cat owners need to know about treating their cats safely.
Are Cat Treats Good for Cats?
Yes - when fed correctly, cat treats can be part of a healthy, balanced diet.
Treats can be used to:
- Reward positive behaviour
- Encourage shy or nervous cats
- Help with training and enrichment
- Strengthen the bond between you and your cat
- Support certain health needs with specialised functional treats
Remember that treats should complement your cat's regular diet, not replace it. Your cat's main meals should always provide complete and balanced nutrition.
How Many Treats Should You Give Your Cat?
The biggest mistake many owners make is giving too many treats.
As a general rule, treats should make up no more than 10% of your cat's daily calorie intake, with around 5% being an even better target for maintaining a healthy weight.
Overfeeding treats can lead to:
- Weight gain
- Obesity
- Poor nutrition
- Fussy eating habits
- Reduced interest in regular meals
If your cat constantly asks for treats, don't be fooled - they're often experts at convincing us they're hungry!
When Should You Give Cat Treats?
Treats are most effective when they're used with purpose.
Great times to offer treats include:
- After positive behaviour
- During training sessions
- While grooming or nail trimming
- After taking medication
- Inside puzzle toys for enrichment
- As an occasional reward during the day
Using treats strategically helps your cat associate positive experiences with handling, training and new situations.
Choosing the Best Cat Treats
Not all cat treats are created equal. The best option depends on your cat's age, lifestyle and individual health needs.
Here are some popular types to consider.
Dental Treats
Dental disease is one of the most common health issues seen in cats.
Dental treats are specially designed to help reduce plaque and tartar build-up while freshening your cat's breath. Although they don't replace regular dental care or veterinary check-ups, they can be a useful addition to your cat's oral health routine.
Natural and Healthy Treats
If you're looking for a healthier option, choose treats made with quality ingredients that are high in animal protein and free from unnecessary fillers.
Many Australian pet owners also prefer treats that are:
- Low in salt
- Lower in fat
- Made with natural ingredients
- Free from artificial colours and flavours
These make an excellent everyday reward when fed in moderation.
Hairball Treats
Hairballs are common, especially in long-haired cats.
Hairball treats often contain added fibre to help move swallowed hair through the digestive system, reducing the likelihood of hairballs developing.
Urinary Health Treats
Some treats are formulated to help support urinary tract health.
While they won't treat urinary disease, they may help support cats that are prone to urinary issues as part of an overall veterinary-recommended nutrition plan.
If your cat is showing signs of urinary discomfort, always seek veterinary advice promptly.
Skin and Coat Treats
Treats enriched with Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids can help maintain healthy skin and a glossy coat.
They're particularly useful for cats with dry skin or dull coats, especially during seasonal coat changes.
Can Kittens Have Treats?
Yes, but only once they're eating solid food and the treats are specifically designed for kittens.
Young kittens have different nutritional needs, so treats should only be offered occasionally and in small amounts. Their main source of nutrition should always be a complete kitten food.
Foods You Should Never Give Your Cat
While commercial cat treats are formulated to be safe, many human foods are not.
Avoid feeding your cat:
- Chocolate
- Onions
- Garlic
- Grapes and raisins
- Alcohol
- Foods containing xylitol
- Cooked bones
If you're ever unsure whether a food is safe, it's best not to offer it.
The Bottom Line
Cat treats are a wonderful way to reward, train and bond with your feline companion when used sensibly.
Choose quality treats that suit your cat's needs, feed them in moderation, and remember that a balanced diet should always come first.
Whether you're looking for dental treats, natural rewards, freeze-dried snacks or functional health treats, there's an option to suit every cat.
Browse the extensive range of cat treats at Kellyville Pets, or visit us in-store and our friendly team can help you choose the perfect treat for your feline friend.
