‘What to Eat’ and ‘What to Avoid’

When it comes to treating your pets, knowing what’s safe and healthy is crucial. We all want to spoil our cats and dogs with tasty snacks, but it’s important to understand which foods can benefit their health and which ones might be harmful. Whether you’re looking to give your furry friends a treat during training, reward them for good behaviour, or simply show them some love, this guide will help you navigate the do’s and don’ts of dog and cat treats.

Why Treats Are Important for Pets

First, let’s talk about why treats are more than just tasty rewards. For both dogs and cats, treats can play an important role in their overall health and wellbeing:

• Training Rewards: Treats are an essential tool when it comes to training your dog or cat. Positive reinforcement with snacks encourages good behaviour, whether it’s during house training, teaching commands, or curbing bad habits.
• Bonding Time: Sharing treats with your pets strengthens the bond between you. It’s a way to show affection and communicate with your furry friend that they’re doing a great job.
• Health Benefits: Many treats are designed with added nutrients to support health; some promote dental hygiene; others help with joint care or digestion.

However, not all treats are created equal. The quality, ingredients, and portion size all matter when it comes to choosing the right treats for your dog or cat.

Safe and Healthy Treats for Dogs

When choosing treats for dogs, look for options that are low in fat and high in protein, vitamins, and minerals. Natural, wholesome ingredients are always a better choice over highly processed, sugary snacks.

Here are some great treat options for dogs:

1. Dog-Specific Treats

Many pet stores offer a wide range of dog treats that are designed specifically for their needs. These treats often contain ingredients that promote health benefits, such as dental chews that help clean your dog’s teeth or soft treats fortified with glucosamine for joint health. Always check the ingredient list to ensure there are no artificial additives or harmful preservatives.

2. Fruits and Vegetables

Believe it or not, some fruits and vegetables are great snacks for dogs! They’re low in calories, packed with vitamins, and can add a crunchy texture your dog will love. Here are some of the safest fruits and veg options:

• Carrots: A fantastic low-calorie snack that’s great for your dog’s teeth.
• Blueberries: These are loaded with antioxidants and make a perfect bite-sized snack.
• Apples: Apples (without the seeds) are high in fibre and vitamins A and C. Just be sure to remove the core and seeds.
• Sweet Potatoes: Dehydrated sweet potato slices make an excellent chewy treat that’s high in fibre and vitamin A.
• Green Beans: These are low-calorie and safe, making them a great choice for dogs on a diet.

3. Lean Meats

Cooked chicken, turkey, and lean beef can be great treats for dogs if they’re cooked without seasonings or sauces. These meats are protein-packed and can be cut into bite-sized pieces for easy snacking. Avoid giving your dog any cooked bones, as these can splinter and cause choking or digestive issues.

Safe and Healthy Treats for Cats

Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they need a diet primarily made up of meat. While dogs can eat a wider range of foods, cats are more restricted in what’s safe and beneficial for them. Their treats should be high in protein and low in carbohydrates.

Here are some great treat options for your feline friend:

1. Cat-Specific Treats

Just like with dogs, choosing treats specifically designed for cats is always a good starting point. At Pipkin and Bella, we recommend natural, grain-free cat treats, which are easier on your cat’s digestive system. Many cat treats come in tasty flavours like chicken, fish, or turkey, perfect for their carnivorous needs.

2. Meat

Cats thrive on meat, so offering small pieces of cooked chicken, turkey, or beef can be a great treat. Just like with dogs, be sure to avoid any seasoning or bones. Some cat owners even provide freeze-dried meat treats, which retain the nutritional value without requiring refrigeration.

3. Fish

Fish is another protein-packed treat that cats love. Small amounts of cooked, unseasoned fish like salmon or tuna can be a nutritious snack. However, avoid giving too much fish, as some varieties (like tuna) can be high in mercury, which could lead to health issues over time.

4. Eggs

Cooked eggs are a protein-rich treat that many cats enjoy. Scrambled or hard-boiled eggs are both fine, but be sure they’re fully cooked, as raw eggs carry the risk of salmonella.

What Not to Feed Dogs and Cats

While it’s tempting to share your food with your pets, many common human foods are dangerous, or even toxic, to dogs and cats. Should any of the following be ingested by your pet contact your Vet practice:

1. Chocolate

Chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic to both dogs and cats. Even small amounts can cause serious symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, and in severe cases, death.

2. Grapes and Raisins

Even though grapes and raisins are healthy for humans, they are extremely toxic to dogs and can cause kidney failure. There’s still some debate about whether these are toxic to cats, but it’s best to avoid them for both pets.

3. Onions and Garlic

Onions, garlic, and any other members of the allium family (like leeks and chives) can be very harmful to both dogs and cats. These vegetables contain compounds that can damage red blood cells, leading to anaemia.

4. Alcohol and Caffeine

Both alcohol and caffeine are incredibly toxic to pets. Even small amounts can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea, difficulty breathing, and even death in severe cases. Make sure to keep all alcoholic drinks, coffee, and tea out of reach.

5. Xylitol (Artificial Sweeteners)

Xylitol is a sugar substitute found in many sugar-free products, such as gum, candy, and even some peanut butters. It is extremely toxic to dogs, causing a rapid release of insulin that can lead to low blood sugar, seizures, and even liver failure. It’s best to avoid any foods that contain artificial sweeteners when treating your dog or cat.

6. Bones

While dogs love bones, not all bones are safe for them. Cooked bones can splinter and cause blockages or tears in the digestive tract. Stick to raw, meaty bones that are large enough to avoid choking hazards.

7. Dairy Products

Although many dogs and cats enjoy cheese or milk, dairy products can be difficult for them to digest. Most adult cats and dogs are lactose intolerant, so it’s best to limit dairy treats to prevent gastrointestinal upset.

Homemade Treats for Dogs and Cats

If you’re looking to spoil your pets with something homemade, there are plenty of simple and healthy treat recipes you can try at home. Here are a couple of ideas:

Homemade Dog Treats: Peanut Butter Biscuits

• Ingredients: 2 cups whole wheat flour, 1/2 cup peanut butter (make sure it’s xylitol-free), 2 eggs, 1/4 cup water.
• Instructions: Mix all ingredients in a bowl, roll out the dough, and cut into shapes. Bake at 180°C for 15-20 minutes until golden. Let them cool before serving.

Homemade Cat Treats: Tuna Bites

• Ingredients: 1 can of tuna in water (drained), 1 egg, 1 tablespoon whole wheat flour, 1 tablespoon catnip (optional).
• Instructions: Preheat your oven to 180°C. Blend all the ingredients into a dough, shape into small balls, and bake for 10-12 minutes. Cool and store in an airtight container.

How Often Should You Give Treats?

Treats should be given in moderation, as too many can lead to obesity and other health problems. In general, treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog or cat’s daily caloric intake.

For dogs, smaller, low-calorie treats are ideal during training, while larger chews can be given less frequently. Cats are often more finicky about treats, but offering them a few small, protein-rich snacks per day is a good way to keep them happy without overfeeding.

Summary

Treating your dog or cat is a wonderful way to show your love and bond with them. However, it’s important to ensure the treats you’re giving are safe, healthy, and beneficial. Stick to high-quality, natural treats from trusted sources like Pipkin and Bella, and always check for harmful ingredients before sharing snacks with your pets.

By choosing the right snacks and avoiding dangerous foods, you can keep your pets happy and healthy for years to come.