Let’s be honest, we love treating our pets. Giving an animal companion a treat makes us happy because it makes them happy. That excited tail wag or contented purr makes it hard to resist handing out one more. But as simple as treats may seem, they can quietly contribute to weight gain, digestive upset, and long-term health issues for cats and dogs. At SimpleVet Pet Hospital, we want to help you treat your pet… but the healthier way.
The Problem with Treats and Pets
Pet treats are often small in size but packed with calories. Some biscuits, jerky strips, and soft chews can be like the equivalent of a human eating a big candy bar. For smaller pets especially, this can quickly lead to obesity if not factored into their daily intake.
Problems with over-treating your pet can include:
- Unintended weight gain
- Nutritional imbalance
- Gastrointestinal upset
- Loss of interest in regular food
Even cat or dog treats labeled “healthy” can be misleading if they’re calorie-dense or overly processed.
Tips for Smarter Pet Treats
Tip #1: Follow the 10% Rule
Treats should make up no more than 10% of your pet’s total daily calories. For many dogs and cats, that’s just a few small pieces a day. Not sure what their daily intake should be? Just ask your veterinarian!
Tip #2: Choose Purposeful Treats
Dental chews, pet-safe vegetables, or joint-support snacks can offer added value beyond just taste. Look for options that support your pet’s health goals or supplement their regular nutrition.
Tip #3: Break Larger Treats into Smaller Pieces
Your pet won’t notice if their treat is half the size, especially during training or reward-based games. Smaller pieces stretch your supply and reduce calorie load.
Tip #4: Check Your Refrigerator
You may already have healthier alternatives to commercial pet treats in your pantry or fridge. Check out this guide from AAHA for healthy snacks for pets. Remember though, even healthy treats should still be given to pets in moderation.
When Treating Becomes a Concern
If your pet is gaining weight or refusing their regular meals in favor of treats, it’s time to reassess. Schedule a consultation or check-in with your vet during a wellness exam to review your pet’s diet and treat habits. A veterinarian can give you nutrition guidance that fits your lifestyle and your pet’s individual health needs. Bring along pictures of pet food labels so that the vet can look at them with you.
Veterinary Nutrition Consultations in Little Elm, TX
Treats can be a great way to bond with your pet, but they don’t have to compromise their health. With a few small changes, you can reward your pet in ways that keep them at a healthy weight. SimpleVet Pet Hospital has nutrition consultations for pets and veterinary weight management in Little Elm for cats and dogs from Frisco, Prosper, Aubrey, and neighboring Texas areas. Want help evaluating your pet’s treats? Schedule a pet nutrition consultation with SimpleVet Pet Hospital.