Sharing a treat with your dog or cat is a wonderful way to bond and show them love. Treats and chews are not only a tasty reward but also a useful tool for reinforcing good behavior, keeping pets busy, and supporting training efforts. While treats can be a positive part of their routine, it’s easy to give a little extra while we’re spending more time at home.
However, overindulging in treats can have unintended health effects, especially when given frequently. To ensure your pet stays healthy and happy, it's important to balance treats with their daily meals and choose them wisely. Here are some simple do’s and don’ts to help you treat your pet responsibly while at home this summer.
Smart Treating Tips to Keep Your Pet Healthy and Happy
Keep Your Pet’s Treats in Check
Just like we try to keep our snacking in check, it’s important to limit treats for our pets, too. Treats and chews should be given in moderation, making up no more than 10 percent of your pet’s daily calories. To stay on track with healthy treating, take a moment to review the feeding guidelines on the treat packaging.
Here are a few tips to help with moderation:
- Stick to recommended portion sizes on the treat label
- Use treats as occasional rewards, not a staple food source
- Track the number of treats given each day to avoid overfeeding
Making treats a “special occasion” rather than a routine snack helps support your pet’s long-term health. Remember, balanced feeding keeps their weight in check and promotes better overall wellness, so they can be active and happy by your side.
Give Treats as Special Rewards
Your pet’s regular food provides all the essential nutrients they need, unlike treats, which are meant for enjoyment rather than nutrition. A pet food labeled as “complete and balanced” is formulated to include vital vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fats for each stage of your pet’s life. These nutrients are essential to keep body functions like vision, immune health, and energy levels in top shape.
Here’s why pet food is essential compared to treats:
- Complete and balanced meals include 40+ essential nutrients
- Nutrients in pet food support metabolism, immunity, and healthy organs
- Pet food is designed for your pet’s specific life stage and health needs
Remember, treats can be fun rewards, but they don’t replace the value of a nutritious meal. Providing balanced meals not only fuels your pet’s energy but also keeps their internal systems working properly, helping them enjoy a long and vibrant life.
Skip the Table Scraps for Your Pet’s Health
While those pleading puppy eyes can be hard to resist, it’s best not to share table scraps with your pet. Some human foods can be dangerous, even deadly, to pets, including xylitol, a sweetener that’s common in gum, candy, and baked goods, which can cause blood sugar drops or even liver failure. Other foods, like onions, garlic, grapes, and fatty meats, can also harm your pet’s health.To keep your pet safe, avoid feeding them these foods:
- Xylitol (found in toothpaste, candy, gum)
- Onions, garlic, and avocado
- Grapes, raisins, and fatty meat trimmings
Choose Treats Wisely Based on Your Pet’s Needs
Selecting the right treats is just as important as managing how many they get. Different pets have unique needs, and choosing treats that match their dietary requirements can make a big difference in their health.
Here are some factors to consider when choosing treats for your pet:
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Look for treats specifically designed for your pet’s age and size
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Consider any dietary restrictions or allergies your pet may have
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Select treats with natural ingredients to avoid additives or fillers
Choosing high-quality, suitable treats for your pet ensures they’re enjoying a snack that supports their well-being. The right treats can be a delicious reward while helping maintain their overall health and happiness.
Keep Hydration in Mind with Chews and Treats
Treats and chews can be dehydrating for some pets, so ensuring they have access to water is key. Harder chews especially may leave pets feeling thirsty, and staying hydrated is essential for their digestion and health.
Keep these tips in mind to support hydration:
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Provide fresh water near your pet’s treat area
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Limit treats with high salt content, which can increase thirst
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Choose treats with moisture content for added hydration
Staying mindful of your pet’s hydration needs is a simple but effective way to keep them comfortable. It ensures that every treat moment is safe and satisfying, leaving them refreshed and ready for more play.
Rotate Treats to Keep Things Interesting
Just as variety keeps our meals interesting, pets also benefit from rotating their treats. Offering different types of treats can keep them engaged and excited, helping prevent boredom while treating them to new tastes and textures.
Consider these ways to rotate treats:
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Mix up flavors and textures to add variety to treat time
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Use puzzle treats or interactive chews for mental stimulation
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Alternate between store-bought and homemade treats for freshness
By varying their treats, you’re creating a more enjoyable experience that stimulates your pet’s senses. A little change now and then makes treats feel more special and helps keep their taste buds excited.
Check Treat Expiration Dates for Safety
Keeping an eye on expiration dates is essential when it comes to pet treats. Treats past their prime can lose nutrients and may even become harmful, especially if they contain preservatives or fats that go rancid.
Follow these steps to ensure treat freshness:
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Regularly check treat packages for expiration dates
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Store treats in a cool, dry place to maintain quality
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Discard any treats that have an unusual smell or appearance
Being mindful of treat expiration dates protects your pet from potential health issues. Fresh, high-quality treats ensure they’re getting the best in both flavor and nutrition, so you can reward them confidently and safely.
Conclusion
Our pets give us comfort and joy, making every day brighter even during challenging times. With a little extra care, from walks to cuddles, we can show them just how much they mean to us.
By adding treats responsibly, we keep their health on track while rewarding their companionship. Simple actions like these help ensure our pets stay happy, healthy, and deeply connected to us.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I give treats to my pet?
It’s best to give treats occasionally, not every day, and to keep treats at or below 10 percent of their daily caloric intake. Limiting treats helps prevent overfeeding, supports a balanced diet, and maintains your pet’s weight.
What are the best types of treats for training?
Small, low-calorie treats work best for training since you can give multiple rewards without adding too many extra calories. Look for soft, bite-sized treats that are easy for your pet to chew and can be quickly consumed during training sessions.
Are there any specific ingredients to avoid in pet treats?
Avoid treats with artificial colors, flavors, or excessive fillers like corn and soy, which may not offer nutritional benefits. Opt for treats with natural ingredients, especially if your pet has known allergies or sensitivities.
Can I make homemade treats for my pet?
Yes, homemade treats can be a healthy and fun option as long as you use pet-safe ingredients. Be cautious with certain foods like garlic, onions, and chocolate, which are toxic to pets; consult a pet-safe recipe if you’re unsure.
How do I know if a treat is safe for my pet’s specific needs?
Consider your pet’s age, weight, and any health conditions or allergies when choosing treats, and consult your vet if you’re unsure. Reading labels carefully helps you select treats that align with your pet’s dietary needs and keeps them happy and healthy.