Roundup: All-Natural Treats for Cats

We live in a world where food temptation is always lurking—from sugary sweets to processed fast foods, and everything in between. With so many options, it can be hard to curb cravings and opt for healthier choices to stay on the right track. Fortunately, when it comes to your pet’s diet, pet parents have full control of what their furry companions eat. And although there are plenty of options, which can make the selection process a bit overwhelming, there are no pesky cravings to get in the way of keeping your four-legged loved one healthy. This makes choosing what is best for your pet entirely up to you. Your cat relies on you to do your homework and use proper judgement when selecting the best treats suited for his specific needs. But don’t worry—we’re here to help you make the right choices for your fuzzy friend.

Go Organic

Pets love eating treats—especially cats! When it comes to pet nutrition and healthy cat treats, it’s important to apply the same commonsense knowledge you would when purchasing human food. When seeking the right cat treat for your four-legged family member, going organic is certainly a step in the right direction, as natural ingredients are less likely to contain unnecessary food fillers and contaminants. According to Dr. Michael Dym, VMD of Wellington, FL, “Recent developments have stressed more evolutionary appropriate diets for our feline friends. In the veterinary community, it has become widely accepted that when processed, carbohydrate-rich and mainly dry kibble diets are fed exclusively to cats, there are significant increases in the occurrence of conditions such as feline lower urinary tract disease, diabetes, obesity and intestinal track distress. Therefore, stressing a meat-based, low-carb, high-moisture diet [is] the way to go for long-term health in felines.” Castor & Pollux Organix Chicken Flavor Organic Cat Treats are a protein-packed, low-calorie option that contain 95% organic ingredients, with organic chicken being first in line. With only one calorie per treat and no chemical pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, artificial preservatives, added growth hormones or antibiotics, these all-natural cat treats are the perfect option for a frequent and tasty bite-size reward.

Soft Cat Treats

Focusing on proper cat nutrition when searching for the right natural cat treats for your furry family member is essential in keeping your kitty healthy, happy and thriving. When considering healthy cat treats that are made with simple ingredients, be sure to read the product label on the packaging to ensure the elements are recognizable and easily understood. For pets that prefer a softer treat option, Zuke’s Natural Purrz Tender Chicken Recipe Cat Treats are a great, low-calorie snack that will keep your kitty companion purring. Made with tender chicken and no artificial colors, flavors or by-products, this delicious option contains cranberry to support urinary tract health as well as vitamins and minerals to keep your cat feeling his best while giving you peace of mind.

Grain-Free

Just like humans, some animals have food sensitivities and allergies that should be noted when looking for a cat treat. “It is important to look for treats that are low in or free of starch or sugars [and] have a low grain content,” says Dym. “High protein, whole, meat-based snacks [are] often in a freeze-dried form [and] seem to be the best option. Snacks without wheat, molasses or sugar will be less likely to aggravate [any] medical conditions [and] for similar reasons, cat treats should also be free of artificial flavors and additives.” Wellness Kittles Grain-Free Chicken & Cranberries Recipe Crunchy Cat Treats are a health-conscious and low-calorie option made from whole food ingredients like chicken, cranberries and blueberries. These grain-free treats are easy on the tummy and made with no meat by-products, wheat, corn, soy or artificial flavors, colors or preservatives. The treat’s crunchy texture helps clean the teeth while providing your kitty with a nutrient-rich snack to support his overall health.

Selecting the right cat treat for your furry companion is a privilege, as your kitty relies on you to ensure his health and longevity. Although the variety of cat treat options available today can certainly be overwhelming, more options means more choices for healthy, natural and preservative-free cat treats for you to choose from. Remember, for cats with potential food allergies or sensitivities, be sure to consult your veterinarian before making any drastic changes to your pet’s diet. By feeding your cat healthy treats and giving him the love and attention he deserves, your kitty will be set for success to feel his best inside and out.