Cats are lovable pets, and it is only natural for us to want to share our snacks with our kitten friends. However, feline lovers must remember that our dietary and nutritional needs are pretty different from cats. So, what snacks do cats like?
While humans have an exhaustive list of treats to snack on, cats are pretty picky, and not all treats are suitable for their health.
What makes a snack healthy for cats?
You might consider lavishing your cats with delicious snacks to show love and affection.
However, you must note that not all snacks are healthy for cats. For example, experts say cat treats should contain more than 10% of the cat’s total calories consumed. The reason is that most snacks add just calories to a cat’s diet.
What snacks do cat like?
While your cat should eat a 100% complete and balanced food diet, there are healthy treats you can give your cats occasionally.
Here are a few snacks that your cat would love.
1. Canned fish
Canned fish is a delight for felines and is safe to offer a small amount periodically.
In addition, fish can serve as an enjoyable snack for cats.
Most cats find the smell of fish quite appealing, fueling their craving for it. Fish has a high nutritional content as it is a high source of protein, omega-3 acids, and vital nutrients for a healthy cat diet.
The cat’s digestive system is slow processing fish. So you must avoid feeding them raw fish. Some cats may have allergies to fish.
Look out for canned fish in water with no extra salt or other added additives that could harm cats.
2. Bananas
Bananas are safe for cats, and giving them once in a while is not a bad idea. You can offer bananas to your cat periodically unless your veterinarian says otherwise.
Cats do not easily digest banana peels, so ensure it is kept out of their reach. Begin with a small tasting and be on the lookout for any unusual reactions.
3. Cheese
Cheese makes up for a delicious snack for your cats. Many felines love cheese, and it is pretty understandable.
Cheese has an exquisite taste that makes them a thrill for cats. Although cheese is high in protein, it can upset your cat’s digestive system if ingested in large quantities.
Most cats are lactose intolerant, making it difficult to digest dairy products. However, be on the lookout for any reaction, and you can substitute it with a non-dairy cheese if your cat is lactose intolerant.
4. Eggs
Eggs are great snacks for cats. It is packed with protein and fats and is one occasional treat you can give your cat. However, a single egg is about 90 calories, so you must be mindful of how much egg you give your cat.
An average cat requires around 150- 200 calories daily, so you might want to avoid giving your cats more than a single egg portion.
Eggs account for one of the most widespread food allergens for cats. Therefore, you should immediately watch out for any reactions or symptoms and alert your veterinarian.
Raw eggs are not appropriate to feed your cats as they may contain harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli.
5. Green Beans
Green beans are another example of healthy snacks cats like. Although snacks are carnivores, they still crave healthy veggies like green beans.
You can use green beans as a healthy snack or include them in your cat’s traditional diet. Ensure you stick to fresh or frozen green beans.
The reason is that canned beans often have extra sodium laced in them. If you intend to use green beans for weight loss for your feline, consult your veterinary to draw out a medically approved plan.
6. Lean meat
Lean meat is an excellent choice if you want a great snack to share with your cat. Cats are meat lovers and a perfect addition to your cat’s diet. Meat also contains taurine, an essential amino acid cats need for optimal health.
Cooked beef, chicken, turkey, and lean deli meats with no seasoning are great snacks for cats. However, avoid giving your raw cat meat as it could make them sick.
7. Blueberries
Although cats lack sweet taste receptors, many enjoy blueberry because it offers something new. In addition, due to their wet texture and juiciness, your cat may find blueberries an exciting treat to snack on.
Blueberries are not considered a super food for cats. However, they contain antioxidants that are safe and healthy for cats. Therefore, blueberries do not form an essential part of your cat’s diet.
So you must be mindful of the quantity you give to your cats. Like other snacks, blueberries should make up no more than 10% of your cat’s daily calorie intake.
Tips for healthy snack feeding in cats
The following are healthy snack feeding tips for cats you can use;
- Moderation is vital: Cats may develop a habit of avoiding their food for snacks. As a result, ensure you feed them in moderate amounts.
- Discourage begging: Do not reward begging and avoid giving your cat a snack at the dinner table.
- Avoid toxic food: While you might want to share your food with your cat, you must avoid particular food that could be toxic to your cat. Onion, chocolate, alcohol, tea, and salt are some typical unhealthy foods you mustn’t feed your cat.
- Make your homemade snack: You can make your homemade snack by cooking small pieces of liver, fish, eggs, etc; or make cat patties.
Types of healthy snacks for cats
1. Fruitables cat treats
These treats for cats are packed with protein and free from animal by-products, wheat, soy, and corn. In addition, they contain less than 2 calories per treat, making them healthy for your feline friend.
Best of all, they are made with simple ingredients, real salmon, and savory protein flavors. Are you curious as to what snacks cats like? Then Fruitables cat treat is a great option!
2. Blue buffalo wilderness crunchy cat treats
Blue buffalo treats are made with real chicken and are grain-free. These healthy snacks contain only 1.5 calories and aren’t made with contain corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors. It has a soft and crunchy texture which makes it easy to chew.
Final Thoughts
Although cats are pretty picky in their choice of food, they love to snack on good treats. So, what snacks do cats like includes a variety of things such as vegetables, eggs, and even cheese
However, you must consider your cat’s health before giving them a treat.