How many treats can my pet have? As pet owners we love spoiling our cats and dogs with treats and food they will enjoy. You might be using treats whilst training your puppy or dog, hiding them around the house to keep them mentally stimulated or as a reward for good behaviour. Those treats can add up if you’re not keeping check of how many you’re giving your pets. How many treats can I give my cat or dog? The number of treats you should give your cat or dog depends on various factors, including the type of treats, your cat’s size, age, and overall health. Treats should make up 10% or less of your pet’s daily calorie intake, as a general guide. What can I do to make sure I’m giving the correct number of treats? Check any packaging of the treats for feeding recommendations based on your pet’s weight. Treats should be given in moderation to avoid overfeeding, which can lead to an increase in weight and potential health issues. It’s essential to consider treats as part of an overall balanced diet and they should not replace a balanced and nutritionally complete diet. Always take note of how many treats your pet is having around their daily food allocation, as it may be more than you think. Speak to your vet about the appropriate number of treats for your pet. They can provide personalised advice based on your cat’s health condition and dietary needs. Your vet can also help you to use treats for training and when to stop using them. What do I need to consider when selecting treats for my pet? When selecting treats, consider the following: Size and calories: ensure the treat size is appropriate for your pet’s breed and size. Be mindful of the treat’s calories, especially if your pet is on a specific diet or weight management plan. Ingredients: look for treats with high-quality ingredients and avoid treats with excessive additives, preservatives, or fillers. Health considerations: if your pet has specific health concerns or dietary restrictions, choose treats that align with their needs. Speak to your vet if you’re unsure. Allergies: be aware of any allergies your pet may have and choose treats that are safe for them. Pet care advice when you need it the most. If your pet is unwell our 24/7 advice service may help save you an unnecessary trip to the vet. Speak to a vet or vet nurse by phone, chat, and video. Our pet care service also offers behavioural and nutritional support, to help you take care of your pet. Learn more about our petconnect service Do you need pet insurance? We understand being a pet parent can be tough, especially if your pet becomes ill or gets injured. It’s important to consider pet insurance if you have a pet, as cover can help cover the cost of vet fees should your cat or dog need to visit the vet. Compare our insurance plans and get a quote through our website using the following link. Get a quote for your pet