Your companion cat deserves the best, so you feed her a healthy diet and take great care of her. The treats you give her should also be delicious and help keep her healthy. There’s a variety of low-protein treats you can give your cat.
Pre-Made Treats
Since cats require a high level of protein in their diets, and since they like the taste of meat and other proteins, most recipes you’ll find online and treats available in pet stores contain fish, chicken, eggs, cheese and other proteins. When shopping for low-protein treats, choose ones that have a fish or chicken flavoring instead of fish or chicken as the main ingredient. That way, Kitty will love the taste but still be getting a lower protein treat. Make sure to avoid treats with lots of fillers, which aren’t good for your feline friend.
Go Green
Delicious and nutritious options for low-protein cat snacks are catnip and thoroughly washed greens, served fresh, cooked or dried. Although cats are carnivorous, the natural carbohydrates in greens are good for them and delicious. Try serving up small portions of steamed broccoli, asparagus, green beans, or baked carrots or winter squash to see what your companion cat likes best.
Cats go crazy for catnip, which is a fantastic and low-protein treat. Give your cat some fresh catnip by itself or dried inside a toy. Try baking a couple of tablespoons of catnip in cookie or muffin recipes (minus the sugar) or steep it in a cup of hot water for a unique kitty tea.
Time for Treats
Giving your feline friend low-protein treats is not only good for her health, it’s a wonderful way to spend time and bond with her. Associate treats with exercise to keep her at a healthy weight or give them to her for following directions (such as coming inside when called) to reinforce positive behavior. Giving her treats after an activity she may not like, such as claw trimming or baths, will help her associate negative experiences with something positive. To keep Kitty healthy, give her treats two or three times per week and make sure treats make up no more than ten percent of her total diet.
Foods to Avoid
Avoid giving your cat some foods that are difficult to digest or that may be poisonous to her. Never give her anything containing salt or caffeine, alcoholic beverages or (non-catnip) tea. And keep raisins, grapes and onions out of reach as well.
Always check with your veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet, medication, or physical activity routines. This information is not a substitute for a vet’s opinion.
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Writer Bio
Jennafer Martin has more than 14 years of experience in writing, editing and brand management for literary, business-to-business and consumer publications. She is a writer for Zoe Soul Spa and "Pets in the City" magazine.