Giving your pet a treat feels like second nature. Treats are a quick way to reward, comfort, or simply share love with your animal companion. But what if those little goodies are doing more harm than good? With National Pet Obesity Awareness Day in October, it’s a good time to take a closer look at those treat habits and explore healthier options. Country Club Veterinary Clinic is using this opportunity to talk about treats and how they can affect the health of cats and dogs.
The Problem with Treats
Treats might seem small, but they can pack a serious calorie punch, especially for smaller pets. Many commercial treats are high in fat or unnecessary fillers, and unlike meals, treats often go untracked. It’s easy to end up overfeeding your pet without even realizing it.
Pet obesity is a growing concern in the United States, affecting many dogs and cats. Extra weight can lead to serious health conditions like diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. Food is one of the most common contributors to weight gain in pets. Being mindful about what (and how much) you offer your pet can play a huge role in preventing obesity and supporting long-term wellness.
Top Mistakes Pet Owners Make with Treats
- Mistake #1: Overdoing It. Treats should not be given out all the time to your pet. With multiple treats a day (plus meals), it’s easy to exceed the amount your companion should actually be eating, especially if you’re not measuring portions.
- Mistake #2: Using Human Food as Rewards. A bit of cheese or a piece of bacon might seem harmless, but many human foods are too rich (or even toxic) for pets. Certain pets may even start refusing their formulated pet food if you don’t add human food to it, adding extra calories to their diet.
- Mistake #3: Choosing Based on Packaging, Not Ingredients. “Natural,” “organic,” or “grain-free” doesn’t always mean healthy. Many treats still contain artificial preservatives or excessive calories.
- Mistake #4: Using Treats for Every Behavior. It’s common to reach for the treat jar for every good deed, but over-reliance can turn treats from a reward into an expectation.
Should I Stop Giving My Pet Treats?
You don’t have to completely stop treating your pet for them to be healthy, but treats should be just that: an occasional “treat.” If you're unsure which treats are safe, how much is too much, or if your pet is overweight, talk to your veterinarian. Set up a nutrition consultation or bring up the topic during your pet’s annual wellness check-up. Sure, you can try to find healthy pet treats on your own, but a vet has years of experience and knows your specific pet’s medical history and nutritional needs. A great place to start is bringing in your pet’s current food and treat bags to look over labels together with your vet (or just take pictures of the labels!).
Guidance on Pet Nutrition in Lake Charles, LA
Treats are a wonderful way to bond with your pet, but like everything else, they’re best in moderation. By making thoughtful choices and adjusting for your pet’s needs, you can give treats while avoiding contributing to long-term health issues like obesity. Country Club Veterinary Clinic has veterinary nutrition consultations in Lake Charles for pets from Westlake, Sulphur, Lake Charles, and neighboring Louisiana areas. Want help choosing the best treats for your pet’s health and lifestyle? Schedule a nutrition consult at Country Club Veterinary Clinic.