Best Cat Treats

by Patrick

February 6th, 2019 12:00 AM

Best Cat Treats

It’s no secret that pet parents love to spoil their fur babies. If you are proudly owned by a cat, you already know how much our feline companions love treats – bribing them with yummy foods might be the only way you get them to do what you want them to… or at least something close to it. While cat treats can be both a fantastic incentive for when you’re trying to train your cat and a tool for pampering your precious pet, not all of them should be the staple in your kitty’s diet.

The concerns and issues with cat treats don’t differ much as those with snacks in the human diet. With the pet obesity on the constant rise, treats, along with kibble and other cat foods, are under much scrutiny, and with good reason. Many treats are extremely high in calories, or are made from generally unhealthy ingredients: the type of treats you decide on will make a world of difference for your feline friend. Naturally, the type of cat treats you should opt for are those that contain wholesome ingredients, don’t affect your pet’s weight, and taste good to them to boot.

Sure, this might seem like an impossible task, but with the help of PetGuide.com’s feline-tastic experts, what seemed like an ordeal will become effortless. Our extensive resources on cat treats include in-depth reviews of the best treats for cats, as well as buying guides that will make shopping much easier, for seasoned and beginner cat parents alike. Whether you’re unsure about what types of cat treats are there, to begin with, or just which type is the healthiest and most suitable for your cat’s unique needs, we’ve got you covered.

Best Cat Treats
Features
Available At
Temptations Treats for Cats, 30 Ounces

- 100% nutritionally complete and balanced for adult cat maintenance.

- Has a unique pocket shape that is crunchy on the outside and scrumptiously soft and creamy on the inside.

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Feline Greenies Dental Treats

- Crunchy texture and unique shape clean teeth and reduce tartar, while also serving as a cat breath freshener.

- Natural formula with added vitamins, minerals, and taurine to offer complete nutrition, along with optimal dental care.

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Purina Friskies Party Mix Treasure Crunch

- Salmon, Shrimp & Tuna Flavors.

- 20 Oz Resealable Container.

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NABA Churu Lickable Creamy Purée

- Made with real deep sea tuna or farm-raised chicken in savory flavors cats love.

- High in moisture.

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Purina DentaLife

- Porous texture helps to reduce tartar buildup.

- Helps clean all sides of teeth.

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Read the Labels

To make the difference between bad cat treats and good treats for cats, you’ll need to carefully read the labels. Just because some brands tout their products as organic, grain-free, natural, or healthy, it doesn’t mean that they actually are true! Or, for that matter, that things like grain-free or natural make any difference for your four-legged companion. When reading cat treat labels, you need to check for any artificial dyes, preservatives or flavors that could be bad for your cat, and focus on brands who offer well-balanced ingredients that fit your cat’s nutritive needs in the first place – which means meat-based protein, healthy fats, and some complex carbs.

Of course, those yummy and healthy ingredients can come in many different packages – from crunchy biscuit-like treats for cats to mushy cat treats and everything in between. Some of the most popular treats, both among cat parents and their finicky felines, include kibble-like hard treats, dental treats for cats (great for freshening breath and improving oral hygiene!), soft and moist treats, as well as the slightly higher priced but fantastic freeze-dried and raw treats. PetGuide.com has extensively covered all of the mentioned types of cat treats, so you won’t have to wonder where you can find them, what are their ingredients, or which types are best for your own pet.

Choosing the Right Cat Treats

Personal preferences of your pampered kitten aside, different types of treats are ideal for different types of cats. For instance, soft, moist treats are a good choice for senior cats who don’t have the teeth to crush the kibble treats or kittens who are just being weaned of their mother’s milk and need some incentive to give it up. In the same manner, for cats who just can’t be made to endure the process of brushing teeth, sneaking dental treats is a wonderful option to keep those fangs clean and plaque-free.

It seems that almost every day there’s a new treat on the market, each claiming to be tastier or healthier than those before it. Our staff at PetGuide.com is always in the loop with the pet industry trends, which means you’ll be the first one to know about fresh new cat treats that are worth your money. For instance, in the last few years, raw treats for cats and freeze-dried and dehydrated treats have been all the rage among pet parents. Does that mean that the higher price tag is worth it and that these treats are the healthiest option for your cat? PetGuide.com has all the answers you need.

Ingredients in Cat Treats

In addition to the information about the best cat treats, we’ll ensure you know which ingredients, brands, or human foods you need to steer clear of. Whether you’re treating your kitty in order to motivate them during training or simply because you want to spoil them a bit, you have to make sure that the treats you’re giving them are actually healthy for them – or, at the very least, that your habit of treating your cat is not doing them harm. Cats are known as particularly sensitive to various foods, so making sure that their treats don’t contain any of them is an absolute must! Not to mention that, even if some ingredients seem safe at first glance, they actually do harm to your pet in the long run, causing obesity and serious health issues with it. Learn how to recognize cheap fillers and dangerous ingredients in your cat’s treats without having to spend hours deciphering all labels in the cat food section.

While there are some rules of thumb when it comes to giving cat treats, not all kitties will have the same nutritive needs and health concerns to start with, so there are no cookie cutter solutions. Luckily, PetGuide.com knows that each pet is unique in its own way, which is why we offer guides on buying food and treats for cats of all ages, health conditions, breeds, and more. Instead of relying on generic tips and advice, choose the best for your pet- our information lets you find treats that are perfectly tailored to your pet alone. After all, doesn’t your feline royal deserves it?

Patrick

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And even if you find a good location that fits the bill, be prepared that, if you live in an area with extreme weather, where the winters are in subzero temperatures and summers get really hot, you will have to get your rabbit inside during these days – a barn, shed, or a garage can be an alternative if you’re not able to bring them inside your home.The most common choice for an outdoor rabbit enclosure is a standard rabbit hutch, usually made from wood that’s untreated on the inside, with a weatherproof finish on the outside where the rabbits can’t get to it. These types of enclosures should be sturdy, raised from the ground to keep dampness and cold at bay, and properly secured to keep out potential predators that could seriously harm or kill your pet. ConclusionWhether you keep your bunny outside or they live inside your home with you, you need to make sure that they have a proper enclosure. 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Rabbits are known as timid, shy creatures – which doesn’t surprise when you factor in the fact that they are prey animals. However, that’s not to say that all rabbits shy away from human contact, especially when properly socialized and given time to acclimate to their new life in your family. Many rabbits are naturally more laid-back and sociable, and when that is combined with patience and time from the owner’s side, you’re bound to make fast friends with your pet bunny. Of course, it helps a lot to know which rabbit breeds are more friendly than others, if you are looking to create a strong bond with your rabbit and have an affectionate, outgoing companion without having to wait for ages for the bunny to relax around you. To help you make the right choice, we’ve rounded up 10 friendliest rabbit breeds out there!

Spinach and Zucchini Dog Treat Recipe

There will be no upturned snouts when you give your pupper this Spinach and Zucchini dog treat. On top of being delicious, these veggies are packed with goodness. Zucchini is full of antioxidants, which are plant compounds that help protect from free radicals (these can damage your dog’s cells and DNA and speed up the aging process). And spinach boosts the immune system, increases energy levels, and prevents some types of cancer - not bad for a leafy green! Plus, this dog treat recipe includes pureed pumpkin and carrot, to give your cookies a little more bang for their buck.Ingredients:1 zucchini, peeled and shredded1 cup spinach, chopped1 carrot, peeled and shredded1 cup pumpkin puree1/4 cup peanut butter2 large eggs1/2 cup rolled oats3 cups whole wheat flourDirections:1. Preheat oven to 350° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.2. In a large bowl, add pumpkin puree, peanut butter, and eggs. Use an electric mixer on medium-high until well combined, about 1-2 minutes.3. Gradually add oats and 2 1/2 cups flour at low speed, beating until incorporated. Add an additional 1/4 cup flour at a time just until the dough is no longer sticky.4. Add carrot, zucchini, and spinach, beating just until incorporated.5. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough until it comes together. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Using cookie cutters, cut out shapes and place onto prepared baking sheet.6. Place in oven and bake until the edges are golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.7. Place treats on cooling racks for 2-3 hours.8. Place in airtight container and store in fridge or freezer.

Spain Passes New Law To Recognize Pets as Legal Family Members

Starting January 2022, Spain will legally recognize all animals as “sentient beings” with emotions rather than “property”, making sure that, in legal fights, the wellbeing of pets is considered above all else. Separation can be a messy business – even more so when there are pets involved. Unfortunately, pets are legally considered property in the United States (and most of the world, for that matter) so when you are going through a divorce, trying to get custody over your pets can become a nightmare from a legal perspective. After all, determining things like visitation rights and shared custody over something that law recognizes only as property can be tricky business – if at all possible. This is why Spain’s new law has pet owners all over the world hoping that they’ll soon see similar changes locally: on January 5th, 2022. Spain started legally recognizing pets as sentient beings, rather than property. What this means is that, in the case of legal fights where pets are involved, the court will consider the animal’s wellbeing when deciding who gets custody over the pet. Similarly, the legal change of status from property to sentient being also means that pets can no longer be abandoned, seized, or mortgaged. Their feelings and happiness are taken into account, so the outcome is the best possible for the pet – and not just a matter of outdated legalities. Even though the law has been passed only recently, there have already been instances where it could be applied in practice – a Spanish couple that went to a breakup sought legal action and they got joint custody over their dog. They weren’t married but dated for over a year and a half and couldn’t reach an agreement about who will get the dog after the split, so the courts ruled that they’ll become “co-caretakers” of their pet. The dog, named Panda, will stay for a month with each of the parents and the cost of medical care and other expenses will be split evenly between the former couple. The judge reasoned that, after living with both people for a year, Panda grew close to both of them and shouldn’t be denied the opportunity to spend time with both of the people he loves. Even though this law was 4 years in the making, Spain is not the first country to pass it. Germany, Switzerland, Austria, France, and Portugal all have laws in place that recognize animals as living sentient beings with emotions, so legal proceedings work towards their welfare. One can only hope that these legal changes won’t stop here and more and more countries will revise their laws in favor of the wellbeing of animals – we already consider them beloved family members, so now it’s time for the courts to do the same.

Adoptable Dog of the Week - Magoo

Tall, handsome, and loyal? Where do I sign? Our Adoptable Dog of the Week is Magoo, a 4 years old Great Dane from Salem, Oregon. This gorgeous guy is neutered, and his adoption fee also covers a microchip, vaccinations, and deworming, as well as some goodies such as a collar and leash, and a pet insurance trial. Magoo is good with smaller dogs, but big breeds can make him nervous. He hasn’t been tested around cats or children while in the shelter.Magoo’s TaleIf you want a pooch with a regal look and gentlemanly manners, Magoo is your guy. He does take a while to warm up to new people, but once he’s relaxed around you, he’ll show his affectionate, snuggly side. He’s a big dog with an even bigger heart! If you’re offering treats, all the better – he’ll take them slowly like the gentleman he is and you’ll earn a few points with him. Magoo is a giant breed dog and weighs 109 pounds, so he needs an experienced handler – he’s leash trained, but he can pull from time to time, and you have to be sure you can handle a big pooch like him tugging on the leash.Magoo gets along fine with smaller dogs and wouldn't mind sharing his new home with a petite canine roommate, but he can be a bit nervous around larger dogs, so if you already have a big breed, they might not be a perfect match. As he was picked up as a stray before being brought to the shelter, his rescuers don’t know how he gets along with children or cats, as he hasn’t had a chance to spend time around either. If Magoo sounds like the perfect fit for your family and lifestyle, contact Willamette Humane Society to learn more about him and the adoption process.

Gluten-Free Pumpkin Spice Dog Treats

The first leaf has fallen and so we’ve jumped on the Autumn bandwagon with our Gluten-Free Pumpkin Spice Dog Treats. Perfect for pooches with sensitivities, this fall favorite is gluten free. Plus, it comes packed with pureed pumpkin, which is amazing for a dog’s digestive system. On top of that, it contains of vitamins, such as vitamin A, E and C, as well as iron and potassium. But don’t dip one of these cookies in your pumpkin spice latte – these treats are for dogs only! Ingredients:2½ cups gluten free flour2 teaspoons cinnamon 1 teaspoon ginger1 cup pumpkin puree1/2 cup unsweetened apple sauce1 egg1 tablespoon vegetable or olive oilDirections:1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together oil, pumpkin, applesauce, and egg until smooth.2. Fold in the flour, cinnamon, and ginger with a spatula and then knead with your hands until the dough is thoroughly mixed.3. Shape dough into a couple disks and cover in plastic wrap.4. Chill dough overnight.5. Preheat oven to 325° F. Line cookie sheets with parchment paper.6. Roll dough out to a thickness of 1/4 inch between two pieces of parchment paper. Cut out shapes using a cookie cutter.7. Place cutouts on parchment lined cookie sheets.8. Place in oven and bake for 30 minutes.9. Remove from oven and let cool on cooling racks for 2-3 hours. 10. Place treats in an airtight containers and store in refrigerator or freezer.

Ukranian President Medals a Bomb-Sniffing Dog Named Patron

Dogs are man’s best friend and they seem to prove it day after day. One of the greatest examples of how dogs stick by our sides through thick and thin is Patron, a 2-year-old Jack Russell Terrier from Ukraine, who has sniffed out over 200 explosives since the beginning of Russian military operation in February, saving countless lives in the process. Funnily enough, the name Patron translates to “ammo” or “cartridge” in Ukrainian, so the name of this feisty little terrier seems to suit him just right. His efforts haven’t gone unnoticed, which is why president Volodymyr Zelensky awarded Patron a medal to recognize the life-saving work this pooch is doing. Patron’s owner received the Order of Courage III degree medal, and his courageous terrier was given the medal “For Dedicated Service” (and probably a couple of yummy treats to boot). The ceremony took place in presence of Canada’s prime minister Justin Trudeau, who was patting his pockets in search of treats to offer to the four-legged hero, but had to settle with clapping instead – Patron would have probably preferred some jerky or biscuits, but hey, at least he got a medal he can boast with at the dog park. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Патрон🇺🇦🧨 (@patron_dsns)And as if Patron wasn’t already cute enough, he completely charmed everybody when he managed to fall asleep during the press conference, causing a wave of “aawws” across the room – just look at this cute face!Glorious Ukrainian deminer Patron taking a nap during an interview pic.twitter.com/8ncF0JKS7R— Liubov Tsybulska (@TsybulskaLiubov) May 7, 2022When he’s not busy sniffing out landmines and saving lives, Patron likes to visit children at Okhmatdyt children’s hospital in Kyiv, putting smiles on the faces that need it the most. I think everyone can agree that’s one amazing pooch! Stratcom Center UA seems to agree, since they’ve tweeted that one day, his story must be turned into a movie, but for now, Patron remains a legit star in real life.

French Pit

French Pit Basics Here’s a unique designer breed that is all sorts of charming! When you take a look at the parent breeds, you might be confused at first, but the French Pit is full of surprises: the mix between a French Bulldog and the American Pit Bull Terrier proved to be a match made in heaven! Protective, loyal, energetic, and fun, these doggos can bring a lot of brightness and entertainment into any household. Moreover, they are great around kids and can be quite protective of their owners, making them a perfect addition to your family. Still, the French Pit might require some dedicated training, and needs owners that lead an active lifestyle. But even so, these dogs hold a lot of love that is aimed at breaking all stereotypes surrounding one of their parental breeds – Pitties. The French Pit has a sweet and affectionate temperament, balanced with their energetic and playful character. Origin The secrets of this crossbreed’s origins are hidden within its name. Although similar at first glance, the two parent breeds in this story are quite different: the French Bulldog and the American Pit Bull Terrier. While the mix might seem odd, the final result is more than great! And the secret to that success is in the shared origins of both breeds. The French Bulldog (contrary to its name) originated in England. Large at first, they were specifically “downsized” to become “Toy Bulldogs”, following an 1835 ban on dangerous bull baiting sports. From there, they ended up in the courts of France, where their popularity skyrocketed. Interestingly, the American Pit Bull Terrier also originates from the old English Bulldog breed. However, they diverted from them when a mix with the Terrier dogs was created. In time, the robust and muscular Pit Bull emerged, a dog created for purposes of “ratting” and dogfighting. Still, the two breeds grew different over time, especially in size. The mix between the two was unexpected, but it’s here nonetheless. No one knows for sure where and when the crossbreed first appeared, but it is likely that it came into existence in the 1990s. Following the success of Labradoodle, hybrid breeders created many new combinations. It is possible that an attempt to limit the aggressive tendencies of the Pit Bull with the goofiness of a French Bulldog led to the creation of the French Pit – an altogether successful result. Pedigree

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