Cats bring so much joy to our lives, and what better way to show our love than with treats they’ll adore? But not all treats are created equal. Choosing natural treats is a wonderful way to ensure your feline friend stays healthy and happy. Unlike processed options, natural treats are packed with nutrients and free from harmful additives. Today we take a look at ten irresistible natural treats your cat will love and you can make at home.

Why Natural Treats Are Best for Your Cat

Natural treats offer numerous benefits for your furry companion. They are free from artificial additives, making them easier to digest and safer for regular consumption. Additionally, they align more closely with a cat’s natural diet, providing essential nutrients for their overall wellbeing. However, it’s always important to consult your vet before introducing any new foods to your pet’s diet, especially if your cat has specific health concerns or allergies.

Top 10 Natural Treats Your Cat Will Love

Each of the following treats is not only natural but also packed with health benefits for your feline companion. Here’s a closer look at why your cat will love them and how to safely serve them:

1. Cooked Chicken

Benefits: High in protein and low in fat, cooked chicken is a fantastic treat for cats.

How to Serve: Boil or bake the chicken without any seasoning, and serve it shredded into small pieces.

2. Cooked Fish (e.g., Salmon or Tuna)

Benefits: Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, cooked fish supports a healthy coat and skin.

How to Serve: Ensure the fish is fully cooked, boneless, and unseasoned before offering it to your cat.

3. Plain Cooked Egg

Benefits: Eggs provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients for your cat.

How to Serve: Serve scrambled or boiled eggs without oil, butter, or salt.

4. Freeze-Dried Meat Treats

Benefits: These treats retain all the nutrients of fresh meat and are convenient to store.

How to Serve: Ensure the treats are 100% meat with no added ingredients, and serve them as is.

5. Catnip or Cat Grass

Benefits: Catnip stimulates natural play instincts, while cat grass aids digestion.

How to Serve: Offer fresh catnip leaves or grow a small pot of cat grass for your feline to nibble on.

6. Small Bits of Cheese

Benefits: Rich in calcium and protein, cheese can be a delightful treat for cats that tolerate dairy.

How to Serve: Serve tiny cubes or shredded pieces as an occasional treat.

7. Cooked Pumpkin or Sweet Potato

Benefits: High in fibre, these treats aid digestion and help with hairball control.

How to Serve: Cook and mash pumpkin or sweet potato, ensuring it’s free from spices, sugar, or salt.

8. Blueberries

Benefits: Packed with antioxidants and vitamins, blueberries are a healthy snack.

How to Serve: Offer fresh or frozen blueberries, cut in half to prevent choking.

9. Plain Yogurt

Benefits: Lactose-free plain yoghurt is a great source of probiotics, supporting gut health.

How to Serve: Serve a small spoonful as an occasional treat, ensuring it’s unsweetened and unflavoured.

10. Sardines in Water (No Salt)

Benefits: Sardines are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and healthy fats.

How to Serve: Choose sardines packed in water without added salt. Remove any bones and offer small pieces.

Safety Tips for Feeding Natural Treats

While natural treats are generally safer than processed options, it’s essential to keep a few safety tips in mind:

• Portion Control: Treats should not exceed 10% of your cat’s daily caloric intake to maintain a balanced diet.
• Monitor for Reactions: Always watch for signs of allergies or digestive upset when introducing a new treat.
• Avoid Harmful Foods: Certain foods like chocolate, onions, garlic, and grapes are toxic to cats and should be avoided entirely.

Treating your cat doesn’t have to mean compromising their health. You can keep your feline friend happy and healthy by choosing natural, wholesome options. From cooked chicken to blueberries, the ten treats outlined here are sure to delight your cat while providing essential nutrients.

What natural treats does your cat love? Share your favourites in the comments below!