Enjoy Treats in Moderation
Last week Anders asked a video question on the vet blog. Here it is again in case you missed it.
I am reminded of an aphorism: all things should be enjoyed in moderation, except for moderation itself, which should be enjoyed in excess.
The good news, Tailer, is that there is nothing wrong with an occasional treat here and there. The bad news is that it’s generally not a good idea for any creature to exist solely on treats.
Unless the nutrition information for the treats specifically states that they provide complete and balanced nutrition, it is safe to assume that they do not. Feeding nothing but treats could lead to nutritional deficiencies. Some treats are very high in carbohydrates–some experts believe this predisposes cats to diabetes. Excess treats also put some cats at risk of obesity (although it is clear from the video that Tailer’s weight is fine).
Anders, I recommend that you encourage Tailer to eat more of his regular food. Use the treats only as treats.
You have questions. 
I’d read that treats should make up no more than 10% of a dog’s diet. Not sure if that applies to cats.
I also feel that just because a bag of treats says that it’s nutritionally complete, doesn’t necessarily mean that it is.
Dr. Barchas – thanks for the response – I will work with Tailer–effective IMMEDIATELY–on breaking his addiction.
WE PURROMISE!
Anders,
Too bad tailer is not like my Forest. He corrected the issue for me. Everytime he got his temptations treats he would vomit like 5 minutes later. Since I don’t particularly like cleaning up vomit, I gave the treats to a friend and had him go cold turkey on the treats.
When I have the extra cash I do buy Greenies pill pockets, which my guys love and don’t vomit after but they are like 100 time the cost of temptations so that really becomes a treat for them.
[...] This cute guy’s owner obviously didn’t hear that cats should enjoy treats in moderation. [...]
[...] This cute guy’s owner obviously didn’t hear that cats should enjoy treats in moderation. [...]