Simplicitylabs

Cat treats can be worth it, as they serve as rewards for good behavior, act as aids in training, and can help strengthen the cat’s responsiveness in critical situations.

Many high-quality treats also offer health benefits, such as dental care or added nutrients. However, excessive treats can lead to obesity and other health issues, so portion control is essential.

Ultimately, the value of cat treats depends on the specific treats, your cat’s dietary needs, and how they fit into your overall pet care routine. Meet your vet for guidance on the best treats for your cat, and also try baking some cat treats at home.

Keep your feline’s health in mind and consider being equipped with cat insurance so you can handle any health emergencies more effectively. Contemplate purchasing a policy because pet insurance costs can be much lesser than potentially hefty vet costs you may have to deal with during unplanned vet visits.

In the meantime, try these lip-smacking cat treat recipes at home!

Homemade cat treat recipes

Homemade cat treats provide a healthier, more personalized, and budget-friendly way to reward your feline friend while ensuring their well-being, however, they should be served in moderation, so why not prepare some for your feline friend?

#1 Tuna treats

Ingredients

1/2 cup canned tuna (in water, drained)

1 cup whole wheat flour

1 egg

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Combine the tuna, flour, and egg in a food processor until a dough forms.
• Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into small shapes.
• Place the treats on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-12 minutes until they turn golden brown.
• Let them cool before serving.

#2 Chicken and catnip treats

Ingredients

1/2 cup cooked chicken, shredded

1/4 cup chicken broth (unsalted)

1 cup oat flour

1 tbsp dried catnip

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Blend the shredded chicken, chicken broth, and dried catnip in a food processor.
• Add the oat flour and mix until a dough forms.
• Roll out the dough, cut into small shapes, and place them on a baking sheet.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes until it is crispy. Allow them to cool before offering them to your cat.

#3 Salmon treats

Ingredients

1/2 cup canned salmon (undrained)

1 cup whole wheat flour

1 egg

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Blend the canned salmon, whole wheat flour, and egg in a food processor until a dough forms.
• Roll out the dough, cut into small shapes, and place them on a baking sheet.
• Bake for about 10-12 minutes until they’re firm. Let them cool before serving.

#4 Cheesy treats

Ingredients

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup whole wheat flour

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1/4 cup plain yogurt

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Combine cheddar cheese, whole wheat flour, and Parmesan cheese in a food processor.
• Add plain yogurt and blend until a dough forms.
• Roll out the dough, cut into small shapes, and place them on a baking sheet.
• Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until it’s golden brown. Cool them before serving.

#5 Sweet potato treats

Ingredients

1 small sweet potato, cooked and mashed

1 cup oat flour

1 egg

Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Combine the mashed sweet potato, oat flour, and egg to form a dough.
• Roll out the dough, cut into small shapes, and place them on a baking sheet.
• Bake for about 20-25 minutes until they’re firm. Allow them to cool before offering them to your cat.

Store any homemade cat treats in an airtight container to keep them fresh for your feline companion.

Although homemade treats allow pet owners to control the ingredients, ensuring that the treats are free from artificial additives, preservatives, and fillers, which can be unhealthy for cats, you should still consider being equipped with cat insurance. Pet insurance costs can be more affordable than unexpected vet bills during medical emergencies,  which is why you should consider purchasing a policy.

As devoted dog caregivers, we continuously seek new and efficient methods to ensure the happiness and overall welfare of our beloved companions. This entails promoting their mental well-being through consistent mental stimulation and addressing issues like elevated stress or anxiety. The dog lick mat is an uncomplicated and cost-effective addition to the realm of canine mental stimulation.

While you can address superficial issues with the help of a lick mat, deeper issues may require medical intervention. If your pooch has been restless, contact your vet for a complete health examination. At the same time, consider being equipped with pet insurance NZ so you have a medical backup to handle unanticipated vet costs more effectively.

Contemplate purchasing the best pet insurance so your furry pet is assured of timely medical care during challenging health situations and medical emergencies with minor economic hassle. In the meantime, read this article to learn how a lick mat can help your pooch calm down.

Lick mats

Rubber/silicone textured dog lick mats are designed with little pockets. The crevices on these mats allow for spreading your pet pup’s preferred soft, spreadable treat. By licking the mat’s surface, your pup engages its tongue to access the delightful reward. This activity will have a soothing influence on your pupper and keeps it engaged and amused.

The endorphins (natural chemicals) released during the licking activity induce a sense of tranquility and euphoria. This surge of happiness can assist furry babies in adapting more easily to challenging circumstances they may encounter. Canines in distress often lick their paws and tummies excessively, leading to fur loss and skin conditions; a lick mat can help avoid such self-harming activities.

Lick mat types

Various designs of lick mats have emerged to cater to different scenarios. Here are some of the commonly available commercial options –

1.Basic lick mats

They are made of flat rubber/silicone in attractive shapes, usually square/rectangular, textures and designs. However, some companies incorporate creative and fun elements into lick mats, making them more appealing to four-legged babies.

2.Lick bowls

Their unique design allows your pupper to lick its favorite treats while enjoying the tactile stimulation provided by the rounded, textured bowl surface. Besides, many lick bowls can be turned inside out to transform into a textured cone, offering an additional interactive experience for your dog.

3.Suction cups

They are lick mats designed with suction cups strategically placed on the back, making them ideal for distractions while bathing your poochie. All you may need to do is to attach them to the tub/shower wall to keep your pet occupied while you wash them.

Lick mats can help redirect excessive licking behaviors and prevent paw or stomach irritation. They can help slow down eating, promote better digestion, tackle boredom, and keep pets physically and mentally active. Also, they can be used during grooming or vet visits to distract and comfort dogs.

However, note that stress and anxiety can also stem from the pain and discomfort experienced by puppies due to underlying health issues. Meet your vet for the right guidance and medical assistance. Simultaneously consider being equipped with pet insurance in NZ so that unplanned vet costs are more manageable. Contemplate purchasing the best pet insurance so your furry baby has comprehensive health coverage at all times.