Like dogs, your feline pet also loves treats. However, you should always remember that treats are additional sources of calories that can significantly increase your cat’s caloric intake each day. Here are some tips to help your cat enjoy treats without piling on the pounds.

• Limit the amount of treats that your cat receives. Your kitty should realize that treats are not ordinary components of their diet. Treats should be viewed as novelty food by offering only two or three treats per week.
• Treats may contain ingredients that may be toxic to your cats. Some of these include grapes, tea, onions, chocolate, raisins, and alcohol.
• Never give in to your cat’s begging. Like dogs, begging in cats is an acquired and reinforced behavior. When you tolerate begging, you encourage the behavior by handing out treats especially when you are carried away by your cat’s persistent begging.    

For more information about your cat's dietary needs visit a Cedar Rapids veterinarian, check out this link.