FAQ: Treats for cats

Treats with catnip usually contain only a small amount, so the effect is weaker than sniffing dried catnip. It is more a flavour and scent extra, and the treats count towards the daily amount like any others.

Liver is very aromatic and popular with cats, but it is rich in vitamin A, and too much of it is harmful. Give liver treats in moderation, within the amount on the pack, and do not make them the main everyday treat.

They differ in taste, smell and fat: fish treats are often more aromatic, duck is fattier and chicken is the most common meat. Sensitive cats sometimes do well with a less common meat they have not eaten before.

Fish or salmon oil made for cats is a supplement, not a treat, and should be given according to the pack instructions. Too much fat can upset digestion, so longer-term use is worth discussing with a vet.

Lactose-free milk for cats is a treat with calories, so it can only be given daily in the small amount stated on the pack. It does not replace water and should not become the main drink.

Cats often get too many treats because each family member gives a few. It helps to set aside the day's treat allowance in a small container each morning, which everyone takes from, and to give nothing beyond it.

Yes, under supervision it is a good chance for a child to interact calmly with the cat. Show them how to place the treat on a flat palm or on the floor and remind them that the cat needs time to approach and must not be pestered.

After surgery or anaesthesia, follow the vet's instructions on when and what the cat may eat. Once eating is allowed, soft or lickable treats can help with giving medicine and calming the cat, but the amount should be small.

While its teeth are changing, a kitten often likes to chew, so soft chew treats or chew toys can help. Hard treats may be uncomfortable at that time, and swollen or bleeding gums are a reason to see a vet.

Hold a treat above the cat's head and move it slowly backwards so it naturally sits, then reward it at that moment. After a few repetitions add a word, and count the treats in the daily allowance.

Hold a treat in a closed hand low near the cat: when it touches your hand with a paw, open it straight away and give the treat. Later add a word and gradually raise your hand higher.

An automatic dispenser with a timer or phone control can add variety to a cat's day while the owners are away. Set an amount that does not exceed the daily allowance and clean the device regularly.

Check the energy value per treat or per 100 grams on the pack and multiply by how much the cat gets per day. Subtract those calories from the main food portion so the total matches the cat's needs.

Some cats grab treats greedily or clumsily and catch fingers by accident. Place the treat on an open palm or the floor and give it only when the cat is calm.

An occasional cat treat usually does a dog no harm, but cat products tend to be higher in protein and fat. Keep cat treats out of the dog's reach, especially if the dog tends to gain weight or has a sensitive stomach.

Close the opened tube tightly or move the contents to a closed container and keep it in the fridge if the manufacturer says so. Use up the rest within a short time, usually within a day, or throw it away.

The treat amount is linked to the cat's daily calorie needs, which depend on its weight. The table makes it easier to choose how much a small, medium or large cat can have so treats do not exceed their share of the diet.

Such a cat often prefers soft or lickable treats with a texture similar to its usual food. Dry crunchy treats can still be an interesting change if the cat accepts them.

Reduce gradually: break treats into smaller pieces and replace some with kibble from the usual dry food or with play. A cat values the attention and the moment of reward, so a smaller piece usually satisfies it.

In a new place, treats given calmly and at the usual times help a cat relax sooner and link the new rooms with pleasant things. For the first few days it helps to give the cat one quiet room with its own things.