Treats to skip and treats to share with your pet! 

Sharing is caring…but not all treats are created equal. Of course you love your pet and want to share treats with them, but many pet treats—and human foods that we share—can be unhealthy, unsafe, can cause dietary upset, cracked teeth or can be a choking hazard. This article will provide you with tips on treats to avoid and treats that you can definitely share!

Avoid Sharing These Treats

1. Raw foods. Raw foods have become popular in recent years, but the risks of raw diets are well documented. Both home-prepared and commercial raw treats may contain high quantities of harmful bacteria, potentially leading to minor or major health upsets. Additionally, there exists a contamination risk to immune-compromised, seniors or young children in your home.
2. Bones, hooves and antlers. These items are so hard that they can crack or break teeth! If fragments are ingested, choking, puncturing or blockage of the esophagus or intestine can result.
3. High calorie and high fat treats. There are many human foods that we like to share with our pets, but the calorie and fat content of these treats can be high. Not only can feeding excessive amounts lead to obesity, but can also lead to a painful condition called pancreatitis too. Foods such as peanut butter, cheddar or cream cheese are best used only when a high-value or very tasty treat is needed (veterinary visits, giving medication, trimming nails). Even some commercial products such as bully sticks and some varieties of pill pockets should be avoided. Always check the calorie content when purchasing prepared treats.
4. Pigs’ ears and rawhide. These items are not recommended. Rawhide is made from animal skin and is often treated with potentially harmful chemicals. Pigs’ ears may also be chemically treated, are very fatty and may be contaminated with harmful bacteria. These products can also cause intestinal blockage.

Definitely Share These Treats (in moderation)

1. Low calorie treats. There are loads of low-calorie treats in your home that you can safely share (in moderation) with your pet. Cooked pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) or sweet potato are excellent low-calorie and high fiber treats that can be frozen into cubes for a refreshing treat or given by the tablespoon.
2. Dental friendly snacks. As mentioned above, you want to avoid anything too hard. While daily brushing and regularly scheduled dental cleanings are a must for healthy teeth and gums, crunchy fruits and veggies such as carrot and apple can help scrape food off your pet’s teeth. Dental chews of high-quality ingredients are another good option for treats, as are specifically designed dental diets—yes, you can feed your pet one diet and provide dental diet kibble as a treat!
3. Fruits and veggies. Most fresh veggies and fruits can be given to your pet. They can be offered raw or cooked in the case of vegetables without any seasoning, butter or oil. Vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, celery, cucumber and green beans, and fruits such as apple, blueberries, pineapple and raspberries are all good options. (Remember to remove cores, seeds, stems and peels first. For fruits, make sure to avoid grapes, raisins and currants.)

You don’t need to feel bad about sharing low-calorie treats with your pet—they can be given with the same end result as caloric treats—a happy pet! Remember, treats shouldn’t make up any more than 5% of your pet’s daily caloric intake, so keep portions small!

Does your pet beg for treats? Find out why! >>