Giving your pet a treat is one of the simplest ways to say “I love you,” from a crunchy biscuit for good behavior or a chewy snack just because. Here’s the catch, though: treats can silently add extra calories and fillers to your pet’s diet, contributing to weight gain and nutritional imbalances. Stoneridge Animal Hospital wants pet owners in Edmond to treat with intention. Let’s look at why treats can be tricky, and how to offer healthier alternatives without losing the joy.

The Pet Treat Calorie Creep Is Real

Many commercial treats are calorie-dense and nutrient-light. A single dog biscuit might contain the same number of calories as a small meal, especially for smaller breeds. Cats are at risk too when high-fat snacks are handed out freely.

Treats should be very little of your pet’s total daily calories. If you're unsure what that looks like, ask your veterinarian to look at the current diet of your pet versus what you should be feeding them.

There are plenty of low-calorie, nutrient-dense treats that pets love! Look for treats made with single ingredients like dehydrated chicken, sweet potato, or salmon. Or, get creative and make your own with pet-safe ingredients!

Some Treats Can Disrupt Diet Balance

Pets with health conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or allergies may react poorly to common ingredients found in treats, like artificial preservatives, grains, or protein sources not suited for their dietary plan.

Stick with snacks approved by a veterinarian, especially if your pet is on a prescription diet. Even one “wrong” treat can throw off progress or trigger symptoms.

“People Food” For Pets Is a Slippery Slope

Feeding your pet from your plate may feel harmless, but fatty foods like bacon, cheese, or fried chicken can lead to pancreatitis, gastrointestinal upset, and long-term weight gain. Many human snacks also contain toxic ingredients like xylitol, chocolate, or garlic.
Instead of table food, offer pet-safe produce at times when you’re not eating in order to discourage begging.

Pet Treats as Tools

Treats are powerful training aids, but they should be given with purpose. Instead of handing out snacks randomly, use treats on occasion to reinforce good behavior or encourage healthy habits like tooth brushing or vet visits. If you’re handing out treats frequently, talk to your veterinarian during your pet’s annual wellness visit. Bring along pictures of the treat labels as well as pet food labels to give the vet a better idea of what your pet eats.

Nutritional Guidance for Pets in Edmond, OK

Treats can be part of a healthy lifestyle for your pet. You just have to be mindful of what, when, and how much. Build a treat routine that supports your pet’s health while still celebrating their wins (and their cuteness!) Stoneridge Animal Hospital offers veterinary nutritional guidance in Edmond for cats, dogs, and exotic pets from Oklahoma City, Witcher, Edmond, and neighboring Oklahoma areas. Schedule a nutritional consultation at Stoneridge Animal Hospital.