Can Dogs Eat Cat Treats? Health Concerns Reviewed

Like all cat owners, we find a different kind of satisfaction in spoiling our furry companions with tasty treats. But if you’re a parent to both cats and dogs, you might have found yourself in a situation where dog treats are not readily available, but cat treats are.

It is natural to wonder if it's safe to share cat treats with our canine friends. While dogs can consume cat treats without immediate harm, it's best not to make a habit of it!

Curious about feeding your cat treats to your dog? Here, we will help you look into the reasons why you should exercise caution when considering sharing cat treats with your beloved canine companions!

Can Dogs Eat Cat Treats?

In short, yes, dogs can eat cat treats. But as the name suggests, these treats are made for cats with their nutritional needs in mind and not dogs. So, dogs should not consistently eat or be fed treats that are meant for cats.

There is a huge variety of  treats available for both species, but cat treats tend to be small, meat based and often higher in fat than dog treats. Many of them are fish based and smellier which is often why dogs are particularly drawn to them! Some cat treats may include other ingredients, for example catnip, which is included to have a calming effect and reduce stress. Catnip is generally considered to be safe for dogs but it doesn’t tend to affect them in the same way.

Dog treats on the other hand come in a wider variety of shapes and textures. Many are long lasting chews to satisfy a dog's need to chew. They are available in different sizes for different sized dog breeds. Cat treats are usually most similar to small dog training treats. Dog treats may contain a wider range of ingredients to fit with a dog’s omnivorous nature, such as vegetables and fruits.

Cat treats don’t usually contain ingredients that are outright toxic to dogs but always check the label as high fat treats or certain ingredients may not be safe for your individual dog, for example if they are prone to pancreatitis, suffer from food allergies or are on a weight loss program.

Are Cat Treats Safe for Dogs?

It's always a good idea to check the ingredient list of cat treats before giving any to your dog but In general, small amounts of cat treats are unlikely to pose an immediate threat to your dog's health. If your dog accidentally consumes a few cat treats, it's unlikely to result in severe consequences. However, cats have different nutritional needs to dogs and it's best to stick to treats specifically formulated for dogs.

How many Cat Treats Can My Dog Eat?

Although we don’t recommend making a habit of it, if your dog has one or two cat treats it is normally not a concern unless they have any allergies/intolerances to any of the ingredients.  If they manage to eat a large amount then monitor them for any gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting, diarrhoea or tummy pain. Always contact your vet for advice if you are worried.

Treats for either species are not nutritionally balanced and treats should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie allowance ( the same rule can be applied to cats and treats as well). Chew treats are often a good option for many dogs as they give longer lasting satisfaction rather than a small cat treat which will be gone in seconds!

Risks of Feeding Cat Treats Regularly to Dogs

Regular consumption of cat treats by dogs can lead to various health concerns. Cat treats tend to be higher in calories and fat to cater to a typical cat’s dietary needs, which can contribute to obesity in dogs if consumed regularly. Worldwide studies show that 59.3% of dogs are overweight or obese. Obesity can have serious health consequences for our canine companions, and is linked to many conditions including arthritis and a reduced life expectancy.

The composition of cat treats may also cause digestive upset in dogs, leading to diarrhea and vomiting. Due to the high fat content of cat treats, excessive consumption can also cause pancreatitis, which is a painful and potentially life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas.

Of course treats of any kind should not replace your dog’s high quality complete dog food or your dog will suffer from nutritional deficiencies, treats are not formulated to be nutritionally balanced.

Are There Treats That are Suitable for Dogs and Cats?

There are some commercial treats that will have safe ingredients for both dogs and cats but not all pet treats are the same. Small pieces of cooked meats such as fish or chicken are generally safe for both species as a treat. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on selecting appropriate treats and ensure they complement your pet's overall diet.

Conclusion

While dogs can eat cat treats, it is not recommended to feed them regularly.

To ensure your canine companion leads a healthy and balanced life, stick to treats specifically designed for dogs, and always consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns about their diet. Remember, a well-balanced diet and appropriate treats are essential for your dog's overall well-being and longevity!